Stuff You Should Know SYSK Selects: How the Rosetta Stone Works
Aug 1, 2020
Discover the captivating story of the Rosetta Stone, the key to unlocking ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics. Learn about the historical intrigue and rivalry between British and French scholars that spurred the translation efforts. The impact of this artifact on Egyptology reveals fascinating insights into culture and civilization. Delve into its journey and the ongoing debates about ownership and preservation. The episode also highlights the thrill of linguistic breakthroughs and the luck involved in the stone's discovery.
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Ancient vs. Modern Egypt Knowledge
- Westerners likely know more about ancient Egypt than modern Egypt.
- Egyptology, the study of ancient Egypt, emerged in the early 19th century thanks to the Rosetta Stone.
Rosetta Stone's Purpose
- The Rosetta Stone is not a dictionary of hieroglyphics.
- It's a government decree praising Ptolemy V, inscribed in 196 BC.
Hieroglyphics vs. Demotic
- Hieroglyphics were sacred, used for important religious texts.
- Demotic, a shorthand version, served everyday purposes.