The river Nile was their means of sustenance in an otherwise barren land, it was their God and it was also a source of their livelihood. Needless to say, it was a major part of their daily lives (Daily Life). The land along the river Nile was green and fertile.

The Ancient Egyptians lived in houses made of mud and brick. They farmed and grew food, to sell as well as for subsistence. This product was taken into the cities and villages to exchange for things required by them.

Needs of Egyptian Daily Life

egyptian-daily-lifeThe people of Ancient Egypt chose various professions like farmers, artisans, scribes, architects, etc. Some of them formed little groups and were employed by the royal family.

There were obvious differences in the standard of living which then determined the type of house, clothing, food and servants or slaves. Every person, from the richest to the poorest one was very religious and took their duties very seriously.

Egyptian Family

The family was of utmost importance to the ancient Egyptians. Parents, children, grandparents, uncles, aunts and cousins, loyalty and respect were important for them. Children especially were regarded as boons. The women in lower strata of the society took care of their children, cooked and cleaned whereas the well to do families hired care takers and cooks.

egyptian-daily-life

Slavery was rampant and a way of Daily Life in Ancient Egypt. Not many women were educated, but they were equals in the world of business. Business dealings, legal cases, punishments, were the same for women as it was for men. Politics was also a field in which women proved themselves worthy, albeit surreptitiously.

Youngsters started off as apprentices, learning a trade or art from their elders or professionals. Girls learned at home from their mother. The ones who could enroll their sons to a school, by the time they reached seven years of age. They were taught mathematics, reading, writing, religion.

Girls from poor families were given in marriage by the time they turned twelve and boys, a little later than that. However, girls from rich families got married later and few of them chose for themselves. Polygamy was common among the Pharaohs.

Marriage Life

Prenuptials were signed before a marriage took place which allowed the wife money payable to her by her husband. Anything she had and took to her marital home would be hers. Divorce was an option as well.

Kitchen

We learned about kitchen items through the remains of jars, bowls, ladles, pans, pots, whisks and sieves found in tombs. Dishes were made of clay, and rich families had gold, silver and bronze utensils.

Cosmetics

Luxury was an integral part of Ancient Egypt as were cosmetics. They had creams and lotions and their creams were made up of perfume, lime, and oil. The used perfumed oil on a daily basis and painted their lips, nails, and cheeks.

Hunting for food and entertainment was common. Dramas, temple activities were held from time to time.