What were the education of the ancient SUMERIANS AND EGYPTAINS? How were children taught and what subjects were they learning?
The ancient Sumerians and Egyptians had quite different educational systems.
Sumerians:
In Sumer, education was mainly intended for the elite members of society such as priests, scribes, and government officials. It was conducted in schools attached to temples. The education system was highly structured, and schools were known as "edubbas."
Children in Sumerian society began their education at a young age, usually around the age of 6 or 7. They were taught by specialized teachers known as "udu-kesda," who were skilled in reading, writing, mathematics, and other subjects.
The curriculum in Sumerian education focused on literacy and the cuneiform script, which was the writing system used in Mesopotamia at the time. Students were taught to read and write using clay tablets and styluses. They learned to write in Sumerian, the language of the region, and also studied mathematics, accounting, history, religion, and literature.
Egyptians:
In ancient Egypt, education was also primarily reserved for the elite. The educational system was more decentralized, with education being imparted in homes, local schools, and temple schools.
In Egyptian society, education began at a young age, and children were primarily taught by their parents and other family members. The skills taught were based on the practical needs of daily life. Boys were usually prepared for their future roles as scribes, priests, or government officials, while girls were trained to manage households and become good mothers.
Egyptian education focused on teaching reading, writing, and basic mathematics. The hieroglyphic script was the most complex form of writing and was mainly reserved for scribes and priests. Students would learn to read and write using simplified scripts such as hieratic or demotic. They also studied subjects such as religion, astronomy, geometry, medicine, and music. The teachings emphasized moral values, discipline, and respect for authority.
Overall, education in both ancient Sumer and Egypt was primarily reserved for the elite, and the curriculum focused on practical skills necessary for their future roles in society.