PDF Summary:24 Hours in Ancient Egypt, by Donald P. Ryan

Dive into the fascinating world of ancient Egypt in 24 Hours in Ancient Egypt by Donald P. Ryan. This fictional yet historically grounded book takes you on a vivid journey through the religious beliefs, power structures, military campaigns, and daily lives that shaped this extraordinary civilization.

From the grandeur of opulent festivals and royal palaces to the harsh realities of manual labor and conscripted service, Ryan meticulously recreates the complex tapestry of ancient Egyptian society. Explore the central role of deities like Amun-Re and Hathor, the divine authority of pharaohs like Amenhotep II, and the meticulous rituals surrounding mummification and the journey to the afterlife.

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• The vizier managed the collection of taxes, which were often paid in goods rather than currency. This system was crucial for funding state projects and supporting the economy, as taxes were collected from farmers, craftsmen, and traders.
• In ancient Egyptian culture, fulfilling one's role with diligence was seen as a moral obligation. This cultural value would have reinforced Amenemopet's commitment to his work.
• The vastness of Egypt, with its diverse regions and distant territories, contributed to the volume of reports. Each region had its own local issues and developments that required the vizier's oversight and decision-making.
• Throughout Egyptian history, there are examples of viziers who wielded significant power due to their close ties with the pharaoh, such as Imhotep under Djoser, who was also an architect and priest.
• Strong personal bonds between leaders and their advisors could lead to more cohesive and efficient governance, as mutual trust facilitated smoother decision-making and implementation of policies.
• Amenemopet would have supervised a vast network of scribes and officials, ensuring that records were kept accurately and that the bureaucracy functioned smoothly.
• In ancient Egypt, land was a crucial resource, often tied to agricultural productivity and economic stability. Resolving land disputes was essential to maintain social harmony and ensure that agricultural activities could proceed without interruption.

The Luxurious Lifestyle and Status-Consciousness of the Upper Class

This section focuses on the luxurious lives of Egypt's elite, particularly those close to the pharaoh. Ryan underscores the stark contrast between their opulent world and the hardships faced by the common people, showing a society keenly aware of social hierarchies and the privileges they bestowed.

The Splendor of Palaces and Luxurious Possessions

The author describes the royal residence of Amenhotep II as a showcase of opulence and grandeur, a symbol of Egypt's wealth and power. The author paints a vibrant picture of the daily life of the king, encompassing luxurious furnishings, the finest foods and wines, and even exotic pets, including baboons allowed to roam freely within the palace. This depiction highlights the pharaoh’s access to the finest luxuries, a testament to his divine status and the kingdom's prosperity.

Ryan also showcases the lavish possessions of the wealthy through descriptions of their residences, furniture, and attire. The author notes their appreciation for imported materials like cedarwood and ebony, used in crafting elegantly made goods for both daily use and burial purposes. The author draws a clear distinction between the wealthy's ability to enjoy these luxuries and the simple lives of most Egyptians, underscoring the social and economic disparities within the kingdom.

Context

• The opulence of the palace was supported by Egypt's control over valuable resources and trade routes, including gold from Nubia and goods from the Near East.
• The stark contrast between the king's opulence and the common people's simplicity highlights the rigid social hierarchy. The pharaoh and the elite enjoyed privileges far beyond the reach of ordinary citizens.
• Exotic animals, such as baboons, were not only symbols of wealth but also held religious significance. Baboons, for example, were associated with Thoth, the god of wisdom, and their presence in the palace could symbolize the pharaoh's wisdom and divine favor.
• Wealthy Egyptians often lived in large, elaborately designed homes with multiple rooms and courtyards, reflecting their social status and providing space for entertaining guests.
• Beyond their practical uses, cedarwood and ebony held cultural significance. Cedar was often linked to longevity and protection, while ebony was prized for its deep, rich color, symbolizing purity and eternity in Egyptian culture.
• Luxurious items in both daily life and burials symbolized not only personal wealth but also the favor of the gods. Possessing such items was seen as a sign of divine blessing and social prestige.
• Urban centers like Thebes and Memphis were hubs of wealth and luxury, while rural areas were more modest, with most people living in simple mud-brick homes and relying on local resources.
• The construction of palaces and tombs required massive labor forces, often composed of lower-class workers, illustrating the reliance of the elite on the labor of the less privileged.

Royal Politics: The Social Climb and Marriage of Tiaa

Ryan offers an intriguing glimpse into royal politics through Queen Tiaa's tale. The author portrays her as strategic and ambitious, determined to secure her position among the royals and safeguard her future. Ryan describes Tiaa as being conscious of the precedent set by Hatshepsut, the female pharaoh whose memory was being actively erased by Amenhotep II. Tiaa's desire for a burial site among royalty, her insistence on being the sole wife, and her attempts to influence Amenhotep II's decisions highlight her astute awareness of power dynamics and the strategies she employed to navigate them.

Context

• The Egyptian court was a complex web of alliances and rivalries. Tiaa's actions demonstrate her understanding of these dynamics and her ability to navigate them to her advantage.
• Hatshepsut was one of the few female pharaohs and ruled as king. Her reign was marked by prosperity and monumental building projects, but later pharaohs attempted to erase her from history, which may have influenced Tiaa's actions.
• Amenhotep II, the son of Thutmose III, continued his father's policies and was known for his military prowess. His actions against Hatshepsut's memory were part of a broader strategy to reinforce his legitimacy and the traditional male lineage.
• Egyptians believed that the afterlife was a continuation of one's earthly life. A burial site among royalty would ensure Tiaa's continued prominence and favor in the afterlife, reflecting her earthly status.
• By being the sole wife, Tiaa could ensure a more stable line of succession for her offspring, reducing the risk of rival claims from children of other wives, which was a common issue in royal families.
• In ancient Egypt, royal wives often played significant roles in political and dynastic affairs. They could influence decisions through their proximity to the pharaoh and their involvement in court politics.

Military Life and Warfare

This section explores the military's function in maintaining and expanding the Egyptian kingdom's empire, highlighting both the organizational structure and the personal experiences of those who participated in foreign campaigns.

Other Perspectives

• Overemphasis on military expansion can neglect the internal development of the kingdom, potentially leading to societal issues and internal dissent.
• Cultural and societal support for the military can play a critical role in its success, independent of its organizational structure.

The Organization and Tactics of the Egyptian Army

Ryan portrays Egypt's army as a highly organized and disciplined force, capable of undertaking complex military operations far beyond the kingdom's borders. He highlights the pharaoh's role as the top commander, often delegating responsibilities to a son, and the hierarchical structure that governed the forces.

Importance of Chariots, Archers, and Infantry in Combat

The author emphasizes the significance of chariot warfare in Egypt's military strategy, describing the devastating impact of charioteers who combined speed, mobility, and archery skills to disrupt enemy formations and inflict heavy casualties. Ryan notes the special training required for both the charioteers and the animals, highlighting their elite status within the army.

Ryan also discusses the vital roles played by bowmen and infantry, their training focusing on close combat with swords, hatchets, and other bladed weapons. These troops formed the backbone of Egypt's army, providing both offensive power and defensive strength during campaigns. The author emphasizes how crucial scribes were in documenting provisions, losses, and the distribution of booty, revealing the intricate logistical work needed to sustain a large and mobile force.

Other Perspectives

• Chariots were vulnerable to anti-chariot tactics, such as the use of obstacles, pits, or specialized infantry formations, which could neutralize their impact on the battlefield.
• The elite status of charioteers might have been a result of social or political factors, rather than their military effectiveness, with charioteering possibly being a profession associated with nobility or wealth.
• It fails to consider the importance of defensive tactics and fortifications, which could negate the advantages of infantry in close combat if the enemy was well-entrenched or behind strong defenses.
• The statement does not account for the contribution of allied and mercenary forces, which could have played a significant role in some of Egypt's military campaigns.
• The role of scribes, though crucial, should not overshadow the contributions of other non-combat personnel such as blacksmiths, medics, and cooks, who also played key roles in sustaining an army.

The Brutality and Plunder of Overseas Conquests

Ryan provides a vivid account of the brutality of ancient warfare, describing how Egypt's forces systematically destroyed enemy cities and towns, took prisoners, and accumulated large quantities of booty. The author recounts instances of Amenhotep the Second's ruthless acts, such as personally executing enemy chiefs and displaying their bodies to instill fear and deter future rebellion.

The author also details the economic benefits of conquest, highlighting the influx of gold, livestock, slaves, and valuable goods that flowed into Egypt due to successful campaigns. These riches replenished government finances, supported ambitious building projects, and enriched the elite's lifestyles.

Context

• Successful military campaigns helped consolidate the pharaoh's power internally by demonstrating strength and securing loyalty from nobles and officials.
• Captured prisoners could be used as diplomatic tools. They might be exchanged for Egyptian captives or used to negotiate peace treaties, serving as a means to maintain or restore political stability.
• The promise of booty was a powerful motivator for soldiers, often used as an incentive to encourage participation in military campaigns.
• Executing enemy leaders was a common tactic in ancient warfare to destabilize opposition forces by removing their leadership and creating a power vacuum.
• Continuous military campaigns necessitated advancements in military technology and strategy, which could improve Egypt's defensive capabilities and ensure long-term security against potential threats.
• The influx of foreign goods and people influenced Egyptian culture, introducing new ideas, technologies, and practices that were integrated into society.
• Conquered territories often became vassal states, paying regular tribute to Egypt, which further contributed to the state's financial stability and ongoing revenue.
• Many building projects were religious in nature, intended to honor the gods and ensure the pharaoh's place in the afterlife, reflecting the deep connection between conquest, wealth, and spiritual beliefs.
• The influx of resources from conquests allowed the elite to engage in patronage, supporting artisans, craftsmen, and laborers. This not only stimulated the economy but also reinforced the social order by creating dependencies.

The Experiences of the Veteran Soldier, Merimose

Ryan offers a personal perspective on military life through the character of Merimose, a retired soldier haunted by his recollections of combat. The author uses Merimose to convey the dedication, camaraderie, and trauma associated with prolonged service in Egypt's military.

Recollections of Battles and Camaraderie in Military Service

Ryan illustrates the thrill of adventure and the sense of camaraderie experienced by soldiers during campaigns. The author recounts memories from Merimose of participating in Thutmose III's campaigns, including the epic siege at Megiddo, showcasing the ingenuity and patience required for victory.

The author describes the pride that the troops took in their fighting skills, their dedication to their comrades, and the respect they held for their leaders. In Merimose's reminiscences, Ryan captures the intensity of combat, the exhilaration of victory, and the lasting bonds forged between those who fought alongside each other.

Context

• Soldiers in ancient Egypt were not only warriors but also held significant social status. They were often rewarded with land, wealth, and titles, which elevated their position in society.
• The siege of Megiddo involved advanced military strategies for the time, including the use of encirclement and cutting off supplies to force the city into submission.
• Military training camps were places where soldiers lived and trained together, creating a strong sense of brotherhood. This environment fostered mutual respect and reliance, essential for survival and success in battle.
• Victories in battle were celebrated and recorded in various forms, such as inscriptions and monuments, highlighting their importance in Egyptian culture and history.

Struggle to Adjust to Civilian Life After Retirement

Ryan portrays the challenges faced by veteran soldiers as they come back home after years of service. Merimose's struggles to adjust to a peaceful life, his recurring battle nightmares, and his physical ailments resulting from injuries sustained in combat highlight the lasting psychological and physical toll of warfare.

The author suggests that, despite the difficulties, Merimose finds solace in the respect he receives from his community, his stories of heroic deeds and exotic encounters acting as a source of both entertainment and inspiration for younger people.

Context

• Injuries sustained during service could lead to chronic pain or disability, impacting their ability to work and participate in community life, further complicating their reintegration.
• Unlike modern veterans, ancient soldiers had limited access to organized support systems or rehabilitation programs, relying instead on family and community for assistance and understanding.
• While not always guaranteed, some veterans received economic support from the state or local leaders, which could enhance their status and respect within the community.
• For Merimose, sharing his experiences could serve as a form of therapy, helping him process his wartime experiences and find meaning in his post-military life.

Life for Farmers and Manual Laborers

This section explores the lives of agricultural workers and those in other manual labor occupations, emphasizing the physically demanding nature of their work and their essential role in sustaining life in Egypt. Ryan contrasts their experiences with the privileged existence of the upper class, illustrating the stark inequalities within the kingdom.

Farming Challenges and Ease in the Basin of the Nile

Ryan emphasizes the significance of the river in shaping Egyptian agriculture, describing the annual cycle of flooding, planting, and harvesting that governed the lives of most Egyptians. He highlights the fertility of the Nile Valley and the relative ease with which farmers could cultivate crops like emmer wheat and barley, the staples of bread and beer production.

The Annual Cycle of Flooding, Planting, and Gathering Crops

Ryan meticulously details the yearly routine of a farmer, explaining how the river's inundation renewed the land, depositing rich silt that fertilized the fields. He describes the farmers' work preparing the land, sowing seeds, and tirelessly maintaining irrigation channels to ensure a bountiful harvest. Ryan also notes the farmers' reliance on animal labor, employing oxen to pull plows and cattle, sheep, pigs, or asses to trample seeds into the ground.

Context

• The regular flooding helped prevent soil salinization, a common problem in arid regions, by flushing out salts and maintaining soil fertility over centuries.
• Common crops included emmer wheat and barley, which were staples of the Egyptian diet and essential for making bread and beer.
• Farmers used simple tools like wooden plows and hoes, often drawn by animals, to prepare the fields for sowing.
• A successful harvest was vital for the economy, as it supported not only the local population but also trade. Surplus crops could be stored or traded, contributing to the wealth and stability of the region.
• Animals were valuable assets for farmers, representing a significant investment. They were often a measure of wealth and status within the community.
• Training oxen to pull plows involves teaching them to respond to commands and work in pairs, which requires skill and patience from the farmer.
• The agricultural cycle was closely tied to the Nile's flooding, with specific seasons for planting and harvesting. This cyclical pattern dictated the rhythm of rural life and influenced the social and religious calendar.

Dangers Posed by Snakes, Scorpions, and Hippos

Ryan emphasizes the risks associated with agricultural life, depicting the dangers posed by cobras, vipers with horns, scorpions, and even hippos. He describes how these experiences could be painful and even fatal, forcing farmers to be constantly vigilant during their agricultural work. Ryan explains how cobras were both feared and revered, their image representing royal power and divine protection.

Other Perspectives

• The risks posed by these animals should be balanced with the understanding that they are an integral part of the ecosystem and often play important roles in controlling pests and maintaining ecological balance.
• In some regions, conservation efforts and habitat protection have led to a decrease in the number of dangerous encounters between farmers and wildlife.
• Effective safety training, proper equipment, and the use of protective gear can mitigate the need for constant vigilance by providing farmers with the tools to work safely.

The Demanding Nature of Manual Labor Occupations

Ryan provides a stark contrast between the privileged existence of the upper classes and the hardships endured by laborers. He highlights the physically grueling nature of their jobs, which are frequently performed under harsh conditions for meager compensation.

The Backbreaking Work and Low Status of Brick-Makers

Ryan delves into the laborious process of brick-making, describing it as one of the most physically demanding and socially demeaning occupations in Egyptian society. He meticulously details the backbreaking tasks of mixing mud, straw, and water, forming bricks with molds, and then drying them in the scorching sun. The author notes the constant repetition, the lack of shelter from the weather, and the perpetual risk of injury, illustrating the harsh reality of life for those engaged in this essential yet unglamorous profession.

Context

• Brick-makers were often at the bottom of the social hierarchy, sometimes composed of enslaved people or laborers who had little opportunity for social mobility.
• Brick-making was a critical industry in ancient Egypt, supporting the construction of infrastructure necessary for the functioning of cities and the expansion of the empire.
• The mixture of mud and straw used in brick-making was crucial for creating a durable product. Straw acted as a binding agent, preventing the bricks from cracking as they dried.
• Brick-making involved repetitive tasks such as mixing materials and forming bricks, which could lead to physical and mental fatigue due to the lack of variety in daily activities.
• Prolonged exposure to the sun without adequate protection can lead to severe sunburn, dehydration, and long-term skin damage. The lack of shelter would have increased these health risks for brick-makers.
• In ancient times, access to medical treatment was limited, meaning even minor injuries could become serious due to infection or improper healing.

Dismal Conditions and Resentment of Conscripted Workers

Ryan explains how conscripted labor was commonly used for major projects like pyramid and tomb construction, requiring thousands of men to be taken from their homes and families. He describes the dismal conditions they faced, with insufficient food, poor housing, and constant pressure from demanding overseers.

Ryan also highlights the resentment felt by conscripted workers, particularly foreigners like Jemer and Ezer, captured Syrians forced into brick-making. The author uses their experiences to expose the exploitation and abuse inherent in a system that relied on forced labor to bolster the Pharaoh's ambitions and the luxurious lifestyles of the elite.

Practical Tips

• Create a visual timeline of a personal project that requires multiple steps, such as renovating a room or planning a large event. Assign tasks to family members or friends, akin to how labor was distributed in ancient times, to understand the organization and manpower required for substantial undertakings.
• Create a visual art project that captures the emotional essence of being separated from family for work. Use mixed media, like photographs, drawings, or found objects, to express the feelings associated with this theme. This could be a personal exploration or a way to start conversations with others about the value of work-life balance.
• Create a simple budgeting plan to ensure your own basic needs are met efficiently. This exercise can help you appreciate the importance of resource allocation and the difficulties that arise when essentials like food and housing are insufficient. It can also serve as a practical tool to manage your personal finances more effectively.
• Create a personal or community blog to share stories and experiences of conscripted or foreign workers, aiming to raise awareness and empathy. By giving a platform to these voices, you can help humanize the issues they face and potentially influence positive change in societal attitudes.
• Volunteer with an organization that works to combat modern slavery and human trafficking. By contributing your time and effort, you'll be directly involved in creating positive change and helping individuals who are in situations reminiscent of Jemer and Ezer's.
• Start a personal audit of your possessions to understand the impact of consumerism on exploitation. Go through items you own, especially clothing, electronics, and accessories, and research the origins and production conditions. This will raise your awareness of how your consumption may inadvertently support exploitative practices and help you make more conscious future purchases.

Other Perspectives

• The term "forced labor" might not accurately reflect the nuances of ancient Egyptian conscription, which could have been part of a corvée system where labor was a civic duty and a form of taxation that citizens were expected to fulfill periodically.

Cultural Practices and Daily Life

This section explores various aspects of life and society in ancient Egyptian times, highlighting both the ingenuity and artistry of their crafts and the importance of social activities, entertainment, and celebrations.

The Importance of Artisanal Crafts and Trade

Ryan showcases the remarkable skill in Egyptian artisan crafts, describing the meticulous work of jewelers, carpenters, and potters. He emphasizes the pride they took in what they crafted, even when intended for funerary purposes, highlighting the intricate techniques and artistic vision required to create them.

Skill and Prestige of Jewelers, Carpenters, and Builders

Ryan portrays Puyemre, a skilled jeweler, showcasing his deep appreciation for gold, which he considers "pliable and simple to incorporate." The author details Puyemre's process of crafting elaborate pieces for the royal family, showcasing his expertise in melting, hammering, and inlaying gold with precious stones like turquoise, carnelian, and lapis lazuli.

Similarly, Ryan describes the craftsmanship of Nebseni, a highly skilled woodworker renowned for creating exquisite furnishings and burial boxes. He details the meticulous selection of lumber, highlighting the challenges of using often-scarce materials and the intricate techniques of joining, shaping, and decorating each item. The author emphasizes the importance of precision and the pride Nebseni takes in ensuring each piece is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Context

• In Egyptian mythology, gold was associated with the sun god Ra and was thought to be the flesh of the gods. This made it a material of choice for items intended for the afterlife.
• The craftsmanship of jewelers like Puyemre influenced artistic trends and set standards for luxury and design in the ancient world, with Egyptian styles being admired and emulated by neighboring cultures.
• Woodworking allowed for artistic expression through intricate carvings and inlays, often depicting religious or cultural motifs, which added aesthetic value to functional items.
• Ancient Egypt had limited access to quality timber due to its arid environment. Most wood had to be imported from regions like Lebanon, which was known for its cedar trees.
• In ancient Egypt, woodworkers like Nebseni often used mortise and tenon joints, a method where a protruding tenon fits into a corresponding mortise hole, providing strong, durable connections without the need for nails.
• Without modern tools, ancient Egyptian craftsmen relied on simple hand tools, requiring exceptional skill and precision to achieve the desired results.
• Becoming a skilled jeweler or woodworker required years of apprenticeship. Young apprentices learned the trade under the guidance of a master craftsman, ensuring the transmission of skills and techniques across generations.

Reliance on Imported Materials

Ryan sheds light on Egypt's reliance on imported materials to supplement their own resources, especially for high-quality crafts. The author describes the broad trade networks that brought cedarwood and other conifer trees from the eastern Mediterranean, ebony from distant southern lands, and even lapis lazuli from Afghanistan, far away. These imported materials, often acquired through military campaigns or tribute payments, demonstrate ancient Egypt's connection to the wider world and their desire for the best resources available.

Other Perspectives

• The importation of materials like lapis lazuli could have been for specific, high-status items rather than for everyday crafts, suggesting that the overall craft industry may have been less dependent on imports than the text implies.
• The desire for the best resources available could be interpreted as a pursuit of prestige and power, rather than an indication of international relations.
• The emphasis on military campaigns and tribute might imply a one-sided benefit, whereas in many cases, the exchange of goods could have been mutually advantageous for the involved parties.

The Social Activities, Entertainments, and Festivities

Ryan captures the vibrancy of ancient Egyptian life by describing their social activities, entertainment, and celebrations, highlighting the importance of music, dance, and lavish banquets. He portrays these events as occasions for social interaction, displays of affluence, and the enjoyment of life's pleasures.

The Elaborate Banquets, Dance Performances, and Drunken Celebrations

Ryan paints a vivid picture of lavish banquets hosted by the elite, detailing the opulent settings, the wealth of refreshments, and the presence of hired musicians and dancers to entertain guests. The author describes the meticulously planned preparations, the exquisite attire worn by attendees, and the festive atmosphere heightened by music, songs, and dancing.

The author also acknowledges the Egyptians’ enjoyment of alcoholic beverages, particularly beer and wine, and their willingness to indulge in excessive drinking during special occasions like the Drunkenness Festival. Ryan describes the antics of Henti, a dancer seeking to impress Userhet, the manager, with her performance at his son's wedding banquet, showcasing the sometimes-raucous nature of these celebrations and the unpredictable outcomes of intoxication.

Context

• Banquets were typically held in grand villas or palaces, featuring architectural elements like columns, frescoes, and gardens, which added to the opulence of the setting.
• These gatherings were not just for entertainment but also served as important opportunities for networking and forming alliances among the elite, influencing political and social dynamics.
• Alcoholic beverages were used in religious rituals and offerings to the gods. They were believed to have protective and purifying properties.
• Artifacts such as drinking vessels, inscriptions, and depictions in tombs provide evidence of the scale and nature of these celebrations, offering insights into their historical context.
• For dancers like Henti, performing at high-profile events was an opportunity to gain recognition and secure future engagements. Impressing influential figures could lead to more prestigious and lucrative opportunities.

Ceremonies and Superstitions Surrounding Birth, Dying, and Life After Death

Ryan emphasizes the significance of rituals and superstitions in every aspect of Egyptian life, particularly in events like childbirth and death. He describes the practices employed by midwives, such as reciting incantations and placing protective figures of the deities Bes and Heqat to repel negative energies in labor.

Ryan also provides a detailed account of the funerary rituals accompanying a burial, from the funeral procession to the cemetery to the performance of the "Opening of the Mouth" ceremony. The author explains how these rituals, carefully choreographed and performed by trained priests, aimed to ensure a successful transition to the next life and the deceased's eternal well-being. These celebrations, whether joyous or somber, highlight the Egyptians' profound connection to the spiritual realm and their meticulous efforts to navigate life's most significant transitions.

Practical Tips

• Create a personal reflection ritual by choosing a quiet time each week to contemplate the legacy you want to leave behind, similar to how ancient Egyptians focused on the afterlife. This can be a moment to write in a journal, meditate on your actions and their impact, or simply reflect on your relationships and achievements.

Other Perspectives

• The historical evidence for these practices is likely derived from archaeological findings and ancient texts, which may not provide a complete picture of the childbirth experience for every individual in ancient Egypt.
• The role of trained priests might be overstated, as the participation and belief of the family and community could have been equally or more important in the cultural context of ancient Egypt.
• The idea of a profound connection to the spiritual realm could be challenged by the fact that the practices surrounding birth, death, and the afterlife were heavily influenced by cultural norms and political structures, suggesting that these rituals also served to reinforce social hierarchies and state power.
• The book is described as fictional in nature, which suggests that while it may be inspired by historical evidence, it also contains creative elements that may not be strictly accurate or may exaggerate certain aspects of ancient Egyptian culture for narrative effect.