History Extra podcast
Ancient Egypt | 2. everyday life
Aug 28, 2024
Join Egyptologist Campbell Price as he unpacks the everyday life of ancient Egyptians. Discover where they shopped for food and the surprising use of crocodile dung in healing practices. Explore family structures, romantic relationships, and the dynamics of childhood in this fascinating society. Delve into leisure activities, like the board game Sennet, and learn about their unique work week and diverse occupations. Price paints a vivid picture of life along the Nile, revealing the rich tapestry of social roles and cultural practices.
47:02
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Quick takeaways
- Ancient Egyptian daily life revolved around agriculture, with the Nile's resources supporting a largely farming-based economy and community structure.
- Family dynamics were essential in social organization, where women held autonomy and ancestral worship was integral to cultural practices.
Deep dives
Life of Ordinary Ancient Egyptians
The majority of ordinary ancient Egyptians were farmers, living in homes made of mud bricks near the fertile banks of the Nile. Agriculture was central to their way of life, with the Nile providing the vital resources for farming and sustaining communities. Most ancient Egyptians worked the land, with estimates suggesting that around 80-90% were engaged in agriculture, while the elite often received more attention in historical records, leaving gaps in understanding the lives of the average person. Archaeological evidence is limited due to the annual flooding of the Nile and the fragile nature of mud brick homes, making it challenging to gain a comprehensive view of everyday life.
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