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Summary:
An idealised version of women appears everywhere in the art of ancient Egypt, but the true nature of these women's 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 archaeologist's 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 Egypt's 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 history's most exotic and familiar cultures.
Customer Reviews:
Average Customer Rating:
Questionable evidence
Customer Rating:
The author is obviously very learned and has every right to draw conclusions from evidence witnessed first-hand; however, she too often mentions that the evidence is weak or strong without discussing why the evidence seems to suggest (either weakly or strongly) what has been asserted. This simply happens too often and leaves the reader wondering whether or not she has "learned" something that is not exactly true. Overall, the portraits of the lives and interactions of the historical characters are very compelling and vivid, among them many pharaohs and their various wives and lovers.
useful contribution on women in Ancient Egypt
Customer Rating:
This book is a detailed account of domestic, economic, social and legal lives of ancient Egyptian women. The author describes queenship, marriage, childbirth, family, religion, and death; she also discusses women in Ancient Egyptian literature and art; and she provides excellent information to back up her study. An excellent bibliography is included, as well as good black and white illustrations. This is a recommended book for those interested in the lives and roles of women.
Excellent for Assignments
Customer Rating:
This is a very detailed book that I found invaluable when doing a research task on Women in New Kingdom Egypt. The information is organised into the Old, Middle and New Kingdom periods, and is backed up with numerous pictures and references to tombs.
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