Documentaries have become a vital medium for representing Ancient Egypt, offering both Egyptians and global audiences a glimpse into their illustrious past. These visual narratives serve as educational tools, bringing to life the stories etched in stone and papyrus. However, some have been the subject of some controversy and brought about discussions on how history should be portrayed.
The Portrayal of Ancient Egypt
Documentaries about Ancient Egypt often focus on its most iconic symbols—the pyramids, the Sphinx, and the Valley of the Kings. They delve into the lives of famous Pharaohs, the construction of monumental structures, and the daily lives of the ancient Egyptians. With the help of modern technology and expert insights, these films unravel the mysteries of hieroglyphics, mummification, and the pantheon of gods that shaped the Egyptian worldview. The issue comes when modern viewpoints mix with historical fact. The Netflix documentary Queen Cleopatra had a number of issues that stemmed from its political aspirations. The over the top nature of how the drama of Cleopatra’s life unfolded presents an issue of trying to glorify her for feminist reasons, and getting an Afro-Caribbean actress to play her presents some issues as she was Macedonia Greek. Portrayals in documentaries should be as factual as possible and not try to include any modern political views like Afrocentrism and leaders should not be inherently praised or criticised simply for their place of birth, gender or the romantic legend that surrounds them. As per the words of University of Sohag Professor of Antiquities Sherif Mahmoud, “these things (dishonest portrayals) are things we Egyptians have to be wary of as they have ulterior motives and portray us in an incorrect light.”
Learning from the Past
For Egyptians, these documentaries are more than just entertainment; they are a bridge to their ancestors. They provide an understanding of the cultural and technological advancements that have influenced contemporary society. By showcasing the achievements in astronomy, mathematics, and medicine, documentaries underscore the contributions of Ancient Egypt to modern civilization. These documentaries also present significant storytelling opportunities without having to falsify information. The Netflix documentary, the Secrets of the Saqqara Tomb, presents both the modern and ancient stories behind the tombs found by archeologists and are genuinely entertaining while also presenting how and why Egyptians built such grandiose tombs. Educating while entertaining as well as giving smaller snippets of information is also what Professor Sherif believes is the best way to reach the most amount of people as it does not just appeal to the very specialised or the extremely curious, but to the every-man looking for something interesting to watch as well.Dr. Sherif Mahmoud
Inspiring the Future
The representation of Ancient Egypt in documentaries also plays a crucial role in inspiring the next generation of Egyptians. It instilled a sense of pride and identity, encouraging them to preserve and honour their heritage. Moreover, these documentaries often spark interest in archaeology and history among young viewers, potentially guiding them towards careers that further the study and preservation of their past. This also bolsters the modern movement of Egyptians becoming the leading figures in Egyptology instead of Europeans and Americans. It only makes sense for the people closest to the sites and with personal connections to Ancient Egypt to be the most effective.
Conclusion
Documentaries about Ancient Egypt are not just retellings of history; they are powerful educational tools that connect Egyptians to their rich heritage. They offer a way to understand the complexities of ancient society and its lasting impact on the world. As these documentaries continue to evolve, they will undoubtedly play a significant role in the ongoing discovery and appreciation of Egypt’s glorious past. However, Egyptians should remember that when foreigners try to present their history, they may insert foreign ideals and anachronistic views that historians should always avoid to present more factual information.