The internationally recognized Egyptology program at the University of Memphis is hosting a guest lecturer from New York Thursday. Ellen Morris, assistant professor at Columbia University and Barnard College, will be talking about Egypt's military takeovers.
Around 1500 B.C., Egypt's militia were conquering and expanding into areas to the north and in the east. According to Morris's research, ancient Egyptians took over territories and kept the foreigners as prisoners. Images of these captives can be seen in tombs dating to this century.
The drawings illustrate the "sudden appearance, activities and gradual disappearance" of a northern people, according to Morris. The impact they had on Egypt and its people will be explored in this discussion.
The Egyptology Graduate Student Association at U of M is coordinating the event. Ashley Stanton, the president of the organization, expects to help raise interest in the hopes that she and the other graduate students can educate people about what's going on in Egypt now.
According to Peter Brand, the director of the Egyptology program, the U of M is a hub of extensive research.
"We have a large program in Egyptology through the art and history departments and the Institute of Egyptian Art and Archaeology is a center of excellence," he said.
According to Stanton, The lecture is a great way for more students to know just what all the school has to offer.
"U of M is one of the only places in the country where you can actually study Egyptology," Stanton said.
A reception begins at 6:15 p.m. in the Bluff Room in the University Center, which will be immediately followed by Morris' talk at 7 p.m. Both events are free and open to the public. Parking is available in the Zach Curlin Parking Garage.
