An Introduction to Ugaritic

In this new work, An Introduction to Ugaritic, John Huehnergard has drawn on his vast research in Ugaritic and other Semitic languages to produce a superb, student-friendly textbook of the Ugaritic language. The sketch of Ugaritic grammar is first-rate. It is provided with vocalizations of Ugaritic words as well as paradigms throughout (which are nicely consolidated in an appendix). A particular helpful feature of the grammar is the listing of noun-types and stem-vowels for verbs. Huehnergard's attention to student needs is particularly evident in his chapter on basic vocabulary and English to Ugaritic practice exercises, which will help beginning learners make the transition from the grammar to reading texts. Fourteen texts drawn from different genres are accompanied by 44 color photographs and complemented by a glossary that provides cognates from other languages. Other notable features include the description of the alphabetic script (especially by John L. Ellison in an appendix); comparisons with grammatical features in other languages (especially Biblical Hebrew); keys to the exercises and the texts selected for reading; and fine listings of bibliographical resources. This work is most highly recommended; it is a "must-have" book for Ugaritic studies. - Mark S. Smith, Skirball Professor of Bible and Ancient Near Eastern Studies, New York University