ISIS Destroys Assyrian Art

ISIS militant shown destroying ancient Assyrian artwork in Mosul, Iraq. (The New York Times)

SUMMARY:  

A recent New York Times article reports on the, the actions of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) - an extremist middle eastern military group.  Towards the end of February, ISIS posted a video (CBS News) of militants destroying priceless Assyrian artifacts dating from the time of antiquity.  The recent actions taken are part of the group’s larger campaign against the modernization of  Iraq and Syria along with prejudices they have against the Shiite Muslim group. ISIS leaders explain their reasoning behind the destruction of the priceless artifacts claiming “those statues and idols weren't there at the time of the Prophet nor his companions.” Upon viewing the video, analysts believe that the group’s recent destruction is an effort to instigate western nations to fight.  However, this is not the first time ISIS has devalued historical artifacts in the name of extremist religious and political beliefs. The group has destroyed what they proclaim other “artifacts of  idolatry” - such as mosques and tombs - in addition to commodifying other invaluable  artifacts.  As if to summarize the thoughts of many, Syrian anthropologist Amar al-Azam noted the destruction is “a tragedy and catastrophic loss for Iraqi history and archaeology beyond comprehension...The whole world has lost this.”

ANALYSIS:

Upon reading the article and viewing the video, I was left speechless.  Clearly, the priceless Assyrian artifacts have been physically destroyed. Yet, my speechlessness has derived from the destruction and degradation  of the entire Assyrian christian culture. In the ancient world, during the height of power, the Assyrian civilization dominated for many centuries.  The culture’s  legacy was widespread as well.  Like many early civilizations, historians turn to artifacts and art to better understand its rich history; but the belligerent acts of  ISIS managed to destroy evidence of the Assyrian history within mere minutes. As I am a current student in Art History, my  sentiments towards the demolished art is biased. Having studied and seen ancient Assyrian art, I am devastated to know that my children will see only the remnants left - if any - of the art. In the past, art has been a target for political strife, ISIS’s destruction demonstrates that such a tactic is still implemented today.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1. What is your initial reaction to ISIS destruction of these artifacts?
2. In what ways can countries preserve their history? Should they preserve their historical artifacts?
3. If you were a leader of a western nation, would this event prompt you to be more inclined in negotiating with ISIS?