Most ancient Egyptians were not kings or priests but farmers, craftsmen and their families. Thanks to tomb paintings, letters and the remains of villages such as Deir el-Medina, we know a surprising amount about how they lived, worked, ate and enjoyed themselves.
Homes and families
Houses were built of mud brick, with flat roofs where families slept on hot nights. Most people married young and valued large families. Women could own property, run businesses, go to court and divorce, rights that were rare in the ancient world.
Work and the seasons
Life followed the Nile’s three seasons: the flood, the growing season and the harvest. During the flood, when fields were under water, many farmers worked on royal building projects. Craftsmen worked as carpenters, potters, weavers, jewelers and stone carvers, and scribes, who could read and write, held the best jobs.
Food and drink
Bread and beer were the basics of every meal, along with onions, lentils, beans, figs and dates. Fish was common; meat was mostly for feasts. Read more on ancient Egyptian food.
Clothes and looks
Egyptians wore light linen clothing. Men and women wore eye makeup of kohl, which also protected against the sun and infection, and wealthy people wore wigs and jewelry.
Fun and games
Egyptians loved music, dancing, board games such as senet, hunting and fishing in the marshes, and festivals. See ancient Egyptian entertainment and the tomb paintings in the Valley of the Nobles.
