Vernus, P. 2003. Affairs and scandals in ancient Egypt. – Ithaca/London, Cornell University Press

Abstract

On a winter's day, a group of workmen who had not been paid for months, walked into the administrative centre responsible for distributing the wages and demanded that their wages. They returned day after day and their complaint was passed on to higher officials until the vizier himself had to interfere. Finally they received their payment. Detailed reports have been found on this matter; they record the earliest known strike in history. Its setting: ancient Egypt.

From the vast majority of books on ancient Egypt, a picture emerges of a people capable of creating exquisite art, that mastered techniques to build impressive temples and craft fine jewelry, and composed refined literature in equally pleasing writing. One would almost be tempted to think the Egyptians lived in a permanent state of bliss. Yet, their writings show not only wisdom texts and prayers, but they also convey records of trials and complaints of ordinary people. They speak of social unrest, corruption and conspiracies. In his book ‘Affairs and scandals in ancient Egypt’, Pascal Vernus discusses some of the better-known cases. The result is a vivid picture of a people with surprisingly modern problems. Read more...