A Ruler's Decree: Everyday Life in an Ancient Civilization

 

Dearest citizens of the conquered South Kingdom, today I (Ramses II) issue my first decree to you as your Pharaoh. That being said, there are a few things you should know about life here in Egypt, specifically I would like to discuss education, family life and religion which are fundamental aspects of our culture.

 

Generally, we educate our men at a young age, they are taught reading, writing, mathematics and religious morals. Our schools in Egypt are only meant for boys, your girls will receive their education at home from their mothers.[1] They will learn how to sew, cook and read in order to become. Although our schools are for boys, not all will receive formal education, those who do will most likely be from royal or rich backgrounds. 

 

In Egypt the eldest child in a structured family is expected to care for their parents in their old age. Our boys get married between the ages of 16 and 20, while our girls get married soon after they hit puberty.[2]  In Egyptian marriage arrangements there are no spiritual or religious commitments, once a man and a woman not related by blood begin living together, they are considered to be man and wife. 

With regards to religion we Egyptians teach that the universe came into existence as a result of Nun, a god of water and chaos who gave birth to the first deities.[3]

 One essential deity in our religion is Heka who is the god of magic because he is the one who gives the gods their powers. We believe that our gods live among us, trees must therefore be respected as these are their dwelling places.

These aspects of our culture have been in place for many years and allow our men to become knowledgeable, or families to thrive and our religious values to remain strong. Welcome to Egypt, I trust that you will do your best to contribute to our thriving civilization so that it remains for a long time.

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[1]                “Legends & Chronicles,” accessed November 29, 2021, https://www.legendsandchronicles.com/ancient-civilizations/ancient-egypt/ancient-egyptian-education/

[2]                TVO ILC, World History to the End of the Fifteenth Century (Toronto, ON, 2014), lesson 3, pg.5

[3]                Cassam Looch, “A Beginner’s Guide to the Religions of Egypt,” Culture Trip. March 4, 2020, https://theculturetrip.com/africa/egypt/articles/a-complete-guide-to-the-religions-of-egypt/

Bibliography:

“Legends & Chronicles.” Accessed November 29, 2021. https://www.legendsandchronicles.com/ancient-civilizations/ancient-egypt/ancient-egyptian-education/

 

Looch, Cassam. “A Beginner’s Guide to the Religions of Egypt.” Culture Trip. March 4, 2020. https://theculturetrip.com/africa/egypt/articles/a-complete-guide-to-the-religions-of-egypt/

 

TVO ILC. World History to the End of the Fifteenth Century. Toronto, ON, 2014.