Egyptian Hieroglyphs for Everyone. an Introduction to the Writing of Ancient Egypt

by Joseph Scott

The terminology used to describe ancient Egyptian writing has become somewhat confused over the years. Even the words "hieroglyph" and "hieroglyphic" have come to be used interchangeably, and often incorrectly. This introduction to the intriguing realm of Egyptian hieroglyphs helps pull back the curtain which still partly shrouds the world of ancient Egypt. Close analyses of existing remains by language experts have shown that hieroglyphs go back in history to at least 3100 B.C. Today, the distinctive characters drawn by scribes remain graceful and intriguing, even though the style has not been practiced in Egypt for almost 2,000 years. Authors Joseph and Lenore Scott offer a simplified, yet lively description of how hieroglyphs were written and provide insight into their reading and advice on how to study the language. Chapters deal with the alphabet, bilaterals, determinatives, writing direction, writing tools, pronunciation, vocabulary, typical sentences, grammar, the calendar, numbers, the Rosetta Stone, forms of writing, cartouche reading, much more. Black-and-white illustrations.

Genres: Nonfiction, History, Egyptology, Language, Art

Hardcover

First published January 1, 1968

Reviews

[Helen Pugsley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was so perfect. I learned so much and I'm so grateful.

[Trever · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book focuses on hieroglyphs for everyone, the unfortunate part about that is that it doesn't go into real depth into how to describe them.

Good beginners book.

[Dave Maddock · Rating 3 out of 5]

A light introduction--I wouldn't attempt seriously to learn to read hieroglyphs using this--but diverting nonetheless.

[Adam Barrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is awesome! It does exactly what it sets out to do: serve as a primer for those interested in hieroglyphic writing.
I was really impressed by 3 things with regard to hieroglyphs. 1-deciphering which direction to read passages, 2- the idea of determinative which tell you what the words are referring to, 3-the Eye of Horus was used for fractions WHAT?!
The writing was easy to read and engaging. The lists of words and pronunciation was helpful. This is a cool little book. Recommended!