Discussing the Monolithic Given: Masculinity in Ancient Egyptian Art and Culture
College
College of Visual and Performing Arts
Department
Fine Arts
Faculty Mentor
Kathleen Burke, M.F.A.
Abstract
The study of masculinity with all of its influences and nuances is often grossly overlooked, or even assumed, when discussing ancient cultures. In the study of ancient Egyptian art and culture, such an oversight can lead to incomplete interpretations and create an unrealistic idea about their culture and beliefs. Masculinity plays a key role in concepts such as creation, reproduction, life, and death in ancient Egyptian culture and these concepts are prevalent in the majority of Egyptian works of art, folklore, and mythology. Even while dominated by a small population of elite males, Egyptian art shows diverse interpretations of existing concepts of masculinity, which are dependent upon the time period, social status, and economic conditions of those it is reflected upon. Examining these conditions, their effects on masculinity, and the reflection of these effects in the art and culture of the times in statuary, stone carvings, paintings, language, mythology, and legends help to create a fuller understanding of gender and ancient Egyptian culture.
Start Date
24-4-2015 3:50 PM
Discussing the Monolithic Given: Masculinity in Ancient Egyptian Art and Culture
DiGiorgio Campus Center, Room 221
The study of masculinity with all of its influences and nuances is often grossly overlooked, or even assumed, when discussing ancient cultures. In the study of ancient Egyptian art and culture, such an oversight can lead to incomplete interpretations and create an unrealistic idea about their culture and beliefs. Masculinity plays a key role in concepts such as creation, reproduction, life, and death in ancient Egyptian culture and these concepts are prevalent in the majority of Egyptian works of art, folklore, and mythology. Even while dominated by a small population of elite males, Egyptian art shows diverse interpretations of existing concepts of masculinity, which are dependent upon the time period, social status, and economic conditions of those it is reflected upon. Examining these conditions, their effects on masculinity, and the reflection of these effects in the art and culture of the times in statuary, stone carvings, paintings, language, mythology, and legends help to create a fuller understanding of gender and ancient Egyptian culture.
