Death on the Nile

3 Credits · Level: Undergraduate

Upon entering the "House of Millions of Years" of the Great Rameses, located on the west bank of Luxor, visitors become enveloped in a labyrinth of towering columns and the shadows they cast. The weathered reliefs whisper the tales of ancient glories while the shattered colossi lie strewn across the ground. Ancient Egypt evokes a sense of "eternity" yet simultaneously serves as a poignant reminder of the inevitability of death and oblivion. In this course, we will delve into the ancient Egyptians' view on death and their preparations for the afterlife. Topics for study encompass the treatment of the body, the crafting and decoration of coffins, the selection of burial goods, and the construction of ideal tombs. The course will then focus on several case studies, including the burials of the royals, courtiers, provincial leaders, artists, and foreigners. Assessments consist of quizzes, essays, and a final presentation centered on one specific burial. Throughout the semester, students will have hands-on experiences in compiling, describing, and analyzing funerary practices and material cultures from ancient Egypt while reflecting on the individuality of the burial's owner. They will also discuss museums’ duties in ethically caring for human remains.