logo

57 pages 1 hour read

The Tale of Sinuhe: and Other Ancient Egyptian Poems 1940-1640 B.C.

Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Adult | BCE

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Book Brief

logo
Sinuhe, R.B. Parkinson (Translator)

The Tale of Sinuhe

Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Adult | BCE
Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction

Setting

Egypt • Middle Kingdom

Publication Year

-1800

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

The Tale of Sinuhe and Other Ancient Egyptian Poems, translated and annotated by R.B. Parkinson, comprises 13 relatively intact literary works from the Middle Kingdom period, featuring tales like “The Tale of Sinuhe,” wherein a court official exiled abroad returns home triumphantly; other stories include quests for justice, wondrous adventures, and princes’ competitions, while discourses and teachings explore ethical and philosophical themes pertinent to ancient Egyptian life, such as duty, truth, and hierarchical order.

Adventurous

Nostalgic

Contemplative

Emotional

Inspirational

Reviews & Readership

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Reviews for The Tale of Sinuhe by Sinuhe, translated by R.B. Parkinson, praise its readability and faithful translation, bringing ancient Egyptian literature to modern audiences. The well-researched footnotes and historical context are highlighted as strengths. Some critics note the prose can feel archaic. Overall, it's a valuable addition to historical literature.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Tale of Sinuhe?

A reader who enjoys ancient literature, historical narratives, and epic adventures would appreciate The Tale of Sinuhe. Fans of The Epic of Gilgamesh and The Odyssey will find its exploration of exile, loyalty, and destiny compelling. This text also appeals to those interested in Egyptian culture and literature.

Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction

Setting

Egypt • Middle Kingdom

Publication Year

-1800

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.