Product Description

Despite technology and an immensely greater understanding of himself and his world, modern man still lives in societies which are recognizably descended from the patterns of Bronze Age states. Egypt is a particularly well-documented example. Writing from an archaeological perspective, Barry Kemp presents a comprehensive reassessment of Egyptian society, based on new excavation evidence and reinterpretation of existing material. He explores the great shaping forces of ancient Egyptian civilization: political myth and ideology, the bureaucratic utopia of universal provision of work and food, the presentational devices of charismatic rule: and, as well, the tempering effects on people of political and economic experience. Barry Kemp shows us ancient Egypt as a window on mankind, and transforms our understanding of this remarkable civilization.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #123620 in Books
• Published on: 1991-07-11
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 368 pages

Review
There is a danger that the plethora of information on ancient Egypt might make a conventional dynastic history unwieldy to the non-specialist. Here Barry Kemp achieves the seemingly impossible, telling the tale of Egypt's long development from an archaeological viewpoint and seamlessly weaving art, architecture, religion, politics and economics into his narrative so that the past becomes a well-rounded country that we recognize and enjoy. As an introduction to the dynastic age, this book is highly recommended. Every time I read it, I discover something new. (Kirkus UK)

Synopsis
Despite technology and an immensely greater understanding of himself and his world, modern man still lives in societies which are recognizably descended from the patterns of Bronze Age states. Egypt is a particularly well-documented example. Writing from an archaeological perspective, Barry Kemp presents a comprehensive reassessment of Egyptian society, based on new excavation evidence and reinterpretation of existing material. He explores the great shaping forces of ancient Egyptian civilization: political myth and ideology, the bureaucratic utopia of universal provision of work and food, the presentational devices of charismatic rule: and, as well, the tempering effects on people of political and economic experience. Barry Kemp shows us ancient Egypt as a window on mankind, and transforms our understanding of this remarkable civilization.

Customer Reviews

Fantastic book
Kemps present a thorough and updated review on Egyptian culture and history, based in his great expertise of field archaeology. This book is definitely a must to any serious or just curious person interested in Egyptology!