History of Ancient Egypt

by Erik Hornung

Book Overview

From our vantage point ancient Egyptian civilization, with its strictly hierarchic organization, can appear static through its three-thousand-year history. In his concise and authoritative introduction to that distant culture, a renowned Egyptologist reveals the turbulent events beneath the rigid facade. Erik Hornung begins his account by taking a brief look at the prehistoric era in Egypt. He then focuses on political events during the period...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0801484758
• ISBN13: 9780801484759
• Release Date: April 1999
• Publisher: Cornell University Press
• Length: 208 Pages
• Weight: 0.70 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 6.1" x 9.2"
• Age Range: 18 years and up
• Grade Range: Postsecondary and higher

Customer Reviews

Masterpiece of Egyptian study

This is a vivid chronological history of the civilization of ancient Egypt from its foundation some 5000 years ago to its conquest by Alexander the Great in 332 BCE - effectively the first half of written human history. It is based on Professor Hornung's unrivalled knowledge of archaeological and documentary evidence, and provides as straightforward a story as the varied nature and extent of that evidence allows. From 3050BCE through to around 642CE Egyptian culture developed and evolved, leaving the modern student with so much to decipher and understand that it might just take a lifetime! This book is ideal for anyone who wants to enrich their knowledge and understanding of Egyptian magick and religion through an understanding the history of this ancient culture. The book works through the different stages of cultural and political development in ancient Egypt, working from the Archaic period through the old, middle and new kingdoms and the late period. The Chronology at the start of the book provides an excellent time line reference guide. Both the author and translators are distinguished Egyptologists and this book is evidently the result of much research and work, and is as such highly recommended for all interested in history and particular Egyptology.

EXCELLENT HISTORY BOOK

Extremely well translated by American Egyptologist David Lorton, Hornung's book covers the history of Ancient Egypt from its Archaic to its Late Periods. It provides a concise description of important events through historical facts. A thorough yet brief explanation of political, economical, social, literary and artistical changes of Ancient Egyptian society leads to the development of the kingdoms. Black and white photographs, an excellent bibliography and a glossary explaining commonly used Egyptological terms accompany the main body. Recommended for professionals and amateurs.