NMC253H1

Egyptian Myths

This course explores ancient Egyptian mythical writings and representations, starting with the myths contained in the Pyramid Texts of the 3rd millennium BCE and ending with the narrative mythical tales of the 1st millennium BCE and beyond. Definitions and theories of ancient Egyptian myth as well as historical developments will be discussed, and we will attempt to explain why religious beliefs and stories changed. The course is structured systematically, focusing in particular on mythical accounts that elucidate Egyptian cosmic, royal, and funerary beliefs as well as the intersection of these domains. All texts read in translation.