Women In Ancient Egypt

Cover Type: Softcover
Book Condition: Fine
Jacket Condition: None Issued
Publisher: British Museum Press
Publisher Place: Uk
Publisher Year: 1996
Edition: Reprint

Description: 205 pages. Book appears to have hardly been read and is in Fine condition throughout.

Publishers Description: An idealised version of women appears everywhere in the art of ancient Egypt, but the true nature of these womens lives has long remained hidden. Robins book, gracefully written and copiously illustrated, cuts through the obscurity of the ages to show us what the archaeological riches of Egypt really say about how these women lived, both in the public eye and within the family.The art and written records of the time present a fascinating puzzle. But how often has the evidence been interpreted, consciously or otherwise, from a male viewpoint Robins conducts us through these sources with an archaeologists relish, stripping away layer after interpretive layer to expose the reality beneath. Here we see the everyday lives of women in the economic, legal, or domestic sphere, from the Early Dynastic Period almost 5,000 years ago to the conquest of Alexander in 332 B.C. Within this kingdom ruled and run by men, women could still wield influence indirectly•and in some cases directly, when a woman took the position of king. The exceptional few who assumed real power appear here in colorful detail, alongside their more traditional counterparts. Robins examines the queens reputed divinity and takes a frank look at the practice of incest within Egypts dynasties. She shows us the special role of women in religious rites and offices, and assesses their depiction in Egyptian art as it portrays their position in society.By drawing women back into the picture we have of ancient Egypt, this book opens a whole new perspective on one of world historys most exotic and familiar cultures.

ISBN: 9780714109565