Exploring the Timeless Charm of Ancient Egypt

For as long as I can remember, Ancient Egypt has held a special place in my heart. My fascination with this ancient civilization began in childhood and has only grown with each passing year. This article delves into the factors that inspired my love for Ancient Egypt and how it has shaped my life.

Formative Encounters

One of the earliest and most influential encounters with Ancient Egypt for me was a visit to the British Museum in London when I was just 7 years old. My father took me there, and I was utterly entranced by the Egyptian gallery. The statuary, with their mysterious smiles, left a lasting impression and an overwhelming sense of spiritual wonder. Even as a retired teacher of Ancient History in New Zealand, I still carry that feeling of awe with me. Looking back, I recognize that it was the haunting spirituality of the artifacts that captured my imagination.

The Spark of Discovery

My love for Ancient Egypt also ignited during my teenage years in the 1950s. Two pivotal moments stood out. The first was the publication of a series of paintings by National Geographic, which recreating events from Ancient Egyptian history. This led me to seek out the novel "The Egyptian" by Mika Waltari at my local library. I ended up reading the novel multiple times and digging into everything the library had on the subject. Around the same time, my Aunt had a collection of history and art books, and I found particular joy in the Egyptian art. I was enthralled from the first moment I saw the view master slides and mummy pictures.

Movies and Documentaries

Another significant inspiration came from the movie "Cleopatra" starring Elizabeth Taylor. When I was around 6 years old, I first watched the film, and it piqued my interest in Egyptian history. This was further fueled by my exposure to documentaries on the Discovery Channel and National Geographic, featuring Egyptologists such as Zahi Hawass, Joann Fletcher, Salima Ikram, Bob Brier, and others.

The Appeal of Big Ideas

The Ancient Egyptians were renowned for their grand projects, such as the pyramids and the city of Karnak. Their obsession with mummification and their devotion to preserving the bodies of their pharaohs also capture my imagination. The tomb of King Tutankhamun, with its intact and splendid artifacts, remains an enduring symbol of their achievements. The combination of these big ideas, the allure of Egyptian art, and the influence of Hollywood movies have all contributed to a deep and enduring interest in Ancient Egypt.

Conclusion

My journey with Ancient Egypt began in childhood and is still very much a part of who I am today. The timeless charm of this ancient civilization continues to inspire me, drawing me back to its mysteries and history. Whether through books, documentaries, or personal visits to museums, my fascination with Ancient Egypt has only grown over the years, serving as a reminder of the enduring allure of the past.