Description
Book Synopsis
The Ptolemaic period witnessed an enormous increase in the number of hieroglyphic signs and iconographic elements (composite crowns, scepters and cult objects). The ancient scribes exploited this complexity when composing the reliefs used in temple decoration, selecting particular words, hieroglyphic signs, and iconographic elements in order to create interconnected multiple layers of meaning, forming a tapestry of sound and sight. The Theology of Hathor of Dendera examines these techniques on both micro- and macro-levels, from their smallest details to their broadest thematic connections, foregrounding individual techniques to determine the words and phrases singled out for emphasis. By synthesizing their use in the three-dimensional space of the most important cult chamber in the Temple of Hathor at Dendera, this new method of analysis not only reveals the most essential characteristics of the local theology, but also shows how the ancient scribes envisioned the universe and the place of humankind within it.
Trade Review
Table of Contents
The Myth of the Wandering Goddess and the Per-Wer Sanctuary
Word Play in the Per-Wer
Sign Play in the Per-Wer
Plays on Iconography and Epithets
The Per-Wer Sanctuary
Conclusions
Translation of the Texts in the Per-Wer Sanctuary
Appendix 1: Table of Word Plays in the Per-Wer Sanctuary
Appendix 2: Table of Sign Plays in the Per-Wer Sanctuary
Bibliography
Indexes
Subject Index
Index of Artifacts
Index of Ancient Languages
Index of Ancient Texts
Index of Transliterated Terms
