Epilogue

The epilogue returns to some of the main themes discussed in this book through the analysis of a passage found on a stela from Haremhab’s tomb. In the inscription, Haremhab shows exceptional interest in languages when he praises the god Thoth as the creator of all languages. Haremhab’s interest is rare but not unique, and this example is used to reflect upon one of the main issues raised throughout the book—whether we can ascribe agency and exceptionality to past figures when our knowledge is fragmentary at best. Through this rare reference, the epilogue touches upon the relationships between patrons, objects, concepts—and our modern perceptions of them.