Customer Reviews

History of Ancient Egypt: An Introduction

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Extremely well translated by American Egyptologist David Lorton, Hornung's book covers the history of Ancient Egypt from its Archaic to its Late Periods. It provides a concise description of important events through historical facts. A thorough yet brief explanation of political, economical, social, literary and artistical changes of Ancient Egyptian society leads to the development of the kingdoms. Black and white photographs, an excellent bibliography and a glossary explaining commonly used Egyptological terms accompany the main body. Recommended for professionals and amateurs.

Far from discrediting Professor Hornung's mastery of the subject, I regret to say that this book is only a straightforward and very traditional political history of the successions of dynasties and pharaohs, with occasional hints on developments in art. Being an introductory work, I find it sad that it lacks mention of basic traits of economy and social life in the Egyptian world, as well as a clearer treatment of the state of sources (very common in the most recent general works). Also, the Intermediate Periods are squeezed at the end of the chapters, whose titles end up hinting at a continuity between the Old, Middle and New Kingdoms - the chapter on the Late Period seems even a bit rushed (btw, it accepts uncritically the very old and outdated theory of the "Sea Peoples" being a single factor of destruction in 1200BC). The Oxford History of Egypt is much more comprehensive, and I'd recommend it instead of this book.

This is a respectable introduction to the history of ancient Egypt. Hornung presents prose that is sincerely interested into the story of Egypt. He carefully outlines the political history of the civilization, dynasty to dynasty. I didn't notice any moments of awkward translation.

My order came very quickly and it is in great condition. The book is a great introduction to Egyptology.