1. Introduction

Abstract

‘Introduction’ provides an overview of ancient Egypt, beginning with the discovery of the Narmer Palette in 1898. The Narmer Palette is one of a few surviving artefacts from the Nile Valley which can act as microcosms of certain aspects of ancient Egyptian culture as a whole. For the next century or so, this object would be variously interpreted by Egyptologists attempting to solve numerous different problems, from the political origins of the Egyptian state to the nature of Egyptian art and writing. It is important to consider Greek and Roman view of Egypt and consider the link between ancient Egypt and the Bible. The emergence of Egyptology is a fascinating area to explore.