A lively new biography of Tutankhamun—published for the hundredth anniversary of his tomb’s modern discovery
The discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922 sparked imaginations across the globe. While Howard Carter emptied its treasures, Tut-mania gripped the world—and in many ways, never left. But who was the “boy king,” and what was his life really like?
Garry J. Shaw tells the full story of Tutankhamun’s reign and his modern rediscovery. As pharaoh, Tutankhamun had to manage an empire, navigate influential courtiers, and suffer the pain of losing at least two children—all before his nineteenth birthday. Shaw explores the boy king’s treasures and possessions, from a lock of his grandmother’s hair to a reed cut with his own hands. He looks too at Ankhesenamun, Tutankhamun’s wife, and the power queens held. This is a compelling new biography that weaves together intriguing details about ancient Egyptian culture, its beliefs, and its place in the wider world.
Publisher: Yale University Press
ISBN: 9780300267433
Number of pages: 208
Dimensions: 216 x 140 mm
“Using the most up-to-date archaeological and art historical evidence, Shaw presents his preferred version of Tutankhamun’s life robustly and well, with a view to presenting Tutankhamun as a living, breathing human being rather than a demi-god. . . . The book requires little previous knowledge of ancient Egypt, if any, and is highly recommended as an introduction to Tutankhamun’s world.”—Nigel Fletcher-Jones, thepast.com“An ideal introduction for those new to the field, and a comprehensive survey for those who have been fortunate to see many of the tomb treasures since they have been exhibited from 1962 onwards.”—Nicholas Cranfield, Church Times“Overall, this is a lively and readable book, which should encourage a continuing fascination with the young pharaoh.”—Hilary Forrest, Ancient Egypt Magazine“Shaw’s compelling portrait of the young pharaoh in life and in death is based on the latest research and impeccable sources. Here we move far beyond Carter and Carnarvon into the life of the king himself. This brilliant achievement will appeal to anyone interested in archaeology and ancient Egypt. A lovely book!”—Brian Fagan, author of Lord and Pharaoh“A fascinating, up-to-date and superbly well-informed account of Egypt’s most famous Pharaoh. Shaw has done a wonderful job.”—Robert Twigger, author of Red Nile“This exceptional account not only brings the reign of Tutankhamun back to life, it also shows the ruler in a new light, not only as king of ancient Egypt, but as a human being.”—Christina Geisen, University of Cambridge“Tutankhamun and his tomb have captured the hearts of all of us. His story contains the thrill of magic and curses. This book brings with it more magic with a new take on the time of the golden boy.”—Zahi Hawass, author of Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs“Shaw writes in an engaging manner, with the erudition of a scholar and the flair of a journalist.”—Ronald J. Leprohon, University of Toronto
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