Presenter: Dr. Lanny Bell, Department of Egyptology and Ancient Western Asian Studies, Brown University

Location: Institute for the Study of the Ancient World, 15 East 84th Street (between 5th and Madison)

This lecture is free and open to the public.

RSVP required: Please promptly reply to isaw@nyu.edu

Description: Because of the focus that the temple provided in their lives, the people of Egypt have always been active on its peripheries. In antiquity they even participated in public processions during annual festivals, when they were introduced into the less restricted courtyards and ceremonial halls of the temple.  In the role of “congregation,” they took part as both adorers and witnesses to the dramatic success of the important rites conducted there.  In political terms, these festivals constituted symbolic display, staged to reinforce the king’s power and position as head of society.  This lecture examines human aspects of the New Kingdom temple (1570-1070 BCE). and the connection between ancient Egypt as an important component of modern Egypt.