I’m a writer, translator and cultural historian
I work on ancient literature, especially the Babylonian epics. But my interests range widely, from the oldest known poems to the latest pop culture
Gilgamesh
My book on Gilgamesh, which includes a new English translation, has been described as “a dazzling work of scholarship” and “a fresh and vital translation.”
My Danish translation of Gilgamesh was hailed by reviewers as “one of those miracles that makes life worth living.”
Myths
My book for Thames & Hudson’s illustrated Myths series takes the reader on a rollicking journey through two thousands years of Babylonian literature.
While the book is aimed at a broader audience, it also includes brand-new discoveries in the field of Assyriology that help us bring the ancient past to new life.
Human
In my latest academic book, I delve into the Old Babylonian epic Atra-hasis, a history of humanity focused on work.
The poem – and my book about it – explores a range of surprisingly modern themes, including class warfare, disability, artificial intelligence and catastrophic climate change.
Enheduana
My second book was about Enheduana, the world’s first known author: a high priestess who lived more than 4,000 years ago.
My English translation of her collected poems was reviewed glowingly in both the London Review of Books and the Times Literary Supplement.
LBL
I am the managing editor of the Library of Babylonian Literature, a book series that seeks to make the classic works of Babylonian poetry more accessible.
Each poem is presented in a facing-page translation with a rich introduction and accompanying essays by leading scholars.
Mythos
In the Danish podcast Mythos, I team up with journalist Lauge Hendrinksen to explore myths from all over the world.
We explore both the forgotten sides of famous myths like Ragnarok and Atlantis, and lesser-known stories like Setne Khamwase and the Huldra from the Faroe Islands.