Unearth a Story: “The Story of Sinuhe” with Professor Steven Stannish

Join SUNY Potsdam History Professor Steven M. Stannish, as he discusses The Story of Sinuhe, one of the earliest historical novels from ancient Egypt. The oldest version of this tale dates to the reign of Amenemhet III (c.1800 B.C.E.) but it is thought the tale may have been composed during the reign of Senusret II (c.1875 B.C.E.)

As part of this year’s Summer Reading Program theme, “Unearth a Story,” Professor Stannish will discuss the discovery of the story, of which there are a number of different sources, with the beginning of the tale having appeared on a limestone ostracon over a meter long and can be seen in our promotional image.

Professor Stannish recommends William Kelly Simpson’s translation of The Story of Sinuhe for those who would like to read the story in advance. This version can be found online at Literature of Ancient Egypt: The Story of Sinuhe | Ancient Egypt Online.

Professor Stannish has an impressive career, spanning 33 years, and is the recipient of numerous awards. He played a critical role in developing a world history and ancient history curriculum at SUNY Potsdam, including a minor program in classical studies, the only program of its kind offered by any of the SUNY comprehensive colleges. He has taught on The Middle East from Alexander to Islam, Egypt in Late Antiquity, The Egyptian Eighteenth Dynasty and more. He speaks about a dozen languages, and, on August 12, he will be at Potsdam Public Library to speak to you.