Ancient Egyptian Myths and Legends (Myths & Legends from Around the World)
Myths & Legends From Around The World Series
What’s inside...
This is one in a series of books that retells some of the most famous myths and legends from around the world. To aid children's understanding of the tales, the books include brief biographies of the featured heroes, villains and gods. The book retells a variety of ancient Egyptian myths and legends about magical worlds, gods and goddesses, humans, fantastic creatures, battles for power, and murderous plots, explaining their origins and lasting popularity.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-12
Length
47 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What similarities and differences can you find between the ancient Egyptian myths and legends and the stories or fairy tales you know?
How do you think the beliefs of ancient Egyptians shaped the stories they told?
Why do you think people created myths and legends in ancient times?
What can we learn about ancient Egyptian culture from these myths and legends?
Which character from the myths do you find most interesting and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on a myth from the book to set a reflective tone. Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts, whether it's through drawing or storytelling, to deepen their connection with the material. Use comparisons to familiar stories or current events to make the content more relatable. Lastly, ask your child to imagine their own myth or legend, drawing on the elements from the book’s stories.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of honesty
Explanation: Many myths from Ancient Egypt emphasize the consequences of deceit and the value of being truthful. For example, the myth of Isis and Osiris teaches about honesty's role in trust and relationships.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding the importance of telling the truth and seeing how honesty builds trust in their relationships with family and friends.
Example Lesson: Resilience and perseverance
Explanation: The tale of the journey of the sun god, Ra, through the underworld each night reflects the themes of resilience and overcoming obstacles, as Ra must navigate challenges to rise again each morning.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to persist through difficulties, whether in their schoolwork, sports, or personal challenges, inspired by Ra's nightly journey.
Example Lesson: Justice and fairness
Explanation: The story of Ma'at, the goddess of justice and harmony, highlights the importance of maintaining balance and fairness, which is crucial for societal order and personal wellbeing.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of fairness in their play and interactions, promoting a sense of justice in classroom and home activities.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: Ancient Egyptians held animals and the natural world in high regard, which is evident in their gods' depiction, many of whom are represented with animal characteristics, showing the interconnectedness of all life.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and care for the environment and understand the role of every creature within the ecosystem.
Example Lesson: The power of knowledge
Explanation: Thoth, the god of wisdom and knowledge, often depicted in tales as a mediator in disputes and a possessor of secret knowledge, illustrates the power and respect accorded to knowledge.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to value education, be curious, and continually seek knowledge.