Life as a scribe in Ancient Egypt took its toll on the body. Researchers examining the bones of these ancient writers found them riddled with arthritis and other work-related wear and tear, offering fascinating insights into their lives. They detailed their findings in a study published in the journal Scientific Reports.
Researchers from the Czech Republic studied the remains of 69 individuals who were buried in the Abusir necropolis in Egypt over 4000 years ago, between 2700 and 2180 B.C.E. They found hot spots of degenerative change in the ankles, spine, neck, shoulders, and jaws of scribes that can be attributed to their work.
Ancient Egyptians Suffered Workplace Injuries
Thanks to written evidence in their tombs, researchers identified thirty of the men as scribes. Scribes were trained and highly respected members of society in Ancient Egypt at a time when literacy levels were low. One of those included in the study had attained the high status of vizier and would have reported directly to the pharaoh in his time. It’s the first study of its kind to address exactly how scribes’ profession affected their bodies.
