Lecture | The role of animals in the Egyptian imagination

Observed since the predynastic period, the Egyptians’ animal worship practices and zoomorphic representation of gods distinguished them from other peoples. They maintained a singular relationship with animals, which were omnipresent in daily life and religious beliefs. Associated with various divinities based on their physical or behavioural attributes, animals were considered manifestations of the gods, acting as intermediaries between deities and humans. Cats, dogs, fish, reptiles, and all other manner of animal species accompanied people to the beyond after having been mummified. Researchers have discovered vast necropolises containing over 20 million animal mummies!

Presented to coincide with the exhibition Egypt. Three Millennia on the Nile, this fascinating lecture by historian Jean Revez will examine some of the most iconic animals in the ancient Egyptian bestiary. Hear about the roles they played in Egyptian daily life… and in life after death. Learn more about animal mummification practices, several examples of which are on display in the exhibition.

This captivating, final lecture on ancient Egypt will be held twice: at 11 am and at 1 pm. Reserve now to make sure you don’t miss it!

Lecturer: Jean Revez has been a professor in the Department of History at the Université du Québec à Montréal (UQÀM) since 2007. He teaches the history and civilization of Ancient Egypt and the Ancient Near East.