Signs of Carthage. Carthaginian self-representation on stelae and coinage.

Abstract

Based on an analysis of the iconography of Carthaginian stelae and coinage, it has been argued that the Carthaginians maintained a conception of identity that was both distinct from and continuous with the Phoenician homeland. Furthermore, it has been argued that the emphasis within this conception of identity could shift based on context or necessity: in religious contexts continuity with the Phoenician traditions was emphasized, while in political and military context a distinct Carthaginian identity was emphasized.