Sahidic Coptic
An introductory textbook
Bill Manley (Author)
Sahidic Coptic was the literary language of Late Antique Egypt during the years 350–800 and the final phase of Ancient Egyptian as a living language, bringing an end to four millennia of written history. Sahidic Coptic texts are among our most detailed written sources regarding: the end of ancient Egypt; Byzantine imperial rule; the early Bible; the development of Christian orthodoxy; Christianity in Africa; religious assimilation and persecution; the origin of mediaeval monasticism; and the rise of Islam.
This concise textbook teaches beginner students the grammar of documents written in Sahidic Coptic, and provides the historical and cultural context required for reading primary sources through informal as well as more formal and religious texts.
There are 20 language lessons followed by 7 chapters of sample reading and a detailed vocabulary list.
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Sahidic Coptic
An introductory textbook
Sahidic Coptic was the literary language of Late Antique Egypt during the years 350–800 and the final phase of Ancient Egyptian as a living language, bringing an end to four millennia of written history. Sahidic Coptic texts are among our most detailed written sources regarding: the end of ancient Egypt; Byzantine imperial rule; the early Bible; the development of Christian orthodoxy; Christianity in Africa; religious assimilation and persecution; the origin of mediaeval monasticism; and the rise of Islam.
This concise textbook teaches beginner students the grammar of documents written in Sahidic Coptic, and provides the historical and cultural context required for reading primary sources through informal as well as more formal and religious texts.
There are 20 language lessons followed by 7 chapters of sample reading and a detailed vocabulary list.
A refreshingly learner-centred guide to reading the latest phase of the ancient Egyptian language. Its clear explanations use meaningful descriptions of grammatical phenomena without overwhelming the reader, while still allowing teachers the flexibility to introduce more formal linguistic terminology where appropriate. The book focuses on the essential structures and vocabulary needed to begin reading authentic Coptic texts, yet it does not shy away from raising thought-provoking points that invite deeper reflection on the language and its speakers’ place in history. Such a user-friendly and intellectually stimulating resource will be welcomed by self-taught beginners and classroom learners alike.
Dr Glenn Godenho, Senior Lecturer in Egyptology, University of Liverpool
