The culture of Egypt like its history shows diversity and influence of
many foreign countries. Having history of 5000 years, Egypt 's vast and rich culture
constitutes an important element in the life of the country, which reflects the
different colorful shades of history and of the earliest civilizations.
From language to literature and from arts to music and dance, the value of
cultural diversity cannot be underestimated. The ancient Egyptian language belongs
to the family of Afro-Asiatic languages and was among the first written languages
known by the hieroglyphic signs inscribed on the monuments and papyrus sheets.
The present Arabic language is the gift of Arabs to the Egypt during their
invasion in 7th century. Of the many Arabic varieties, Egyptian Arabic is the
second most widely spoken dialect throughout the Arabic speaking world. Beside
of the official language, there are other languages also that are spoken by
the minority ethnic groups.
The oldest Egyptian literature is known as the Pyramid Texts. Broadly literature
of Egypt is divided into two parts: religious literature and secular literature.
Religious literature is all about the various hymns dedicated to gods and its
mortuary texts. Whereas Secular literature includes the wisdom texts i.e. forms
of philosophical instruction. In Egypt history Middle Kingdom period was considered
as the golden age of Egyptian literature.
One major change in the literature culture of Egypt occurred during the Greco-Roman
period. It was the period when certain Egyptian literature masterpieces were
translated into other languages and Greco-Roman literature fused with the native
writing style. One example of this fusion is the Rosetta Stone-a masterpiece
of Egyptian Literature. The great city of Alexandria became the main center
of literature culture of Egypt.
The wall paintings of the Pharaohs era were the earliest examples of art form
developed in Egypt. However they lacked linear perspective. Modern and contemporary
Egyptian art is much better in perspective manner on world art scene. Similarly
Egyptian music is a mixture of Egyptian, Arabic, African and Western influences.
Before 7th century AD, harps and flutes are the two indigenous instruments of
music in Egypt. But a wave of change occurred after the arrival of Arabs that
brought with them the Percussion and Vocal music. Egyptian Pop music is now
a part of Egypt culture while the folk music is also popular but is played only
during the wedding ceremony or festivities.
Beside of the art and literature section, there is one more section of culture
that is different from the formers but win hearts by its flavor and taste i.e.
Cuisine. Egyptian Cuisine shares many dishes with the neighboring countries
but yet it tastes totally different. Mashed fave beans are considered as the
national dish of the Egypt. Breads are the major part of main courses. Kebab
and Kofta, usually of lamb meat, chops & minced meat are the other popular
dishes.
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