An innovative account of the life of Tutankhamun, the rediscovery of his existence, and the enduring impact of the finding of his tomb, by leading Egyptologist Aidan Dodson

The spectacular discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb in 1922 has given him an afterlife that has all but eclipsed the young king's real career. This authoritative yet accessible book tells the story of Tutankhamun, from his own lifetime in the fourteenth century BC, down to modern times. It explores the various theories as to his parentage, his role in the 'counter-reformation' that followed the religious revolution of Akhenaten, and his premature death. It also looks at the monuments built during the king's reign, his key officials, and the arrangements made for his funeral.

Moving forward in time, Tutankhamun, King of Egypt considers the way in which Tutankhamun was written out of official history. The story is then picked up again in the early nineteenth century AD when, with the first decipherment of hieroglyphs, Tutankhamun's name could once again be read, and the problem of his place in history considered by Egyptologists. Aidan Dodson traces possible solutions through the decades as more and more data came to light, culminating in the discovery of the king's tomb. Yet, dazzling as that discovery was, many matters regarding Tutankhamun remain obscure today, even with the aid of genetic data. Dodson also looks at how the discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb brought about the first of many outbreaks of "Tut-mania," and explores some of its manifestations.

Richly illustrated in full color throughout, this fascinating book by a leading Egyptologist will be essential reading for anyone interested in the life and enduring legacy of ancient Egypt's most famous king.

An innovative account of the life of Tutankhamun, the rediscovery of his existence, and the enduring impact of the finding of his tomb, by leading Egyptologist Aidan Dodson

About the Author
Aidan Dodson is honorary full Professor of Egyptology in the Department of Anthropology and Archaeology at the University of Bristol, UK, was Simpson Professor of Egyptology at the American University in Cairo in 2013, and Chair of the Egypt Exploration Society during 2011-16. Awarded his PhD by the University of Cambridge in 2003, he was elected a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of London in 2003. He is the author of some twenty-five books.

Reviews

"By far the best book on Tutankhamun on the market: up to date information and analysis, clearly written, and beautifully produced."-Lloyd Llewellyn-Jones, Cardiff University

"Dodson's historical work is ever reliable, and this volume of Tutankhamun is no exception. Focusing on narrative history, chronology, major monuments, scholarly disagreements, and the reception of the boy-king's reign, Dodson makes his mark within Egyptological Zeitgeist 100 years after the discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb."-Kara Cooney, When Women Ruled the World

PRAISE FOR NEFERTITI, QUEEN AND PHARAOH OF EGYPT:

"The most objective and well-balanced summation of her career to date . . . . This volume is well-produced and sumptuously illustrated and a fine addition to this welcome biographical series."-Morris Bierbrier, Egyptian Archaeology

"Writing an overview of Nefertiti's life and times is essentially an impossible task. . . Only a few people are up to this task, and thank Heavens that one of them is Aidan Dodson. Bravo!! Buy this book." -Stephen Harvey, Ahmose and Tetisheri Project

"This thoroughly researched, documented, and illustrated book includes maps, a chronology of dynasties, extensive endnotes, and image sources. . . Recommended. Advanced undergraduates through faculty; professionals."-CHOICE

"Dodson goes beyond prior scholarship by meticulously chronicling her life and offering up new theories about her origins and significance."-AramcoWorld

Book Information
ISBN 9781649031617
Author Aidan Dodson
Format Hardback
Page Count 216
Imprint American University in Cairo Press
Publisher American University in Cairo Press
Dimensions(mm) 229mm * 191mm * 13mm