Customer Reviews

Myth and Symbol in Ancient Egypt

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

 

 

of all the books i've read on the religion of ancient egypt (and there have been quite a few), this is the only book i've read that offers explanations to why these myths originated--what needs they fulfilled in us, and how the myths of the gods were actually symbols of the development of the soul. one of the best things about this book is that the author actually respects these ingenious people, and does not dismiss their religion as foolish superstitions, but rather deep philosophical ideas. after reading this book, my view on the religion of Kemet has been drastically clarified--including the seeming contradictions and blending of the gods' stories. highly recommended for those trying to understand these people, rather than just learning cold data.

This book is not intented as a general public introduction to the religion of ancient Egypt and that's why many newcomers in Egyptology became dissapointed or were at a lost. The speech of the author is not easy to follow if one is not well embebed into the ancient system of thought. None the less, there are plentiful of original research in this book that I should recommend it to anyone who wants to get deeper into Egyptian mythology.

I'm torn between giving this book a 3 or 4 stars because although Clark did touch on a good amount of details that were interesting and helpful about the religion of ancient egypt, I had a problem with his writing style. It can get convoluted and unclear at times, going back and forth frequently on a topic, and cutting to the next idea rather bluntly. In other words, he'll be talking about a specific subject and all of a sudden, the next paragraph will be on something new with hardly any transition, much less a smooth one. The first few chapters are the worst "mumbo-jumbo," which can make it a little hard and frustrating to get into the book (something any author would want to avoid, I'm sure). I realize the religion itself is one of the most complicated religions, but I'm convinced there has to be a better/ simpler way to explain its myths to beginners. However, if you don't mind re-reading some things and taking notes, the book should be a good addition to your reading list, but ONLY as an addition.

This book alows you to contact as directly as possible the actual egyptian formulations of their myth when they generated them. This is truly a unique experience, that becomes even greater when one visits Egypt.

This book alows you to contact as directly as possible the actual egyptian formulations of their myth when they generated them. This is truly a unique experience, that becomes even greater when one vistis Egypt.

I've used this several times for research (academic and personal) and it is a wonderful resource!