Overview
The ancient Egyptians believed the gods created the world around them. Throughout pharaonic history, different traditions developed at various seats of learning, each favouring deities associated with the locality.
This day school will explore the four main creation myths of ancient Egypt, centred at Heliopolis, Elephantine, Hermopolis Magna, and Memphis. Key themes will be explored including life emerging from Nun (watery abyss), the power of the spoken word, and diversification and differentiation.
You'll develop skills to evaluate the similarities and differences in the creation myths and gain an understanding of how they fit into the wider religious beliefs of ancient Egypt. You'll enjoy the issues raised in this day school if you relish thinking about the big questions in life. No prior knowledge is required, just a desire to think about where it all began.
Syllabus
- 10am-1pm: Heliopolis and Elephantine
- 1-2pm: Lunch break
- 2-3pm: Memphis and Hermopolis Magna.
Course lecturer
Dr Joanne Backhouse completed her PhD at the University of Liverpool in 2016. Her research focuses on the representation of women in ancient Egypt. However, she has a wider interest in the art of ancient Egypt and the evolution of style. She has lectured on the material culture of ancient Egypt for over ten years, in a variety of institutions and more recently online. She is also Chair of Wirral Ancient Egypt Society.
Course fee
£50.
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