Lesson 9: Daily Life in Egypt
How did social class affect daily life in ancient Egypt?
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Egyptian society was structured like a pyramid. At the very top of this social pyramid was the pharaoh, Egypt's supreme ruler. Egyptian religion strengthened the pharaoh's authority. Pharaohs were believed to be gods, and their word was law.
Next in importance were several layers of social classes. The classes near the top of the pyramid had fewer people and enjoyed higher status. The classes nearer the bottom had greater numbers of people but lower status.
Ancient Egypt’s Social Pyramid
Ancient Egypt’s Social Pyramid
The terms used can vary slightly. For example, craftsmen and artisans are the same thing.
Summary:
Government Officials This was the highest social class after the pharaoh. Many officials were nobles who inherited their jobs, but some rose to power. Three key officials were the vizier, the chief treasurer, and the general of the armies.
Priests Priests were powerful and respected. They advised the pharaoh, oversaw religious ceremonies, took care of temple gods, and prepared bodies for the afterlife.
Scribes Scribes were Egypt's official writers and record keepers. They were well paid and respected. They trained for many years in special schools to learn hieroglyphs, Egypt's writing symbols. Boys from several social classes could become scribes.
Artisans or Craftsmen These highly skilled laborers created beautiful objects but got little respect. Stone carvers were among the most skilled and important artisans.
Peasants This lowest and largest social class grew crops that supplied food and also helped build monuments such as the pyramids. Peasants' lives revolved around the three seasons of the Nile River.
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