Daily Life in Ancient Egypt

In ancient Egypt, people lived in a fascinating world filled with unique customs and traditions. Let's explore what daily life was like for different individuals in this ancient civilization. 

Daily Life for Kids:

Daily life for kids in ancient Egypt was filled with adventure, learning, and important responsibilities. Children in this civilization had similar joys and responsibilities as kids do today, but with a unique Egyptian twist.

Education played a vital role in the lives of Egyptian children. Boys and girls attended schools where they learned reading, writing, math, and even music. They studied hieroglyphics, the fascinating system of writing used in ancient Egypt. Teachers, known as scribes, guided them in mastering these skills. It was an exciting time for children as they learned to read stories, write their names, and perform basic calculations. They also learned about their rich history and the fascinating myths and legends of ancient Egypt.

Outside the classroom, children engaged in playful activities. They loved playing games like Senet, which was a popular board game involving strategy and luck. Another favorite game was Mehen, where players raced their pieces along a spiral-shaped board. Children also enjoyed playing with dolls, balls, and animal-shaped toys. These toys were often made from materials like wood or clay.

While education and play were important, children also had responsibilities at home. They helped their families with various tasks such as fetching water from the Nile River, grinding grains to make flour, and taking care of younger siblings. Boys sometimes accompanied their fathers in the fields, learning about farming and helping with agricultural work. Girls learned essential skills from their mothers, such as cooking, weaving, and managing household chores.

Family was highly valued in ancient Egypt, and children had deep respect for their parents and elders. They looked up to their fathers as strong providers and protectors. They admired their mothers for their nurturing and homemaking skills. Children were taught to show gratitude and love towards their parents and grandparents. They learned important values like respect, obedience, and the importance of family bonds.

Religion played a significant role in the daily lives of Egyptian children. They accompanied their families to temples for religious ceremonies and observed the rituals performed by the priests. They learned about the many gods and goddesses of ancient Egypt and the belief in an afterlife. Children were encouraged to be pious and respectful towards the gods, as religion was an integral part of their culture.

Despite the differences in time and place, the daily life of children in ancient Egypt shared some similarities with children today. They attended school, played games, helped their families, and cherished their relationships. However, the rich history, intriguing mythology, and unique cultural practices of ancient Egypt added a touch of wonder and excitement to their everyday experiences.

Daily Life for Adult Males:

Adult men in ancient Egypt had different roles and responsibilities. Some worked as farmers, growing crops like wheat and barley that were essential for food. Others were craftsmen who specialized in carpentry, pottery, or jewelry making. Some men served in the army or worked as scribes, who were responsible for recording important information for the government. Men also participated in religious ceremonies and rituals to show their devotion to the gods. They enjoyed socializing, playing sports, and spending time with their families.

Daily Life for Adult Females:

Women in ancient Egypt played important roles within their families and society. Some worked alongside their husbands in farming or craft activities, while others managed households and took care of children. They made sure their families were well taken care of. Women had certain rights and could own property, do business, and even initiate divorces. They participated in religious ceremonies and had access to religious positions, such as priestesses. Women enjoyed beauty and fashion, wearing beautiful jewelry and using cosmetics like kohl for their eyes. They also valued education and could be skilled in reading and writing.

Daily Life for Priests:

Priests played important roles as intermediaries between the people and the gods. They conducted religious rituals, took care of temples, and looked after sacred objects. Priests led ceremonies and made sure that religious rites were performed correctly. They received education and training in religious practices and were highly respected in their communities. Their lives revolved around devotion to the gods and ensuring the spiritual well-being of society.

Daily Life for Royals:

Members of the royal family lived lives of luxury and privilege. Pharaohs, the kings or queens of Egypt, held immense power and were seen as divine rulers. They lived in grand palaces, had many servants, and enjoyed the finest food and clothing. Royalty engaged in activities such as hunting, attending extravagant feasts, and overseeing the kingdom's administration. They wore elaborate jewelry, crowns, and ceremonial clothing to show their status. The pharaohs played a vital role in maintaining the well-being and stability of Egypt.

Daily Life for Scribes and Viziers:

Scribes had important roles in ancient Egypt as record-keepers and administrators. They worked in government offices, temples, and the royal court. Scribes wrote down important events, recorded legal documents, and kept track of resources. They received extensive education and training to master the complex hieroglyphic writing system. Viziers were high-ranking officials who advised the pharaohs. They managed the government, collected taxes, and ensured justice and order in the kingdom. Their role involved making important decisions and overseeing the bureaucracy.

In ancient Egypt, daily life was filled with unique traditions and customs. Whether as children, adults, slaves, priests, royals, scribes, or viziers, each person had a significant role in contributing to the well-being and prosperity of society. Their daily activities, duties, and aspirations shaped the vibrant tapestry of ancient Egyptian civilization. 

Information compiled in this site come from the following sources; British Museum, Metropolitan Museum of Art, Smithsonian Institute, Brooklyn Museum of Art, Acropolis Museum, Encyclopedia Britannica, Egypt Time Travel, Journey to Egypt, Getty Institute, Boston Museum of Fine Art 

If you have edits you would like to suggest, please email Michael.Veley@ship.k12.pa.us