AMENEMOPE

    In the 'Instruction of Amenemope', the genre known today as the 'Wisdom Literature' reaches the final stage of its development. This text is completely preserved on a papyrus in the British Museum and also survives in other sources; although these are all of a later date, the text was probably composed during the Ramesside Period (c.1300 BC). It differs from earlier examples of wisdom literature in that the 'ideal man' whom these texts sought to describe and promote is no longer one who enjoys status and worldly success; instead, he is a modest man, humble before his god and other men, who does not seek great wealth or acclaim. Individual success is now sought through rightful action and through living acccording to 'Ma'at'—the Egyptian principle of truth, order and correct balance. The text contrasts the 'heated man' with the 'silent man' and stresses the virtue of self-control. However, since the state of perfection is now reserved for the gods, even the 'ideal man' can no longer hope to attain this level. The text is particularly important because not only does it illustrate changed attitudes relating to ethics within Egypt, but it can also be compared with similar concepts found in the Book of Proverbs in the Bible.