18. Egypt - Fall of the Pharaohs

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Feb 1, 2024

Journey through the captivating landscape of ancient Egypt, uncovering the secrets of the Nile and the monumental pyramids. Discover ingenious hunting techniques and the cultural significance of sacred animals. Explore the chaotic decline of central authority and the devastating Great Famine that gripped the Old Kingdom. Witness the rise of powerful rulers, the innovative military strategies of Taharqa, and the cultural transformations post-Cleopatra. This exploration underscores the ephemerality of power in the grand tapestry of history.

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ANECDOTE

al-Baghdadi's Egypt

In 1200 AD, al-Baghdadi toured Egypt, marveling at its monuments.
He was awestruck by the pyramids of Giza, especially their size.

INSIGHT

Kingdoms of Egypt

Ancient Egypt lasted 3,000 years, with 31 dynasties.
Historians categorize this into Old, Middle, and New Kingdoms, plus intermediate periods.

INSIGHT

The Nile's Significance

The Nile, flowing from Lake Victoria, is Egypt's lifeblood.
Egypt's arid climate makes the Nile crucial for survival.

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Account of Egypt

The Book of Edification and Admonition

Tim Mackintosh-Smith

ʿAbd al-Laṭīf al-Baghdādī

ʿAbd al-Laṭīf al-Baghdādī's 'Account of Egypt' is a seminal work that provides a vivid description of Egypt during the late twelfth century, including a detailed eyewitness account of a severe famine. The book is significant for its blend of scientific observation and historical insight. Tim Mackintosh-Smith is involved in a new edition and translation of this work.

Tempest Stela

Ancient Egyptian Monument

Robert Ritner

Nadine Moeller

Ralph Ellis

The Tempest Stela is a significant archaeological find from the reign of Pharaoh Ahmose I, detailing a catastrophic storm that may be connected to the volcanic eruption of Thera. It has been interpreted in various contexts, including its potential relation to biblical narratives and its impact on ancient chronology.

The Myth of Telepinu

Hittite God of Fertility

No specific author found

The myth of Telepinu is a Hittite legend that describes how the god's disappearance causes all fertility to fail, leading to a barren world. The myth involves a search by various gods and a bee to find Telepinu and restore fertility to the land. It reflects themes of agriculture and the cycles of nature.

Pepi's Letter to Harkhuf

Historical Letter from Pharaoh Pepi II

Pharaoh Pepi II

The letter from Pharaoh Pepi II to Harkhuf is a significant historical document from the Old Kingdom period. It highlights the importance of Harkhuf's expeditions and the desire of the pharaoh to acquire a pygmy for entertainment purposes. This letter is one of the few complete royal letters from that era and provides insight into the personal interests of the pharaoh.

Manetho

the historian Manetho

Manetho's 'Aegyptiaca' is a foundational work in understanding ancient Egyptian history, particularly through its division of rulers into dynasties. Although the original text has not survived, fragments preserved by other historians like Josephus and Eusebius remain crucial for scholars studying Egyptian chronology. Manetho's work aimed to correct errors in Greek histories, such as those by Herodotus, and to introduce Egyptian history and culture to the Mediterranean world.

The Red Sea Scrolls

How Ancient Papyri Reveal the Secrets of the Pyramids

Mark Lehner

Pierre Tallet

This book explores the discovery of the Red Sea scrolls, including the Diary of Merer, which provides insights into the construction of the Great Pyramid of Khufu. It combines archaeological findings with historical context to shed new light on ancient Egyptian civilization.

Papyrus Lansing

H. O. Lange

Adolf Erman

Papyrus Lansing is an important Egyptian school manuscript from the 20th dynasty, studied and published by Adolf Erman and Hermann Otto Lange. It provides insights into the educational practices and literary traditions of ancient Egypt during that period.

Great Hymn to the Aten

A Hymn to the Sun by Akhenaten

Akhenaten

The Great Hymn to the Aten is a significant piece of ancient Egyptian literature, reflecting the religious reforms of Pharaoh Akhenaten. It is attributed to Akhenaten or his courtiers and provides insight into the monotheistic or henotheistic beliefs of the Amarna period.

Hittite Prayers

Including the Plague Prayers of Mursili II

Itamar Singer and Harry A. Hoffner

The Hittite prayers, including the Plague Prayers of Mursili II, provide a window into the religious and cultural practices of the ancient Hittite civilization. These texts, often preserved on clay tablets, reflect the Hittites' belief in divine intervention and their efforts to appease gods during times of crisis, such as plagues.

The Admonitions of Ipuwer

Also known as The Papyrus Ipuwer and The Admonitions of an Egyptian Sage

Ipuwer

The Admonitions of Ipuwer is a significant ancient Egyptian literary work, dated to the Middle Kingdom, which vividly portrays a chaotic Egypt where social norms are inverted and disaster prevails. It is often compared to biblical accounts, such as the Exodus, due to its descriptions of calamities like the Nile turning to blood. However, scholars generally view it as a work of the 'national disaster' genre rather than a historical account.

Poem of Pentaur

The Battle of Kadesh

Ancient Egyptian Scribes

The Poem of Pentaur is one of the primary Egyptian sources detailing the Battle of Kadesh, focusing on Ramesses II's bravery and divine intervention. It is often considered alongside the Bulletin as a key historical account of this pivotal battle.

Instruction to Merikare

A Didactic Text on Kingship

Kheti III

The Instruction to Merikare is a significant literary composition from ancient Egypt, providing advice on how to be a good king and maintain order. It emphasizes the importance of upholding Maat, the right world order, and reflects on the responsibilities and challenges of ruling. The text is known from fragmentary papyri and is considered a treatise on kingship, offering insights into ancient Egyptian political and moral philosophy.

The Royal Inscriptions of Ashurbanipal

Kings of Assyria, Part 1

Joshua Jeffers

Jamie Novotny

This book provides updated editions of seventy-one historical inscriptions of Ashurbanipal, including translations and commentary. It is a fundamental resource for studying the reign of Ashurbanipal and the Neo-Assyrian Empire.

The Battle of Kadesh

A Novel

Christian Jacq

This novel by Christian Jacq explores the historical context of the Battle of Kadesh, a pivotal conflict between the Egyptians and Hittites. It is part of Jacq's Ramses series, which fictionalizes the life of Pharaoh Ramses II. The book delves into the politics and intrigue surrounding the battle and its impact on the ancient world.

Harkhuf the First Explorer

A Historical Fiction Adventure

Laura Steel-Marshall

This book tells the story of Harkhuf, a legendary explorer from ancient Egypt, as he embarks on perilous journeys into Nubia. It combines elements of legend and quest, aimed at readers of all ages. The story follows Harkhuf's adventures and his role in saving the Black Land from drought.

Fall of Civilizations

Paul Cooper

Paul Cooper's 'Fall of Civilizations' delves into the stories of great empires like Sumeria, Assyria, Rome, and others, examining their ascension to power and eventual collapse. The book offers a comprehensive view of historical events, weaving together archaeological findings and contemporary perspectives to highlight the complex factors leading to the downfall of these civilizations. It serves as a cautionary tale for modern societies, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices and resilience.

Taharqa Inscription

No specific subtitle available

No specific author available

Taharqa was a significant figure in ancient Egypt, known for his contributions to Egyptian culture and his conflicts with the Assyrians. His inscriptions provide valuable insights into his reign and the cultural integration of Egypt and Kush. However, no specific book titled 'Taharqa Inscription' was found.

Tales of wonder

H. G. Wells

Tales of Wonder is a collection of short stories written by H.G. Wells, initially published in magazines around the same time as his landmark scientific romances. The book includes a variety of tales that showcase Wells' imaginative storytelling.

Medieval Arab Account

Not Available

The search results did not provide information about a book titled 'Medieval Arab Account'. If you have more details or a different title, please provide them for a more accurate search.

Harper's Song

Devil's Nightmare MC Next Generation, Book 3

Lena Bourne

Harper's Song is a biker romance novel that follows the story of Jax and Harper, who have been in love for a long time despite the disapproval from Harper's father, a high-ranking member of the Devil's Nightmare MC. The story unfolds with Jax in prison and Harper deciding to go on tour alone, leading to a series of heart-wrenching events. The novel explores themes of love, loyalty, and danger within the motorcycle club world.

The Carnarvon Tablet

Bill Petty

This book, 'The Carnarvon Tablet: Site Notes #1', is written by Bill Petty and likely provides insights or notes related to the historical context or archaeological aspects of the Carnarvon Tablet. However, specific details about the book's content are not available.

Herodotus

G. C. Macaulay

Herodotus's Histories is considered a foundational work of history, offering a detailed account of the Greco-Persian Wars. It blends historical narrative with ethnographic observations, providing insights into the cultures and customs of various ancient societies. Herodotus's approach, often described as 'inquiry,' involved gathering information from diverse sources and presenting multiple perspectives. His work is celebrated for its vivid storytelling and enduring influence on historical writing. The Histories remains a valuable source for understanding the ancient world and the development of historical methodology.

Searching for the Lost Tunes of Egypt

Chris Norton

The Book of Edification and Admonition

Things Eye-Witnessed and Events Personally Observed in the Land of Egypt

ʿAbd al-Laṭīf al-Baghdādī

ʿAbd al-Laṭīf al-Baghdādī's book provides a vivid description of Egypt during a severe famine caused by the Nile's failure to flood. It includes eyewitness accounts of extreme hardship and cannibalism, serving as both a scientific report and a moral admonition. The work is significant for its blend of empirical observation and historical documentation.

No specific book found

Rachel Louise Snyder

Rachel Louise Snyder is a prominent author and journalist, but there is no widely recognized book titled 'Trust: How the Great Recession Changed the American Dream' associated with her. Her notable works include 'No Visible Bruises' and 'Fugitive Denim', which focus on social justice and human rights issues.

Writings from Ancient Egypt

Edward Wente

The Tale of Sinuhe

R. B. Parkinson

The teachings of Ptahhotep

Ptahhotep.

The Teachings of Ptahhotep, also known as The Maxims of Ptahhotep, is an ancient Egyptian literary work that provides guidance on moral behavior and social conduct. It is considered one of the oldest surviving books in the world and offers wisdom on topics such as humility, truthfulness, and kindness. The text was written as a guide for young men, including Ptahhotep's son, who was to succeed him as vizier.

History of Ancient Egypt

Mark van de Mieroop

The Oxford history of ancient Egypt

Ian Shaw

The Rise and Fall of Ancient Egypt

Toby Wilkinson

In this landmark work, Toby Wilkinson tells the epic story of ancient Egypt, spanning three thousand years from its unification under the first pharaoh, Narmer, to its final absorption into the Roman Empire. The book delves into the lives of legendary leaders such as Akhenaten, Tutankhamun, and the pharaohs called Ramesses, and explores the complexities of state power, propaganda, and repression that underpinned the Egyptian civilization. Wilkinson draws upon forty years of archaeological research to provide a detailed and nuanced account of the rise and fall of this great civilization, including its political intrigues, social structures, and cultural achievements.

Histories

Herodotus

The Histories by Herodotus is a foundational work in Western historical literature. It chronicles the Greco-Persian Wars (499–479 BCE) and provides a comprehensive background on the rise and organization of the Persian Empire. The work is divided into nine books, each named after one of the Muses. Herodotus describes the conflicts between the Greeks and Persians, including key battles such as Marathon, Thermopylae, Salamis, Plataea, and Mycale. He also delves into the cultural, ethnographical, geographical, and historiographical aspects of the civilizations involved, offering a rich tapestry of historical and mythological narratives. Despite some criticisms for including legendary accounts, much of Herodotus's work has been validated by modern historians and archaeologists[1][2][3].

Ozymandias

John Ott

Percy Bysshe Shelley

Published in 1818, 'Ozymandias' is one of Shelley's most famous short works. The poem describes a ruined statue of Ozymandias (Ramses II of Egypt) with the inscription 'Look on my Works, ye Mighty, and despair!' and contrasts the grandeur of the past with the desolation of the present. The illustrated version by John Ott Jr. includes unique illustrations that breathe new life into the poem.

Exodus

Leon Uris

The novel 'Exodus' by Leon Uris is a historical fiction account that explores the establishment of the state of Israel in 1948. It follows the stories of Jewish refugees, many of whom are Holocaust survivors, as they attempt to reach Palestine despite British opposition. The book delves into the back stories of its characters, the history of Jewish settlement in Palestine, and the broader political context of the time, including the struggle for independence and the conflicts between Jewish and Arab populations.

Ancient Egyptian literature

Miriam Lichtheim

Parallel Lives

Plutarch

John Dryden

Plutarch's 'Parallel Lives' is a collection of 48 biographies of renowned men, divided into 23 pairs of one Greek and one Roman, along with four unpaired biographies. Written at the beginning of the second century AD, the work aims to explore the influence of character on the lives and destinies of these historical figures. Plutarch's focus is ethical, intending to illustrate which actions are noble and how character shapes the lives of individuals. The biographies are structured to facilitate comparisons between the Greek and Roman subjects, highlighting their common moral virtues and failings[1][4][5].