Unveiling the Truth Behind the Mummy: Fictional Elements and Real Egyptian Practices

It has been many years since I last watched The Mummy and its sequels, but from what I remember, the movies are based on a lot of old misconceptions. In this article, we shall delve into the true nature of mummification, the symbolic roles of gods and deities, and the cultural significance of certain symbols. We will also explore how these elements have been adapted into fictional narratives for cinematic effect.

The Film Its Predecessors

When referring to The Mummy, it is important to note that the 1999 and 2001 movies are the ones we are discussing. These films included The Mummy and The Mummy Returns. The original 1932 film, starring Boris Karloff, and its 1940 sequel, The Mummy’s Hand, were the first in the series. In 1959, Christopher Lee took on the iconic role for Hammer Studios, but there were no sequels to his version. The 2017 reboot received mixed reviews and did not perform well at the box office, lacking a sequel as of this date.

Key Elements Based on Ancient Egyptian Rites

Ancient Egypt was a civilization rich in religious beliefs and rituals. The film accurately depicts the ancient practice of mummification, an elaborate process intended to preserve the body for the afterlife. The rituals involved in mummification were deeply rooted in religious beliefs and practices of the time. Traditional mummification required the removal of the internal organs, which were placed in canopic jars, and the body was packed with natron to remove all moisture. The corpse was then rubbed with spices and oils to preserve it, before being wrapped in layers of linen. In the film, Imhotep is mummified quickly and even then, his wrappings appear incomplete, highlighting the sheer immensity of the process.

Mummification

Mummification was a rigorously detailed process that involved the complex removal of all internal organs, which were placed in canopic jars, and the body was packed with natron to remove moisture to prevent decay. After the body was completely desiccated, it was treated with various ointments, herbs, and minerals to keep it dry and preserve its appearance. The wrappings served as a final touch to protect and beautify the corpse. In the film, however, the process is portrayed as a rushed and incomplete one, with the addition of dung beetles to assist in the de-grading process, which is historically inaccurate.

The Book of the Dead

The film references the Book of the Dead, which is a collection of funerary spells and instructions dating back to the New Kingdom of ancient Egypt. However, the portrayal in the film is largely fictional. The real Book of the Dead did not exist as a single, coherent text but rather as a compilation of spells found in various tombs, ranging from the 19th to the 22nd Dynasties. These spells served various purposes, such as providing the deceased with guidance, protection, and manipulation in the afterlife. None of them are curses. The book in the film relies more on Hollywood storytelling than on historical accuracy.

Ankh and Other Symbols

In Egyptian culture, the ankh was a symbol of life and the scarab was often associated with protection and transformation. The film accurately represents these symbols in their cultural significance. The ankh was frequently depicted in tomb art and votive offerings, while scarabs were used in jewelry and amulets believed to offer protection and promote rebirth. The symbolism in the film reflects these ancient beliefs and practices.

Creative Liberties: Plot and Characters

The overarching plot of the film, including the resurrection of Imhotep and the adventure elements, is largely fictional. The dramatic narrative and character relationships are designed to enhance the cinematic experience rather than historical accuracy. For instance, the depiction of Imhotep as a cursed priest is more fictionalized than based on historical fact. Imhotep was a real figure, a renowned architect and physician, and later became deified in religious texts, but he was not associated with returning from the dead in any historical records.

Magic and Curses

The use of magic and curses in the film aligns more with Hollywood storytelling traditions than with actual ancient Egyptian beliefs. Ancient Egyptians did not practice a form of magic as seen in the film, where curses are specifically used to cause trouble. Belief in magic was more integrated into daily life, with spells and protective amulets, but not in the grandiose and terrifying way depicted in the movie. The film’s portrayal of magic and curses is more aligned with cinematic thrills and dramatic storytelling.

In Summary

While the film The Mummy draws inspiration from ancient Egyptian practices, much of the narrative and imagery is fictionalized for entertainment value. The film correctly represents the ancient practice of mummification and the cultural significance of symbols like the ankh and scarab, but the rituals, the Book of the Dead, and the overall plot are largely based on Hollywood storytelling. The film’s portrayal of ancient Egyptian culture is a blend of historical truth and cinematic fiction, making it a fascinating yet imperfect portrayal of this ancient civilization.