Ancient Egyptian Hieroglyphs: an introduction for beginners
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- Start Date: 19 Sep 2025End Date: 10 Oct 2025Fri (Evening): 17:30 - 20:15In PersonLocation: The British MuseumDuration: 4 sessions (over -4 weeks)Course Code: RBMC10Full fee £139.00 Senior fee £111.00 Concession £90.00
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What is the course about?
Learn the basics of Egyptian hieroglyphs, including how the script works, its history and influence on global language, and how to read recurring key phrases when visiting sites or museums like the British Museum.
Hugo Cook studied Egyptology for his BA at Oxford and his MPhil at Cambridge. He has taught and tutored extensively, and he loves discussing all things ancient.
Friends of the British Museum pay a discounted rate. Please choose the "senior fee" during the checkout to get 20% discount on the course fee.
What will we cover?
Students will learn to read simple and widely occurring texts in hieroglyphs, while gaining an insight into ancient Egyptian culture and the marvellous ideologies recorded in these symbols. The course will explore how the script works (a bird sign does not, in fact, just mean a bird) and some basic grammar. Students will discover how this invention had such a major and often unrecognised impact on human history and language.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- Read simple texts in most museums, galleries, or Egyptian archaeological sites you visit.
- Demonstrate new insight into the fascinating culture and global impact of ancient Egypt.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This course is suitable if you are a complete beginner. As this course is taught in English, you should be able to
follow verbal and written instructions in English and also take part in class and group activities.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
The course will combine some lecturing with activities and viewing of objects from the British Museum collections. Students are expected to participate in the activities and to do some homework every week.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
Resources and handouts will be provided by the tutor. It is not essential, but it may help your learning to purchase a copy of ‘How to Read Egyptian Hieroglyphs’ by Mark Collier and Bill Manley (any edition).
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
The tutor will be able to advise you on a progression course.