Ancient Egypt: Chronicles of an Empire — Season 1, Episode 4: Cult of the Dead
Documentary • 50 min • 1 season, 8 episodes • ★ 7.7/10
Episode synopsis
Ancient Egypt is famous for its cult of the dead. Tomb complexes, mummies and fabulous treasures fire people's imagination to this day. Back then, it played a central role for the Egyptians. Episode 4 of ANCIENT EGYPT – Chronicles of an Empire tells the story behind this cult. Long before King Narmer united Upper and Lower Egypt for the first time around 3100 BC, the people along the Nile are burying their dead in the desert sand. They observe that a corpse does not decompose and that the body is preserved. This observation is the basis for a cult of the dead that has lasted for thousands of years. It is based on the belief that eternal life in the hereafter is only possible via a preserved body in this world. The documentary traces the development and the embellishment of the cult of the dead.
About Ancient Egypt: Chronicles of an Empire
Around 5000 years ago, one of the largest and most powerful empires in history emerged on the Nile – Ancient Egypt. This mysterious era continues to fascinate us. In eight episodes, this series shows the unique achievements of the ancient Egyptians in government, culture, and society. International scientists and researchers decode the facets of this advanced civilisation. The first territorial state in history was founded more than 3000 years ago – making it older than any nation in existence today. Crises keep dividing the region and causing chaos, and it is these phases that the people on the Nile fear the most. They know that only order and stability can lead to prosperity. Egyptians are given a sense of identity and unity by their diverse cultures.