It is easy to look at Jonah as a failure and completely sold to rebellion. I won't tell you that that isn't a fair assessment but I will say that assessment might be missing some context. This context does not absolve Jonah or clear him of his rebellious actions but it does give a unique look and maybe understanding of his decisions. 

https://www.worldhistory.org/nineveh/ 

https://www.nationalgeographic.org/encyclopedia/assyrian-empire/ 

https://tyndalehouse.com/explore/articles/the-black-obelisk/ 

https://medium.com/lessons-from-history/assyrians-torture-60fabb7a9642