Reading Group: Scandals, Affairs, Treason: Misdeeds in Ancient Egypt

Previous participation and previous knowledge not required.

Sources favour the powerful; they have their deeds immortalized and, perhaps, their wrongdoings omitted. But what about the less lucky ones–who lost battles for power, who were persecuted for their misdemeanours and, consequently, could no longer influence how they were remembered or if their memory was condemned?

This reading group aims to explore the traces of scandals, affairs and crimes committed by both common people and the political elite of Ancient Egypt. Instead of focusing on the ideals Egyptian society worked towards, we will investigate proscribed behaviour and its consequences. What actions were considered off limits may reveal much about a social or political system and in this way, we will explore sources on adultery, political intrigue and regicide.

3-Week Text-In-Translation Reading Group

Mondays @ 12pm EST

Start date: June 27th