Hieroglyphs were far more than a language. They were an omnipresent and
all-powerful force in communicating the messages of ancient Egyptian
culture for over three thousand years. This ancient form of expression
was used as art, as a means of identifying Egyptian-ness, even for
communication with the gods. In this exciting new study, Penelope Wilson
explores the cultural significance of hieroglyphs with an emphasis on
previously neglected areas such as cryptography and the continuing
deciphering of the script in modern times. She covers topics like the
origins of writing in Egypt, hieroglyphic script and the Egyptian
language, hieroglyphs and art, scribes and everyday writing. She also
examines the powerful fascination hieroglyphs still hold for us today.
This book is the ideal reference for anyone with an interest in the
fascinating civilization of Ancient Egypt.