The Instruction of Ptah-Hotep and the Instruction of Ke'Gemni by Ptahhotep et al.
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"The Instruction of Ptah-Hotep and the Instruction of Ke'Gemni" by Ptahhotep et al. is a collection of ancient Egyptian didactic texts, considered among the oldest books in the world, written during the early 3rd millennium BC. This work serves as a compilation of moral aphorisms and practical advice on various aspects of life, showcasing the values and social norms of ancient Egyptian society. The texts are part of the broader genre of
wisdom literature, focusing on themes of ethics, conduct, and interpersonal relations. The book is divided into two main parts: first, "The Instruction of Ptah-Hotep," which offers practical wisdom on a wide range of topics, including humility, kindness, and the importance of good speech. It emphasizes the value of learning and respectful communication, advising readers to be gracious and just in their interactions. The second part, "The Instruction of Ke'Gemni," focuses more on the proper conduct at social gatherings and the importance of restraint and moderation in personal behavior. Together, these texts not only reflect the moral teachings of their time but also provide insights into the cultural priorities of ancient Egypt, highlighting universal themes of human behavior and ethics that resonate through the ages. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
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About this eBook
| Author | Ptahhotep |
|---|---|
| Author | Kagemna |
| Translator | Gunn, Battiscombe G. (Battiscombe George), 1883-1950 |
| Title |
The Instruction of Ptah-Hotep and the Instruction of Ke'Gemni The Oldest Books in the World |
| Credits | Produced by Al Haines |
| Reading Level | Reading ease score: 69.1 (8th & 9th grade). Neither easy nor difficult to read. |
| Language | English |
| LoC Class | PJ: Language and Literatures: Oriental languages and literatures |
| Subject | Conduct of life -- Early works to 1800 |
| Subject | Maxims -- Early works to 1800 |
| Category | Text |
| eBook-No. | 30508 |
| Release Date | Nov 20, 2009 |
| Last Update | Jan 5, 2021 |
| Copyright | Public domain in the USA. |
| Downloads | 2699 downloads in the last 30 days. |
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