Ancient Egypt and the Bible

Explore Ancient Egypt as depicted in the Bible, focusing on the interactions between Egyptians and Israelites. You’ll examine these civilizations by looking at the 19th century rise of of Egyptology, which aimed to corroborate biblical events.

You'll use the Bible to identify cultural connections and analyse archaeological evidence of Creation myths and gods, exploring Biblical episodes like the Flood, Joseph’s journey, and the Exodus. You'll engage in discussions about evil, the role of Pharaohs, and the development of monotheism - the belief in the existence of only one God.  

This will be a relaxed, yet deep, analysis of both archaeological and written sources.

Any essential or recommended reading will be shared by the course teacher once the course is confirmed to run. You will require access to a device with an internet connection. 

If you have fully engaged with all the learning activities and have attended regularly, by the end of the course, you should be able to:  

• Identify, compare and contrast key themes in Egyptian mythology and the Bible;
• Using primary and secondary sources, consider key themes, characters and events;
• Discuss and evaluate previous and recent scholarly research on these issues. 

No previous experience is required.  

We welcome all and are committed to fostering a positive culture and sense of community among learners and staff. We expect learners to treat others with dignity and respect. Learners must be aged 16+.  

If you have a disability, learning difficulty, health condition, or personal circumstances which may affect your learning, please let us know so that we can make appropriate adjustments in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.  

Wherever possible, we mainstream adjustments in line with the University’s accessible and inclusive learning policy. 

Learners will have limited access to the University’s student support services who will signpost appropriate local sources of support. 

This course is suitable for those with no prior experience of university study.

You will need to have reading, listening and communication skills, including the ability to understand detailed ideas and information presented verbally and in writing. You must be comfortable learning in English if it is not your first language. You will need basic digital skills, such as using a computer and navigating a website, to access the learning materials.

Please note that the course booking deadline is 8 days before the course start date.