Ancient Egyptian society

Timeline of Social Evolution - society changed little over the centuries

The Social pyramid - a hierarchical structure with power residing in a headman Pharaoh

Family - Strong emphasis on the nuclear family unit

Marriage - contracts were seen as a means of regulating the transfer of property

Food - When Egyptians evolved from hunters to settled farmers, a revolution occurred in food production and diet.

Sex - Sexual behaviors for both men and women were restricted by society

Women - Compared to other areas of the ancient world, they held stronger social positions and expanded legal rights.

Clothes - Elite Egyptians cared about their appearance and clothing which indicated their social status

Festivals - Most ceremonies were cultic, rather than civil

Demography - very high infant mortality rate and low life expectancy