Gender ambiguity was a tool of power 4,500 years ago in Mesopotamia Gender-ambiguous people in ancient Mesopotamia were powerful and important members of society more than four millennia ago. LiveScience · Jan 17
Not just ‘eunuchs’ or sex workers: in ancient Mesopotamia, gender-diverse people held positions of power Today, trans people face politicisation of their lives and vilification from politicians, media and parts of broader society. The Conversation · Jan 12
Spectacular find: Monumental images of gods discovered at Nineveh in Iraq 2,700 years ago, Nineveh was the capital of the Assyrian empire. Researchers from the University of Heidelberg have made a spectacular discovery in the palace of King Assurbanipal. During excavations, they came across the first large-format depictions of two important Assyrian deities. Euronews · May 18, 2025
Istar: Why Lord of the Rings' 'Rings of Power' Season 2 may feature a second wizard The Stranger might not be the only wizard in Middle-earth. Here's why 'The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power' Season 2 may add another Istar to the show's already sprawling ensemble cast. Inverse · Oct 19, 2022
What is an Istar in Lord of the Rings, explained One of The Rings of Power's main characters was confirmed to be an Istar, but what does that mean in Middle-earth? Total Film · Oct 14, 2022
Who is "Istar"? 'Rings of Power's biggest twist isn't what you think The Stranger is Gandalf — or is he? 'The Rings of Power' finale drops a huge clue by naming the character as "Istar," but it's not a done deal yet. Inverse · Oct 14, 2022