Egyptian (Kemet)
3100 BCE - 30 BCE
Ancient Egypt, situated along the Nile River, endured for thousands of years, showcasing an extraordinary civilization characterized by its stability, monumental architecture, and advanced cultural achievements. The Egyptians excelled in hieroglyphic writing, monumental construction such as the pyramids, a complex religious belief system centered around pharaohs as divine rulers, and a rich culture of art and literature. Their innovations in medicine, mathematics, and astronomy left a lasting legacy.
Culture
Major language groups and dialects
Ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs and demotic script were widely used.
Culture and cultural heritage
Famous for hieroglyphs, mummification, and advanced knowledge in medicine, mathematics, and astronomy.
Shared customary codes and values
Honor, respect for authority, and beliefs in the afterlife and divine justice were significant. Ma'at, the concept of balance and truth, was integral to their ethics.
Common Etiquette rules
Respect for elders was essential. Etiquette varied across social classes; for example, commoners would bow to show respect to the higher class.
Common Dress code
Attire varied based on social status. Linen garments were common, and specific styles denoted status and occupation.
Art & Architecture
Known for monumental structures like pyramids, temples, and obelisks. Hieroglyphic art, monumental sculptures, and paintings depicted daily life and religious beliefs.
Foods & Cuisine
Ate bread, beer, vegetables, fruits, and meat. Food held religious significance, and feasting was part of religious rituals and festivals.
Common Customs, traditions and rituals
Celebrated festivals honoring gods with rituals, processions, and offerings in temples.
Coming of Age Rites
Boys underwent ceremonies transitioning into adulthood, often learning professions. Girls were prepared for marriage and household responsibilities.
Funerary and Memorial customs
Elaborate burial rituals involving mummification, tomb preparations, and the belief in the afterlife with items buried with the deceased.
Common Taboos
Forbidden to disrespect the gods or defile tombs, as they believed it would impact the afterlife.
Common Myths and Legends
Stories of gods like Ra, Osiris, and Isis, tales of the afterlife, and creation myths were integral to Egyptian beliefs.
Historical figures
Pharaohs like Tutankhamun, Ramses II, and Hatshepsut remain famous in Egyptian history.
Ideals
Beauty Ideals
Both men and women valued youthful appearances. They used cosmetics, elaborate hairstyles, and adorned themselves with jewelry. Dark kohl around the eyes and henna for hair were common.
Gender Ideals
Men and women had defined roles. Men were usually breadwinners, while women managed households. However, women did have property rights and some held positions of power.
Courtship Ideals
Marriage was a significant social institution, often arranged by families. Love poetry and letters depicted romantic pursuits, and fidelity within marriage was highly valued.
Relationship Ideals
Family was crucial, and marriages were seen as important for social and economic stability. Pharaohs often married within their family for political reasons.
