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Essay / Analysis of ancient Egyptian culture and lifestyle using three major documents
Ancient Egypt was an elaborate empire, apparently one of the most interesting ancient cities of all time . From fearless pharaohs to incredible writing techniques to stunning architecture, Egypt was a complex society with many details that created one of the most enduring empires in history. To explore in more depth the composition of society in this early civilization, let us discuss three major documents from this period: Ptah-Hotep, Precepts (2300 BCE), Instruction to Vizier Rekhmire (1400 BCE), and The house of Hekanakhte (2002/1 BCE). give us a glimpse into the world of Egyptian culture. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay The Precepts of Ptah-Hotep is a document that was written in 2300 BCE, 5th Dynasty, in ancient Egypt. Ptah-Hotep has written this set of guidelines for young people to keep them on the right track. He begins the document by explaining how his writings will advise young Egyptian men on how to be enlightened and free from evil. Most of what is written is in the second person and is addressed directly to a young man. Most of the moral issues discussed concern the relationship between a man and a woman, or between a husband and his wife. This focus on the marital relationship showed how important the role of marriage and loyalty to one another was in Egyptian culture. The beginning of these precepts focused on how a man should act in everyday life. Ptah-Hotep writes: “Let no one inspire fear in men. . . and “If you are a farmer, you reap the crops in the field that the great [Ptah] gave you, do not fill your mouth in the house of your neighbors; it is better to make yourself feared by the owner. » These presentations of ideal behaviors show that man was supposed to be autonomous and strong. The expectations of young men in Egyptian society were for a high standard of virility. Later in the document, the author discusses a man's expectations of a woman. It begins with: “If you wish to arouse respect in the house you enter, for example the house of a superior, a friend or any person of consideration… be careful not to make advances towards a woman, because there is nothing good to do. SO. "This statement shows that matters of this nature were not accepted at all, and if a single man committed such an act, it would cause him to lose all respect. The author even goes so far as to say: "men destroy each other to enjoy a moment, in short like a dream, while they win death…” Keeping a faithful relationship seems to be at the center of Ptah-Hotep’s writing The importance of a woman’s happiness in her marriage. has also been expressed quite thoroughly. In several sections of his writings, he also discusses the comfort of the wife. In one paragraph he mentions: “If you are wise, take care of your house; Fill her belly, clothe her back; these are care to be given to her person. “Despite this concern for women, they still could not decide their own fate. A man took care of all aspects of. their lives Everything Ptah-Hotep wrote focused on how an Egyptian should participate in daily activities and social relationships. The document Instruction to Vizier Rekhmire was written in the 15th century BCE. It is essentially an instruction manual for becoming the pharaoh's vizier or chief minister. The author first.