The Pyramids and Temples of Gizeh

by William Matthew Flinders Petrie

Based on the author's work in Egypt in the 1880s, this unusual volume addresses one of history's greatest puzzles -- how were the pyramids of Gizeh built? Before Petrie undertook this study, the Great Pyramid was a byword for paradox - something that was generally familiar, yet not accurately known. No measurements or detailed examination had been performed. Petrie set out to apply mathematical methods to the study of the pyramids and surrounding temples, with the objective of understanding the methods and abilities of the ancient workers. The result, presented in this volume, is a complete set of measurements of the pyramids, both inside and outside. These provide the foundation for the rest of the book, which deals with the architectural ideas of the pyramid builders, the mechanical methods they used, and a comparison of previous theories with the facts that Petrie had newly established.

Genres: History

260 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 1990

About the author

Sir William Matthew Flinders Petrie FRS, known as Flinders Petrie, was an English Egyptologist and a pioneer of systematic methodology in archaeology. He held the first chair of Egyptology in the United Kingdom, and excavated at many of the most important archaeological sites in Egypt, such as Naukratis, Tanis, Abydos and Amarna. Some consider his most famous discovery to be that of the Merneptah Stele. Petrie developed the system of dating layers based on pottery and ceramic findings.

Reviews

[John Gates · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is very interesting reading these old books, if nothing else than to gain some perspective on professionals of a different era. It is amazing the faculties of such individuals. This is one of many books perused by those interested in the progression of archaeology as it pertains to ancient Egypt and understanding where quotes and such came from is paramount. This is not only interesting in and of itself as I have stated thus far here within, but also is interesting in gaining perspective on historical writing styles. I'm glad I picked this up.

[Carlton Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was one of those high altitude cruising reads to understand what information lay within its covers - for another project i have in mind for this. This book contains precise measurements from the survey of Giza, and its associated descriptive information, by Sir Flinder's Petrie. I believe this represents a high quality data and description of everything which is Giza, before any agendas crept in.