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Family Life
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An important man might have many wives (the king had hundreds). The chief wife was her husband's partner. She ran the house, and she owned the household goods. She did not have to do much housework because she had servants, who also helped with her clothes and makeup and arranged her hair.
Among rich people, marriages were arranged. The king married foreign princesses for political reasons. Other marriages were based on love and respect. Husband and wife were often painted with arms around each other. Families were large, with five or six children.
(A) SERVANTS
A rich Egyptian family had servants to work for them.
(B) PETS
The Egyptians were fond of animals. They kept birds and monkeys, as well as cats and dogs.
(C) A HOUSEHOLD GOD
Gods lived in ordinary houses as well as temples. Bes was a favourite god during the New Kingdom.
(D) BEAUTY TREATMENT
Here a woman is making herself beautiful. After a thorough wash, she puts on her jewellery and does her hair. Then she makes up her face. Most important are the eyes. She gives them a dark outline with kohl.
(E) CHILDREN
The Egyptians enjoyed family life and liked children. Parents expected their children to respect them and obey them.
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Previous:
Back
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Book:
The Egyptians
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Section:
Ancient Egypt
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Chapter:
Family Life
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