In Bed with the Ancient Egyptians

by Charlotte Booth

In modern-day media, depictions of ancient Egyptian society are of a highly sexualised, lustful culture, but how accurate are these depictions of a people so shrouded in mystery and legend that it is sometimes hard to tell truth from fiction? In this fascinating and intimate insight into ancient Egyptian sex and sexuality, Charlotte Booth demystifies an ancient way of life, drawing on archaeological evidence and the written record to build a picture of what really went on in the bedrooms of the pharaohs and their subjects. Sex was a prominent part of ancient Egyptian society. It featured heavily in religion, mythology and artwork, and was not considered the taboo it is sometimes treated as in modern cultures. This book examines all aspects of ancient Egyptian sex lives, from idealised beauty and attitudes towards sexuality, to representations of fertility in art and the relationship between sex and religion. Many of the trials and tribulations that were faced are as relevant today as they were in the past: marriage, divorce and adultery are all discussed, as well as prostitution, homosexuality, sexual health and fertility. Whilst many of the remedies seem bizarre to the modern mind, some of the attitudes are surprisingly liberal, and all make for fascinating reading. From Akhenaten and his famously beautiful queen, Nefertiti, to the seductive Cleopatra’s affairs with Julius Caesar and Marc Antony, Booth provides a tantilising glimpse into this extremely personal aspect of ancient Egyptian life.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, Egypt, Sexuality, Ancient History, Egyptology

278 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 28, 2015

Reviews

[Gareth Russell · Rating 3 out of 5]

A deeply interesting look at ancient Egyptian attitudes to sexuality, written by someone with a clear passion for the subject and a deep knowledge of the civilisation. A background knowledge of ancient Egypt would be advisable, since this is something of a specialist text, moving through the different dynasties and religious cults to highlight evolving sexual and romantic mores.

[Iset · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you’ve already read Charlotte Booth’s Lost Voices of Ancient Egypt then you’ve already read a chapter that is essentially an abridged version of this book. That said, the book deals with its subject that is at once witty and mature, and it certainly a topic often ignored in Egyptology. What comes across most strongly, however, is not the differences in the sensibilities and fashions of the ancient Egyptians in this area, but the similarities, and how for them just as much as for us, sex was a functional and ordinary part of life. The book is quite comprehensive; it isn’t just about sex, but related subjects such as beauty ideals, courtship, marriage, procreation, and alternative preferences as well.

8 out of 10

[Roselyn Blonger · Rating 4 out of 5]

This offers an intriguing exploration of the lives of ancient Egyptians. The book is filled with a multitude of fascinating details and accompanied by examples that enhance our understanding of this ancient civilization. It is undeniably an engaging and informative read, especially for those who are just beginning to delve into the world of Egyptology.

The book succeeds in presenting a comprehensive overview of various aspects of ancient Egyptian life. The author skillfully navigates through different topics, shedding light on the customs, beliefs, and daily routines of the people of that era. The inclusion of anecdotes and specific instances helps to paint a vivid picture of the society's dynamics.

However, the book's title led me to anticipate a deeper exploration of certain subjects, such as marriage and the influence of medicine on family structures. While the book provides a solid foundation of basic knowledge, I couldn't help but wish for more in-depth analysis in these areas. The content often skims the surface, leaving readers wanting more profound insights into the intricacies of ancient Egyptian culture.

[Alyssa E · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best insights into the lives of Ancient Egyptians I’ve read. Through the lens of sex and gender, Booth illustrates a fantastically real view of what the Egyptians valued and sought in their daily lives. It’s a step above your average book on the subject, but still accessible to someone without a masters in history. My only critique is the amount of typos in the book (I counted almost a dozen), but find that reflects more on the editors than Booth’s writing. A must read for anyone interested in the ancient world!

[Raymonds009 · Rating 4 out of 5]

The title does not really tell the story. It is of course a come on. This is really an excellent look at the structure of Egyptian society in this life and the next as pertains to the most personal relations between and among the sexes. Everything is covered, however, as the records are very scant there is a lot of surmising about what is going on. Still a lively and fun discussion. Some things are strange but for the most part it sounds awfully modern at the same time. Recommended.

[Christy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Totally fascinating

[Georgia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very interesting, but could be better written (my copy had quite a few grammar/spelling mistakes and it was a little repetitive sometimes).

[Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating book that revealed much that I didn't already know about the Ancient Egyptians' everyday relationship both with each other and their gods. Definitely well worth a read for the amateur Egyptologist.

[Michael]

Fascinating book that revealed to me a lot of things I didn't already know about the Ancient Egyptians' everyday life and relationship with both each other and their gods. Definitely well worth a read for the amateur Egyptologist.

[G. Lawrence · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating read. Engaging, well written, informative. Highly recommended