Dr. Carolina López Ruiz

Biography

Carolina López-Ruiz studies ancient Mediterranean cultures through textual and archaeological sources, focusing on comparative mythology, especially cosmogonies and narratives of gods from Northwest Semitic and Greek traditions. Her research addresses cultural exchanges in the ancient Mediterranean, particularly the intersections of Greek and Phoenician cultures and their influence in ancient Iberia. López-Ruiz proposes that mythological narratives and religious practices serve as loci for cultural exchange, enabling groups in close contact to negotiate tensions and adapt, thus bolstering resilience. She has published extensively on these themes, providing a multicultural perspective in the study of ancient Mediterranean histories and religions. Her significant publications include "Gods Born: Greek Cosmogonies and the Near East" and the anthology "Gods, Heroes, Monsters: Sourcebook of Greek, Roman, and Near Eastern Myths." She has also co-edited four volumes that advance the field of Phoenician studies. Her most recent monograph, "Phoenicians Making the Mediterranean," challenges the Hellenocentric framework of ancient scholarship, highlighting Phoenician cultural agency. In addition to her research, she teaches courses on classical mythology and ancient Mediterranean religions.

Research Interests

Experience

Awards