Ancient Egyptian Book of the Dead

The Ancient Book of the Dead brought to life! Throughout centuries, mysterious "books of the dead men" were often found buried alongside mummies and inside tombs by Egyptian locals, grave robbers, and archeologists; however, the inscrutable writing and cryptic contents remained a perplexing puzzle until the discovery of the Rosetta Stone, which enabled ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics to be translated for the first time. Soon after, scholars discerned that these grave books contained secret spells, incantations, and prayers to help, protect, and guide the dead during their journey through the underworld and to the afterlife. Here, in one volume and based on the classic editions from E.A. Wallis Budge, one of the most renowned Egyptologists of all time, this scholarly compendium delves into the history, motifs, and themes found in these afterlife companions before concluding with Budge's timeless translation of the Book of the Dead. Completely illustrated throughout, this volume brings ancient Egypt's vibrant past and secrets of the dead to life, enchanting and fascinating modern readers once again. -- back cover.