The Great Goddesses of Ancient Egypt

6 weekly sessions, on Tuesdays at 11am - 1pm, starting from Tuesday 3 February.

Overview

The Ancient Egyptians worshipped strong female deities, some of whom had qualities associated with nurturing, motherhood and rebirth, while others were linked to warfare. Using a variety of evidence, including texts and iconographic, this course will examine the roles and functions these goddesses played in the lives of the ancients Egyptians. We will review how they were worshipped in festivals, temples and the home. We will consider if the goddesses were revered locally or nationally and at a particular time period or throughout Pharaonic Egypt.  Students will develop knowledge of ancient religious beliefs and practices, in addition to the skills to interpret and evaluate the evidence.  No prior knowledge is required but a love of feisty women would be an asset! 

Syllabus

1. Hathor/Sekhmet
2. Nut
3. Isis and Nephthys
4. Selkat and Neith
5. Maat and the Two Ladies (Nekhbet and Wadjet)
6. Meretseger

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

• Standard fee: £95
• Concession fee: £50