This Halloween, history enthusiasts and curious minds alike have a unique opportunity to delve into the mysteries of ancient Egypt. “Decoding the Afterlife: Ancient Egyptian Tombstones With Dr. Nicky Nielsen” is a three-part lecture series designed to unravel the enigmatic inscriptions that guided souls to the afterlife. Hosted by Atlas Obscura, this course promises to enrich participants’ understanding of Egypt’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage.
Journey Through Hieroglyphs and Tombstones
Ever been mesmerized by the intricate hieroglyphs on ancient Egyptian artifacts? This course is your chance to decode those fascinating symbols. Over three engaging sessions, Dr. Nicky Nielsen will guide students through the Offering Formula found on tombstones, revealing how these inscriptions were believed to sustain the souls of the deceased in the afterlife.
Participants will explore:
- The creation and significance of stelae
- The roles of gods like Osiris and Anubis in ancient beliefs
- The craftsmanship behind tombstone inscriptions
By the end of the series, attendees will not only recognize key elements of the Offering Formula but also gain a deeper appreciation for the rituals that honored ancestors in ancient Egypt.
Interactive Learning and Hands-On Experience
This isn’t just a lecture series—it’s an interactive journey. Each session is carefully crafted to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical decoding skills. Students will receive supplementary materials, including online museum resources and catalogs, to further enhance their learning experience.
Course Structure
| Session Date | Topic | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 10/20 | Ancient Egyptian Afterlife & Hieroglyphics | 1–2:30 PM ET |
| 10/27 | Making Stelae & The Offering Formula | 1–2:30 PM ET |
| 11/3 | Reading Divine Epithets & Offerings | 1–2:30 PM ET |
These sessions are spread over consecutive Sundays, allowing participants to absorb and apply their newfound knowledge between meetings.
Accessible Education for All
Understanding the importance of inclusive education, the course offers tiered pricing options to accommodate a wide range of students. Additionally, a limited number of no-pay spots are available for those who might not otherwise afford to participate. These spots are awarded through a randomized drawing, ensuring fair access to this valuable learning opportunity.
- Tiered Pricing: Flexible options to suit different budgets
- No-Pay Spots: Randomized selection for limited free access
- Family Adventures: Special trips for curious kids and their families to apply their skills in Egypt
This approach ensures that passion for ancient history is accessible to everyone, fostering a diverse and engaged community of learners.
Beyond the Classroom: Real-World Application
Atlas Obscura doesn’t stop at online learning. Participants have the chance to apply their skills in real-world settings with upcoming family adventures to Egypt. These trips, created in partnership with Tinkercast, are designed for both kids and adults, led by expert Egyptologists who bring the ancient world to life.
“Imagine walking through real ancient tombs and seeing the inscriptions you’ve learned to decode firsthand,” says Dr. Nielsen. This immersive experience aims to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and tangible exploration, making history come alive for all ages.
