The Pyramids of Ancient Egypt: What Came Before and After Giza?

When we think of Egypt, what immediately comes to mind are the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx in Giza. We also think of the pharaohs who built them and the hieroglyphs that adorn them. But what happened before these great pyramids were built? And what about after? 

In this class, we will discover, over a period of three weeks, how the concept of pyramids was created.  Who was responsible for the idea?  How did it all start? Did you know that there are about 125 pyramids along the Nile? We will explore earlier buildings such as mastabas and step pyramids, and how the early Egyptians buried their dead.  Why did they mummify their kings?  I teach in an open lecture style, where I go through engaging visuals, stories, ancient texts, and information.  I also include the latest archaeological information and theories when possible. Students are asked open-ended questions throughout the lesson and are encouraged to ask questions of me at any time. The informal tone of the class invites the learners to participate as they feel comfortable. I use PowerPoint as a presentation tool.

In this three-class format, we will look at:
Topic 1: Natural mummification, the first funerary buildings (mastabas and step pyramids), changes in mummification practices, Pharaoh Sneferu and his three pyramids.
Topic 2: The Giza pyramids and the Sphinx. We will look at how they were built and the mysteries surrounding these incredible structures.
Topic 3: The Valley of the Kings.  Why did they stop building pyramids?

The classes will use plenty of slides to take our young learners through the background and history of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World!