First published 2017
Ancient Egypt captivates us through its hieroglyphic writing system, which remained unsolved until scholars cracked it in the 1820s. Toby Wilkinson presents newly translated texts that survived on stone carvings and papyrus scrolls. These writings reveal the inner workings of one of humanity's most mysterious civilizations. The collection spans diverse forms including battle accounts, religious hymns, narrative stories, and royal proclamations. Each text opens a window into Egyptian culture, from military campaigns to spiritual beliefs to political power. Wilkinson's translations make these ancient voices accessible to modern readers. The hieroglyphic writings offer direct access to Egyptian thoughts, fears, ambitions, and daily concerns across centuries of history.
Genres: history, archaeology, non-fiction, ancient-history
Vibes: intimate, lyrical, thought-provoking
Tropes: historical-nonfiction, window-into-the-past
Setting: Egypt
Period: Ancient
372 pages · Paperback · Penguin Classics