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Beginning this article are a few paragraphs dedicated to the importance of Tutankhamun's tomb and its discovery. Then it briefly discusses previous speculation as to Tutankhamun's parentage, which includes well-known names such and Akhenaten, Nefertiti, and Amenhotep III. Some examination of these mummies is given in detail, followed by the process that an Egytian team is pursuing to perform DNA and CT scan tests on Tutankhamun's and the aforementioned figures' mummies.
Although Hawass finds justification for extracting DNA samples from these mummies, one is still taking a piece of that mummy, desiccating it, even if it might just be a minute piece. I'm glad someone else has this job; I wouldn't be able to do it without thinking too much. How the Ancient Egyptians would be completely shocked to learn that, not only are their mummies on display in museums throughout the world, stripped of their protective amulets, but also being chipped away at!
We wrote an article quite recently on the problematic parentage of King Tut. It's a fascinating story, and one which funnily echoes the TV shows of today with father line-ups and DNA tests. Maybe Jeremy Kyle could get the mummies on stage - I reckon a grilling from that guy could get even the deceased to spill the beans.
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