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Lesko’s “Women’s Monumental Mark on Ancient Egypt”

In: English and Literature

Submitted By abigailjoyleen
Words 638
Pages 3
Lesko’s “Women’s Monumental Mark on Ancient Egypt” Barbara Lesko’s article argues the fact that women in ancient Egypt were as important figures as the men were. The title suggests that women left a monumental mark, such as tomb chapels and temples, rather than just an impact on ancient Egypt. Though Lesko’s argument tries to portray women of great power and ranking, being director of the dining hall for example is not a position to be exuberant about. Lesko’s argument did not persuade me into believing the supposed unbelievable power women held; not counting the few royal women. However the abundant presence of art and architecture dealing with women in ancient Egypt is surprising. Lesko’s main argument dealt with women of ancient Egypt supposedly holding the same power and rights as the men. A strong point that exemplifies her argument is the presence of female art depicting women sitting beside their husbands rather than standing behind them. The importance of men and women being portrayed side by side shows equality between the two, rather than a portrayal of a woman servicing her man. Another strong point within Lesko’s argument is the fact that women had statuettes and life-sized statues dedicated to their obvious importance to ancient Egyptian society. Having life-sized statues of women is a bold statement that exemplifies the importance women held in society in conjunction with men. However, Lesko’s argument contains some problematic points such as women holding the same stature and power as men did. Men were pharaohs and kings, while despite the few famous royal women, most women were commoners with little power. Common occurrences as women taking care of the house were given supposedly important positions according to Lesko such as a housekeeper or maid. A woman being a housekeeper or a maid is not an impressive and powerful job women had and Lesko

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