Recovering Carthage: An Interview with Richard Miles

Recent archaeological research has significantly advanced our understanding of ancient Carthage, revealing it as a vibrant cultural and economic hub within the trans-Mediterranean context. Contrary to traditional narratives, Carthage was not merely a maritime power but a complex society that interacted extensively with diverse Mediterranean cultures, including Etruscans, Samnites, Iberians, Syrians, and others. This shift in perspective, supported by extensive excavations from the mid-1970s to the mid-2000s, sheds light on Carthage's religious, social, and economic structures. Notably, Rome's rise as a naval power during the Punic Wars was achieved through innovative tactics like the use of the 'corvus,' a device that allowed Roman marines to board enemy ships, ultimately leading to Rome's dominance in the Mediterranean.

Yerxa, D. A., & Miles, R. (2011). Recovering Carthage: An Interview with Richard Miles. Historically Speaking, 12(4), 37–38. https://doi.org/10.1353/hsp.2011.0048