Math Puzzles’ Oldest Ancestors Took Form on Egyptian Papyrus

Originally published: December 6, 2010 | the New York Times | by Pam Belluck | In ancient Egypt, math had a practical purpose. I doubt any scribe worth his hekat would question the reason he was solving any of these 85 problems, as modern students in the lower grades tend to do. I would say that it's not so surprising that most of the solutions to the problems in the Rhind Mathematical Papyrus are accurate. Ahmes' estimation of the value for Pi is almost spot-on. Therefore, it's no surprise that this culture built pyramids, the construction of which we moderns still can't fathom pursuing with tools that were known to have been used back them. For lack of a better defense: They were very clever.

Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous Egyptians

Originally published January 21, 2010 | Heritage Key | by Paula Veiga | An article examining the backgrounds and lifestyles of rich Egyptians (including priests and kings). These leisurely activities and ammenities included eating and drinking parties and banquets, personal hygiene rituals, quality of dress, love and marriage, and more, linking these topics to examples of their modern day counterparts.

Upcoming Events at the British Museum

Accessed August 25, 2009 | The British Museum

If you are near the British Museum during September through December, here are a few Ancient Egypt-related gallery talks and family activities. All of the following are free. I envy those who are able to make it to these events.

• Galler Talk - August 29: The Tomb-Chapel of Nebamun, given by Lorna Oakes
• Gallery Talk - September 2: Ancient Egyptian Funerary Temples, given by Lorna Oakes
• Gallery Talk - September 10: Looking at Ancient Egyptian Basketry: Technology, Design, Continuity, given by Barbara Willis and Gemma Aboe
• Family Activity - October 24: Making Mummies
• Gallery Talk - October 31: The Life and Times of the Scribe Nebamun at Thebes, given by George Hart