Review of Women in the Valley of the Kings: The Untold Story of Women Egyptologists in the Gilded Age by Kathleen Sheppard

Review of Women in the Valley of the Kings: The Untold Story of Women Egyptologists in the Gilded Age by Kathleen Sheppard (Pics: Goodreads.com)

BOOKS.BIZ.ID - Women in the Valley of the Kings: The Untold Story of Women Egyptologists in the Gilded Age by Kathleen Sheppard is a groundbreaking work that brings to light the overlooked contributions of women in the field of Egyptology during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This meticulously researched book not only challenges the male-dominated narrative of Egyptian exploration but also celebrates the courage, intelligence, and perseverance of women who paved the way for future generations of archaeologists.

Revisiting the Golden Age of Exploration

The book begins by setting the stage during the so-called Golden Age of Exploration, a period typically associated with prominent male figures like Howard Carter, who famously discovered the tomb of King Tutankhamun. 

However, Sheppard quickly disrupts this narrative by introducing readers to a group of remarkable women who were actively engaged in exploration and archaeological work long before their male counterparts claimed the spotlight.

Pioneers in Egyptology: Uncovering Forgotten Stories

Sheppard’s narrative starts with some of the earliest European women who ventured to Egypt as travelers and explorers. Among them were Amelia Edwards, Jenny Lane, and Marianne Brocklehurst, whose travelogues, diaries, and maps provided some of the earliest comprehensive accounts of Egypt’s ancient wonders. These women, armed with curiosity and a passion for discovery, defied societal norms and documented their experiences in a way that would inspire future explorers.

One of the most notable figures in the book is Maggie Benson, the first woman to be granted permission to excavate in Egypt. Benson’s story is particularly compelling, not only because of her archaeological achievements but also due to her lifelong partnership with Nettie Gourlay. Together, they faced and overcame numerous challenges, including the pervasive issues of gender oppression and exclusion. Their work at the Temple of Mut stands as a testament to their determination and skill, laying the groundwork for women in the field of Egyptology.

The Legacy of Women in Egyptology

As Sheppard traces the contributions of these pioneering women, she highlights how each success in the desert set the stage for the next generation of female Egyptologists. Emma Andrews, a patron and archaeologist, played a significant role in enabling Margaret Murray to teach and conduct research. Murray’s academic contributions, in turn, opened doors for artists like Amice Calverley and Myrtle Broome, who created stunning reproductions of tomb art at Abydos.

The book also delves into the leadership roles that women like Kate Bradbury and Caroline Ransom held in critical Egyptological institutions. These women not only contributed to the academic and practical aspects of Egyptology but also helped shape the field’s future by mentoring and supporting other women. 

A Shift in Perspective: Challenging the Grand Male Narrative

One of the most significant achievements of Women in the Valley of the Kings is its ability to upend the traditional, male-centric narrative of Egyptian exploration. Sheppard presents a compelling argument that the contributions of these women were not mere footnotes in history but were, in fact, crucial to the development of modern Egyptology. 

By bringing these untold stories to the forefront, Sheppard challenges readers to reconsider the history of exploration and acknowledge the often-overlooked impact of women in the field.

Kathleen Sheppard: A Scholar and Storyteller

Kathleen Sheppard’s background as a historian of science with a deep interest in Egyptology makes her uniquely qualified to tell this story. Her passion for uncovering the stories of women like Margaret Murray is evident in her thorough research and engaging writing style. Sheppard’s ability to weave historical facts with personal anecdotes and vivid descriptions of the challenges these women faced makes the book both informative and captivating.

Sheppard’s academic credentials, including an MA in Egyptian Archaeology from University College London and a PhD in History of Science from the University of Oklahoma, lend credibility to her work. Her position as a professor at Missouri S&T and her involvement with the American Research Center in Egypt further underscore her expertise in the field.

Conclusion: A Must-Read for History and Egyptology Enthusiasts

Women in the Valley of the Kings is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of Egyptology, women’s history, or the broader field of archaeology. Kathleen Sheppard’s book not only fills a significant gap in the historical record but also serves as an inspiration for future generations of scholars and explorers. By shining a light on the untold stories of these pioneering women, Sheppard has made a lasting contribution to our understanding of the past and the ongoing quest for knowledge.

For readers who have long been fascinated by the mysteries of ancient Egypt, Women in the Valley of the Kings offers a fresh perspective on the field’s history, one that is rich with the achievements of women who dared to explore the unknown and forever changed the world of Egyptology.

Read more