DEATH
AND BURIAL IN ANCIENT EGYPT by
Salima Ikram is
a first-rate book that would make an excellent resource for anyone interested
in Egypt. In clear spare prose, Ikram describes the range of funerary customs
of ancient Egypt--not an easy task, since these customs changed
dramatically over the course of 3000+ years. But Ikram is up to the
task.
Especially
noteworthy are two chapters. In Chapter 3 (Mummification), Ikram
describes the changes that evolved in the mummification process in a
concise 30 pages.
She is careful to use the most up-to-date research which questions
traditional assumptions about pre-dynastic mummies (were they only
natural? or could resin have been used in some? research discoveries
suggest the latter). Particularly interesting is her own research on
turpentine (or other oleoresin) enemas used to dissolve (rather than
remove) the internal organs. In Chapter 4 (Animal Mummies), Ikram clearly
outlines the four types of animal mummies and illustrates them with
excellent photos of some fairly rare mummies. Because the subject of animal mummies is
seldom covered in most books on ancient Egypt, this makes Ikram's
work all the more valuable.
Also
essential is the chapter on burial tombs, one subject that confuses
many people about ancient Egypt. There were different types
(depending more on location and financing);
Ikram presents a comprehensive picture of these ancient tombs,
from their construction to their decoration.
All in
all, this book makes a valuable resource for teachers and students
(even in upper elementary grades); though not intended for children,
the reading level is quite accessible (especially considering the
subject). Many photos are included (though all are b&w). Ikram
and Dodson's The
Mummy in Ancient Egypt
would make a perfect companion to this book.
Highly recommended.
