VOICES FROM ANCIENT EGYPT: An Anthology of...

VOICES FROM ANCIENT EGYPT: An Anthology of Middle Kingdom Writings by R.B. Parkinson (University of Oklahoma Press: $19.95, illustrated). This collection of miscellaneous writings culled from a variety of sources offers readers a look at life in Egypt during the Middle Kingdom (2081-1640 B.C.), when the country was ruled by a succession of unimpressive Pharaohs. Parkinson’s selections range from hymns and poetry to the boasting inscriptions left on blank walls. The unnamed Teacher of King Merikare admonished his royal master, “The character of the right-hearted shall be accepted/ against the ox of the evil-doer./ Act for god, and just so shall he act for you.” The caption to a bas-relief in the tomb of Sonebi of two men harvesting flax recounts their quarrel over who’s working harder. This unusual book confirms the confidence the Vizier Ptahhotep expressed in the durability of his words 4,000 years ago: “It is good to speak to the Future/ It shall listen.”