Project Gutenberg
2009-11-20
Public domain in the USA.
2790
Ptahhotep
Kagemna
Gunn, Battiscombe G. (Battiscombe George)
1883
1950
The Instruction of Ptah-Hotep and the Instruction of Ke'Gemni
The Oldest Books in the World
Produced by Al Haines
"The Instruction of Ptah-Hotep and the Instruction of Ke'Gemni" by Ptahhotep et al. is a collection of ancient Egyptian didactic texts, considered among the oldest books in the world, written during the early 3rd millennium BC. This work serves as a compilation of moral aphorisms and practical advice on various aspects of life, showcasing the values and social norms of ancient Egyptian society. The texts are part of the broader genre of wisdom literature, focusing on themes of ethics, conduct, and interpersonal relations. The book is divided into two main parts: first, "The Instruction of Ptah-Hotep," which offers practical wisdom on a wide range of topics, including humility, kindness, and the importance of good speech. It emphasizes the value of learning and respectful communication, advising readers to be gracious and just in their interactions. The second part, "The Instruction of Ke'Gemni," focuses more on the proper conduct at social gatherings and the importance of restraint and moderation in personal behavior. Together, these texts not only reflect the moral teachings of their time but also provide insights into the cultural priorities of ancient Egypt, highlighting universal themes of human behavior and ethics that resonate through the ages. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
http://book.klll.cc/files/30508/30508-h/images/img-cover.jpg
Reading ease score: 69.1 (8th & 9th grade). Neither easy nor difficult to read.
en
Conduct of life -- Early works to 1800
Maxims -- Early works to 1800
PJ
Text
Category: History - Ancient
Category: Philosophy & Ethics
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