What do you think was the most important legacy of ancient Egypt, and why?
Writing - Hieroglyphics & Papyrus
Medicine - Mummification, surgical tools, plants and minerals as medicine
Science - Astronomy; Calendar
Math - Geometry; Volume/Area
Art - Frontalism
Architecture - Gridlines, Pyramids
Points Breakdown:
1 pt for identifying a legacy
1 pt for giving an example of the legacy
1 pt for explaining why this was important
One of the most important legacies of ancient Egypt was their system of writing, particularly hieroglyphics and papyrus. Hieroglyphics allowed the Egyptians to record and communicate information in a structured manner. For example, hieroglyphics were inscribed on the walls of tombs to document the lives and deeds of pharaohs. Papyrus, a type of paper made from reeds, was invented by the ancient Egyptians and was an essential medium for writing. This invention revolutionized the way information was recorded and preserved, as papyrus was more durable and convenient to use compared to other materials such as clay or stone tablets.
The significance of the ancient Egyptian writing system lies in its ability to transmit knowledge, history, and culture across generations. The ability to write and read hieroglyphics was limited to a small elite group initially, but with time, a larger portion of the population became literate. By recording their laws, religious texts, medical knowledge, and more, hieroglyphics preserved crucial aspects of ancient Egyptian civilization for centuries.
The legacy of writing and papyrus in ancient Egypt enabled the transmission of information and knowledge, creating a foundation for future civilizations to build upon. Without the ability to record and communicate effectively, the progress and development of societies would have been severely hindered. Therefore, the significance of these writing systems lies in their role as a catalyst for further advancements in various fields of study, including science, mathematics, medicine, and art.