Mummification in Ancient Egypt

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Introduction

Mummification is a sophisticated process of preserving dead bodies of animals and human beings. The ritual has been embraced in Egypt since time immemorial (Bogg par. 5). Evidently, Egyptians have always believed in life after death. As a result, they preserve dead bodies to ensure that they are sanctified and fully prepared for eternity.

Research done indicates that Egyptians have for a long time believed that if a dead body is not preserved, the soul might not get back to the body as expected. Furthermore, this process is perceived to be of great significance in Egyptian culture bearing in mind that it has been practiced right from ancient times (Booth 7).

How mummification is done

The ritual practice passes through series of steps before is completed (Anon. par. 1). However, it is worth noting that it has evolved from a simple to more complex process with time. For instance, it may take up to 70 days to complete the entire process of mummification since it is done with extra caution to achieve the much needed perfection (Pilgrim par. 3). The initial stage entails cleaning of the body with adequate water. It is then anointed with oil for purposes of purification.

Moreover, the embalmers dissect the abdomen to empty the stomach whereby several organs are removed. Some of the internal organs that are removed include the lungs and intestines while the heart is left behind. On the other hand, the brain is liquefied and emptied through nostrils (Writer873 par. 4). In line with this, embalmers desiccate the body by dehydrating it using salt. Finally, preservatives are poured into the body for the sake of preservation.

What I have learnt from the research topic

However, according to the research done, it is evident that the practice is no longer common among the modern Egyptian society (Monet par. 2). This is largely due to the fact that majority are not comfortable with mummification arguing that te dead preserved bodies are eventually eaten by wild beasts.

Currently, Egyptians purchase coffins to burry dead bodies. Moreover, with the growth of Christianity, there is a general negative tendency towards the practice since it grossly contrasts Christian teachings and belief systems (Nicholson & Shaw 113).

How I will you go about further research? What sorts of primary/secondary sources do you expect to utilize?

Certainly, in my further research, I need first-hand information which I will obtain by collecting both primary and secondary data such as observation, photographing and taking video. Use of questionnaires and interviews from knowledgeable people will also come in handy in learning more about mummification. Additionally, secondary sources are necessary since supportive information is required. This will entail use of published materials such as books, articles and historical films on mummification (University of Victoria Libraries par 4).

Primary and secondary sources

To begin with, my primary source of data will include attending exhibition shows to observe and take photographs as embalmers practice the ritual. Through this, I am expecting to learn how mummification is done practically. Photographs taken might be used for demonstration as well as vital points of reference.

In order to support primary sources, it will be imperative to incorporate secondary sources in the research study. For example, I will take the initiative to study written materials related to mummification. The latter will include journals, magazines, books and internet based sources. Some of the online sources that will be used in the study have been incorporated in the reference list.

Indeed, secondary sources will provide the much needed theoretical information on how mummification was valued and practiced by Egyptian natives. Additionally, the aforementioned secondary sources will also enable me obtain data that might be scarcely available when gathering data using primary sources (University of Victoria Libraries par 2).

Works Cited

Anon. Mummification in ancient Egypt. 2003. Web.

Bogg, Jessica. Ancient Egyptian Mummification. 2007. Web.

Booth, Charlotte. The Ancient Egyptians for Dummies. West Sussex: John Wiley & sons, 2007. Print.

Monet, Jefferson. An Overview of Mummification in Ancient Egypt. 2011. Web.

Nicholson, Paul & Shaw, Ian. Ancient Egyptian materials and technology. New York: Cambridge University Press, 2000. Print.

Pilgrim,Gray. MummificationFacts. 2010. Web.

University of Victoria libraries. Primary versus secondary sources. 2011. Web.

Mummification in Ancient Egypt. 1970. Web.

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