Aristocrats (among Hebrews and Greeks) often had harems that included women of common or even servile origin, as well as well-born aristocratic ladies. Normally, the successors would be chosen from the sons born by ladies; but on occasion those born by servile or common wives achieved the ascendency. In the latter case, tradition could dwell on the phenomenon as "worthy of saga."

— Cyrus H. Gordon The Common Background of Greek and Hebrew Civilizations (1965)

More quotes by Cyrus H. Gordon

Adventures in the Nearest East (1957)

The Common Background of Greek and Hebrew Civilizations (1965)

Adventures in the Nearest East (1957)

The Common Background of Greek and Hebrew Civilizations (1965)

The Common Background of Greek and Hebrew Civilizations (1965)

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