The Oldest Book in the World: Philosophy in the Age of the Pyramids
Bill ManleyManley introduces Ptahhatp, who served as Vizier to the Old Kingdom pharaoh Izezi (c. 2410-2375 BC), and the world of dynamic ideas and new technologies writing among them within which he worked, illuminating the nuances of his language and philosophy. In addition, Manleys new translation of Why Things Happen, the oldest surviving account of creation from anywhere in the world, reveals how Ptahhatps account of the human condition is founded in distinctive ancient Egyptian beliefs about the nature of truth and reality. Taken together, Manleys new translations and expert commentary provide a new perspective on the Pyramid Age and overturn traditional prejudices about the origins of writing and philosophy. The oldest book in the world is a testament to a common thread that connects humanity across time; Ptahhatp grapples with the pitfalls of greed, ambition, celebrity, success, confrontation, friendship, sex and even the office environment, and his teachings remain remarkably relevant in the modern day.