Author Description
The complex world of Egyptian myth is clearly illuminated in this fascinating new approach to ancient Egypt. Geraldine Pinch explores the cultural and historical background behind a wide variety of sources and objects, from Cleopatra's Needle and Tutankhamun's golden statue, to a story on papyrus of the gods misbehaving. What did they mean, and how have they been interpreted? The reader is taken on an exciting journey through the distant past, and shown how myths of deities such as Isis and Osiris influenced contemporary culture and have become part of our cultural heritage. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.
Menrva's Summary
THE THESIS
This book investigates the complex function, historical development, and enduring cultural legacy of ancient Egyptian mythology. Geraldine Pinch, an expert in Egyptology, utilizes a broad array of archaeological evidence, textual sources, and artistic artifacts to construct a framework for understanding how these myths operated within their original society. She argues that Egyptian myths were not static stories but dynamic tools used to explain the natural world, justify political power, and navigate the human experience.
THE SCOPE MAP
What You Will Find
- Analysis of primary sources including papyrus texts and monumental inscriptions
- Examination of major deities such as Isis, Osiris, and Ra
- Contextualization of myths within the broader historical and cultural landscape of ancient Egypt
- Discussion on the reception and interpretation of Egyptian myths in modern culture
Scope Limits
- Does not provide an exhaustive dictionary of every minor Egyptian deity
- Does not offer a comprehensive chronological history of Egypt outside of its mythological context
THE AUTHORITY PERSPECTIVE
Experts and readers frequently cite this work as a highly accessible and reliable entry point for those seeking a concise overview of Egyptian mythology. The text is noted for its ability to distill complex academic research into a format suitable for students and general readers alike.
Page Count:
153
Publication Date:
2004-01-01
Publisher:
OUP Oxford
ISBN-10:
0191577790
ISBN-13:
9780191577796
Religion
History
Mythology
Ancient Egypt