The Archaeology of Early Egypt: Social Transformations in North-East Africa, c.10,000 to 2,650 BC

ISBN-13: 9780521543743 / Angielski / Miękka / 2006 / 366 str.

David Wengrow (University College London)

Opis

In this authoritative survey of the archaeology of early Egypt, David Wengrow offers a new interpretation of the emergence of farming economies and the dynastic state, c.10,000 to 2,650 BC. Exploring key themes such as the nature of state power, kingship and the inception of writing, Wengrow illuminates prehistoric social development along the Nile through comparison with neighboring regions. Employing rich empirical data and engaging critically with anthropological theory and the history of archaeological thought, Wengrow's work challenges the current theoretical isolation of Egyptian prehistory.

Recenzje

'… a detailed and an insightful look into the formation of early Egyptian civilization. … essential reading for anyone trying to understand the formation of early Egyptian burial practices, social customs, and cultural traditions and how they impacted later Egyptian history.' Near East Archaeological Society Bulletin

Spis treści

Introduction: the idea of prehistory in the Middle East and North East Africa; Part I. Transformations in Prehistory: 1. Egypt and the outside world I, c.10,000–3300 BC; 2. Neolithic economy and society; 3. Domestication and embodiment in the Nile valley; 4. The urbanisation of the dead: Naqada I-II; 5. Image, ritual and the construction of identity in late prehistory; Part II. The Making of Kingship: 6. Opening considerations: la mémoire monarchique; 7. Egypt and the outside world II, c.3300–2500 BC; 8. The evolution of simplicity: Naqada III; 9. Extraordinary bodies and binding truths: early writing in context; 10. Theatres of sacrifice: dynastic constructions of death; Conclusion: subterranean histories of power.