The Archaeology of Early Egypt

'The Archaeology of Early Egypt marks a great advance in publications in this area. It is a remarkable achievement.' Professor John Baines, Oriental Institute, University of Oxford

'... ground-breaking book, which consolidates ideas developed in several articles ... an engaging and multi-faceted account that is sue to provoke discussion and debate ... for its refreshing and innovative approach, Wengrow's account deserves to become a classic interpretation of the archaeology of early Egypt.' Liam McNamara, St John's College, Oxford

'... a detailed and an insightful look into the formation of early Egyptian civilization. ... essential reading for anyone trying to understand the formation of early Egyptian burial practices, social customs, and cultural traditions and how they impacted later Egyptian history.' Near East Archaeological Society Bulletin

David Wengrow is a Lecturer at the Institute of Archaeology, University College London, where he has established a new program of study comparing ancient societies of the Middle East and Eastern Mediterranean.

Introduction: the idea of prehistory in the Middle East and North East Africa; Part I. Transformations in Prehistory: 1. Egypt and the outside world I, c.10,000-3300 BC; 2. Neolithic economy and society; 3. Domestication and embodiment in the Nile valley; 4. The urbanisation of the dead: Naqada I-II; 5. Image, ritual and the construction of identity in late prehistory; Part II. The Making of Kingship: 6. Opening considerations: la mmoire monarchique; 7. Egypt and the outside world II, c.3300-2500 BC; 8. The evolution of simplicity: Naqada III; 9. Extraordinary bodies and binding truths: early writing in context; 10. Theatres of sacrifice: dynastic constructions of death; Conclusion: subterranean histories of power.