The Teachings of Amenemhat I
Title: The Lintel of Amenemhat I
Title: El Lishta
Applied Selection Theory & Amenemhat I
1) Applied Selection Theory Character: AY or won
2) Applied Selection Theory Character: AZ, “tel you’re in”, a-z
3) Applied Selection Theory Character:: N
Comprehensive Review of Ancient Egyptian Teachings
The Teachings of Amenemhat I
Characters
The main character is Amenemhat I, the founder of the 12th Dynasty and a powerful pharaoh. He is portrayed as a wise but disillusioned ruler, speaking from beyond the grave to his son and heir, Senusret I. Amenemhat I comes across as a complex figure - a strong leader who has faced betrayal and learned hard lessons about trust and power. Senusret I, though not actively present in the text, is the intended audience and future king, positioned to learn from his father's experiences.
2. The Teachings of Ptahhotep
Characters
The main character is Ptahhotep, a vizier during the 5th Dynasty of the Old Kingdom. He is presented as an elderly statesman, full of wisdom gained from a lifetime of service to the pharaoh. Ptahhotep is addressing his son, who remains unnamed but is presumably also entering government service. The pharaoh is mentioned as a background figure, emphasizing the importance of loyal service to the crown.
3. The Teachings of Merikare
Characters
The main character is an unnamed king of the 10th Dynasty, traditionally identified as Khety III, who is addressing his son and heir, Merikare. The father is portrayed as an experienced ruler imparting wisdom gained from years of governing during a turbulent period. Merikare, as the recipient of this advice, is positioned as the future king who must navigate the challenges of rulership.
4. The Teachings of Khety
Characters
The main character is Khety, presented as a scribe and father giving advice to his son Pepy, who is beginning his education as a scribe. Khety is portrayed as knowledgeable about various professions and convinced of the superiority of the scribal profession. Various other characters appear as representatives of different trades and professions, though they are not individually named.
Plot
Also known as "The Satire of the Trades," this text doesn't have a traditional narrative plot. Instead, it's structured as a father's monologue to his son as they travel to place the son in a scribal school. Khety describes various professions in often exaggerated, negative terms, contrasting them with the supposedly superior life of a scribe. Each description serves to reinforce the message that the scribal profession is the best choice for a comfortable and respectable life.
5. The Teachings of Ani
Characters
The main character is Ani, a scribe of the 18th Dynasty, who is giving advice to his son Khonshotep. Ani is presented as a wise and experienced man, knowledgeable in the ways of society and personal conduct. Khonshotep, while not an active character in the text, is the intended recipient of the wisdom and represents the younger generation being instructed in proper behavior.
Plot
The text doesn't follow a narrative plot but is structured as a series of instructions from father to son. It covers a wide range of topics related to personal conduct, social interactions, and religious observances. Ani provides advice on how to behave in various social situations, how to manage a household, and how to properly honor the gods. The instructions are practical and aimed at helping Khonshotep navigate Egyptian society successfully.
6. The Teachings of Amenemope
Characters
The main character is Amenemope, a high-ranking official during the Ramesside period. He is presenting advice to his son, referred to as "my son" or "the son of my womb." Amenemope is portrayed as a wise and pious man, deeply concerned with ethical behavior and proper conduct. The son, though not actively participating, is the intended recipient of this wisdom.
Plot
Like many other wisdom texts, this doesn't have a traditional narrative plot. Instead, it's structured as 30 chapters of advice covering various aspects of personal, professional, and religious life. Amenemope draws on his experience to provide guidance on how to live ethically and successfully in Egyptian society. The text is notable for its emphasis on personal piety and inner virtue rather than just outward success.
