History of Egypt, Chaldea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria by Gaston Maspero is a comprehensive and informative work that provides a detailed exploration of the ancient civilizations of these regions. Maspero's deep knowledge and expertise in the field of Egyptology shines through in this book, as he delves into the rich history, culture, and society of these ancient civilizations.

The book is well-structured and organized, making it easy for readers to follow the chronological development of each civilization. Maspero's writing style is engaging and accessible, making it a suitable read for both scholars and casual readers interested in ancient history.

One of the standout features of the book is Maspero's attention to detail and the depth of research he has conducted. The author presents a wealth of historical information, including insights into the political, social, and religious aspects of these ancient civilizations. Additionally, Maspero's analysis of archaeological findings and primary sources adds credibility to his narrative.

Overall, History of Egypt, Chaldea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria is a must-read for anyone interested in ancient history or the early civilizations of the Middle East. Maspero's thorough examination of these ancient cultures provides a rich and compelling account that will captivate readers and deepen their understanding of the ancient world.

Book Description:

History Of Egypt, Chaldæa, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria is the masterwork of one of the fathers of modern egyptology. This work, in twelve volumes, was translated from the French original, “Histoire ancienne des peuples de l’Orient classique” and published in 1903-1904. Maspero was a largely self-taught master of hieroglyphic translation. In November 1880, he was placed at the head of a French archeological mission, which developed later into the Institut Français d’Archéologie Orientale. Maspero then succeeded Mariette as director-general of excavations and of the antiquities of Egypt.

“Aware that his reputation was then more as a linguist than an archaeologist, Maspero’s first work in the post was to build on Mariette’s achievements at Saqqara. He expanded their scope from the early Old Kingdom to the later, with particular interest in tombs with long and complete hieroglyphic inscriptions that could help illustrate the development of the Egyptian language. Selecting five later Old Kingdom tombs, he was successful in that aim, finding over 4000 lines of hieroglyphics which were then sketched and photographed.

“As an aspect of his attempt to curtail the rampant illegal export of Egyptian antiquities by tourists, collectors and agents for the major European and American museums, Maspero arrested the Abd al-Russul brothers from the notorious treasure-hunting village of Gorna, who confessed under torture to having found the great cache of royal mummies at Deir el-Bahri in July 1881. The cache was moved to Cairo as soon as possible to keep it safe from robbers.

“In 1886 he resumed work begun by Mariette to uncover the Sphinx, removing more than 65 feet of sand and seeking tombs below it (which he did not find, but have later been found but not opened).”

Maspero went on to sponsor and expand the system of national museums and presided over the growing collection of the Bulak Museum. Maspero gave a 17 year old Howard Carter his first Egyptological job – and it was he who recommended Carter to Lord Carnarvon. Carter and Carnarvon would go on to doscover the tomb of King Tutankhaman.

In the first volume of this master work, Maspero tackles the importance of the Nile, the pantheon of Egyptian Gods, and the legendary history of Egyptian Gods.