The Rise and Fall of Ancient Egypt by Toby Wilkinson

Howard Carter in 1922, along with three companions including the Earl of Carnarvon, walked down the newly discovered steps in the bedrock of the Valley of Kings. The 26^th November will long be remembered for one thing only, the day Carter brought Egyptology to the masses by discovering King Tutankhamen’s tomb.

Although discovered weeks earlier, Carter had to wait for Carnarvon’s arrival before he would step inside the tomb for the first time. Days later Carter went in search of the burial chamber and after digging a small hole crawled through the various chambers to discover the stone sarcophagus.

We owe a lot to Howard Carter determination and Carnarvon’s money – we know money was running out and had it not been discovered on the final dig, who knows if Tutankhamen’s sarcophagus would have been found – ever. The discovery led to a fascination with Egyptology that is unparalleled in modern history.

Toby Wilkinson’s “The Rise and Fall of Ancient Egypt”, along with its wonderful narrative and beautiful imagery is a stunning look at life from the dawn of civilisation to the death of Cleopatra in 30 BC aged just 39 years old.

Although a massive book, which in itself can be rather daunting, Wilkinson’s narrative is refreshing. He makes Egyptology approachable as we welcome a relaxed style that educates and entertains throughout.

Wilkinson’s passion for Egypt is evident from the outset, his enthusiasm and knowledge for hieroglyphics is contagious, his narrative coming to life as he shares the historic complexity of centuries old.

The River Nile is one of the most widely known rivers in the world and the banks hold centuries of secrets, betrayal, and discovery, the pyramids, religion, violence and beauty.

I can’t begin to tell you when I was first introduced to Egyptian history, embarrassingly I may have to admit to being captivated with Elizabeth Taylor’s portrayal of Cleopatra (years after it was originally released in 1963 I hasten to add!) – But like most historians will no doubt tell you – all publicity is good publicity!

Cleopatra, the final ruler of Ancient Egypt, and ancestor of Alexander the Great was Greek. She was a member of the Ptolemaic dynasty but in contrast to other Ptolemy she took the trouble to learn Egyptian and considered Egypt her home. Curiously we learn that during the height of her popularity she travelled across the Tiber to Rome as a guest of Caesar’s. She remained on his estate for two years. She returned a month following Caesar’s assassination and eventually transformed, achieving apotheosis, as the living Isis.

Food shortages ensued and brought about hunger and despair. For the first time in centuries, Egyptians questioned the afterlife and their Faith. It was the beginning of the end.

Wilkinson covers so much more in this involving and magnificent history of Ancient Egypt from its military might, the ruthlessness of Ramesses, and the civil war that tore Egypt apart. Add to that a wonderful assortment of illustrations; “The Rise and fall of Ancient Egypt” is without doubt the premier narrative on Egyptology available today.

Published by Bloomsbury “The Rise and fall of Ancient Egypt” is available from Waterstones & Amazon.