Antiquarianism And Meddlesome Europeans In Egypt By Waxman

598 Words2 Pages

In this chapter, Waxman examines the effects, both good and bad, of antiquarianism and meddlesome Europeans in Egypt. The author begins by describing the work undertaken by Napoleon and his savants, Jean-Francois Champollion and Giovanni Belzoni. Although, they have helped in the gathering of information and understanding of Egypt’s ancient past, one cannot ignore the negative effects, such as looting, that they have caused. The chapter ends in a discussion of the controversy surrounding the infamous bust of Nefertiti and asking the reader whether it is Germany or Egypt that the bust belongs to. Rather than answering the question, Waxman concludes that perhaps we should concentrate on an exchange of culture instead of arguing over who possesses what. …show more content…

The invaluable information that the French gathered was the beginning of Egyptology and Europe was entranced by Egypt’s exotic and awe-inspiring designs. However, Waxman argues that this craze for Egypt opened the door to the exploitation of its cultural heritage. The rediscovery of Egypt by the savants started the many years of looting as all of Europe clamored to own a piece of Egyptian history. Conversely, Waxman believes that Jean-Francois Champollion’s work on the Rosetta stone completely changed what we know of ancient Egyptians. By discerning that the hieroglyphics were comprised of ideographic and phonetic signs, he made a wealth of information accessible. That being said, Waxman thought it important to note that despite all the good Champollion achieved, he too, was not above looting and bringing back to tomb

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