You know when you’re in elementary school and the teacher asks you the age-old question, “What do you want to be when you grow up?”. Unfortunately, when I finally figured out that answer, I was in my 30s – but it’s archeology. Not only being an archeologist, but an Egyptologist. I’m not too entirely sure where my passion for Ancient Egypt came from. Perhaps the mystery and intrigue of it all – the ingenuity and advancements, the breathtaking craftsmanship, the Pharaohs’ and the lost tomb of Cleopatra, beliefs, religion and politics. And let’s not forget the connection between Ancient Egypt, mathematics, astrology, medicine and the afterlife.
Captivation
All jokes aside, Ancient Egypt is a civilization that has captivated the world for centuries. How Ancient Egypt progressed, was remarkable and the vast technological advancements we still don’t even know about today. How did they do it? Why did they do it? Their secrets lost in sand and time. Seeing pictures and videos of the tombs, chambers and temples of ancient Egypt with all it’s glorious art and carvings, always leaves me breathless and astonished. I often find myself watching endless documentaries and series about Ancient Egypt, and each time I’m left more intrigued. I never understood the passion over ancient history before – until now.
Documentaries & Series
There’s been a lot of documentaries I’ve watched over the years about Ancient Egypt.. and honestly, probably more than I’d like to admit. Here are a few series and episodes that are at the top of my mind that I’ve enjoyed:
- Unknown: The Lost Pyramid
- Secrets of The Saqqara Tomb
- History’s Greatest Mysteries: S4.E10 – The Puzzling Pyramids of Egypt
- National Geographic: Lost Treasures of Egypt
- National Geographic: Tut’s Treasures: Hidden Secrets
- Expedition Unknown: S10.E8 – Egypt’s Lost Tombs
- Expedition Unknown: S10.E9 – Egypt’s City of The Dead
- (yes I pay $5.99 for Discovery+… what can I say I’m a sucker for the supernatural and conspiracy theories)
Daydreaming
Though I’ve never been to Egypt, I often find myself envisioning being there and visiting the ancient temples and tombs. Seeing the carvings myself, the stars painted on Nefertiti’s tomb ceiling, and the familiar gold mask of Tutankhamun. Unfortunately, due to conflicts in the world right now, traveling to Egypt is not a viable option. I will continue to live vicariously through Josh Gates and the great Zahi Hawass, while I grow more knowledge through documentaries and research.
Now, lets that a walk together through the mystifying Ancient Egypt.
EXSM 3989 - Digital Storytelling Class Blog 