Gods, Mummies, and Myths: Exploring Ancient Egyptian Society

Catalog description

This survey course explores the foundational myths, deities, and creation narratives that informed the worldview and shaped the culture and society of ancient Egypt over more than 3,000 years. Through the study of archaeological evidence, historiographic records, and translated texts (including literary and funerary texts), students will examine how these beliefs structured Egyptian society, from kingship to daily life. Key topics include the function and symbolism of pyramids, cosmology (the origins, structure, and order of the universe and the natural world), religious practices, concepts of life and death, personal piety, morality and justice, and the dynamics of tradition and change. No prerequisites.