28775 - Egyptian Epigraphy (1) (LM)

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course the student attains a basic knowledge of Egyptian grammar and the principles on which hieroglyphic writing is based, the pictographic and monumental aspects of which are emphasised during the course. Furthermore, he/she learns the stylistic conventions of ancient Egypt relating to the composition of epigraphs and is able to read and interpret inscriptions in hieroglyphic characters found on buildings and in archaeological contexts.

Course contents

1) Introduction to the hieroglyphic writing system and its monumental context
2) Introduction to the epigraphic tools and methodology
Part of the course focuses on some verbal forms and on the translation and analysis of some epigraphic texts of the Middle Kingdom.

Participation in the course is recommended only for those who have attended, or will attend in the academic year 2025-2026, the Egyptology course (12 CFU) or to those who already have basic knowledge of the ancient Egyptian language.

Readings/Bibliography

J.P. Allen, Middle Egyptian. An Introduction to the Language and Culture of Hieroglyphs, Cambridge University Press 2014

 

Non-attending students will study the chapters 1-10, 12, 13, 17 and 18 in J.P. Allen, Middle Egyptian. An Introduction to the Language and Culture of Hieroglyphs, Cambridge University Press 2014.

Teaching methods

Frontal lessons. A few texts in hieroglyphic writing of the Middle Kingdom will be read, analyzed and commented in class.

Assessment methods

Students who attend at least 75% of the lessons are considered to be attending.

Oral exam, during which students will have the opportunity to demonstrate an understanding in Egyptian hieroglyphs, demonstrate an understanding in simple Egyptian grammar and demonstrate the ability to translate and analyse at least one of the epigraphic texts translated during the course.

Students who show a solid command of the Egyptian language and an equally good awareness of its grammatical aspects receive an excellent mark. Students with a lesser degree of linguistic competence receive a lower mark. Students who apply their grammatical knowledge mechanically, without showing an adequate awareness of the connections between grammar, meaning and context, who have not acquired the capacity to analyze an epigraphic text do not pass the exam. 

 

During the academic year, ten examination appointments are scheduled, one every month with the exception of October and August.

Teaching tools

Photocopies with hieroglyphic inscriptions and powepoints.

The course material will be available on VIRTUALE.

Students with learning disorders and\or temporary or permanent disabilities: please, contact the office responsible (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en/for-students ) as soon as possible so that they can propose acceptable adjustments. The request for adaptation must be submitted in advance (15 days before the exam date) to the lecturer, who will assess the appropriateness of the adjustments, taking into account the teaching objectives.

Office hours

See the website of Marco Zecchi