work

There were many jobs in Egyptian society. The Pharaoh was the most important, followed by viziers, then government ministers and high priests. After that there were many ranks of scribes. Next were town mayors, district governors, priests and doctors. Soldiers, craftsmen, farmers and townspeople came next, then peasants, and finally slaves.

Farming

The Egyptians farmed, but as most of the land is covered in sand, they depended on the soil alongside the River Nile. The Egyptians used simple tools such as winnowing fans, rakes and sickles.Their sickles had a sharp edge of ivory. Farmers grew barley and emmer for making bread, and a type of beer.

Farmers at work in the fields

Fishing

Egyptian men fished in the river Nile in papyrus reed boats. The Nile was full of fish, including huge perch which could weigh over 50kg. They also hunted for ducks and geese. Fishermen had to be very careful, though, because an angry hippo could tip over a fragile boat.
When the river flooded they dug pits and pools so that the fish would be stranded in them, and easier to catch.

Fishing in the Nile, using a net slung between
two reed boats

Craftsmen

There were also craftsmen in ancient Egypt, men who had been taught their trades by their fathers. They included people such as artists, sculptors and carpenters. Many examples of their actual work has survived and can be seen in museums. However, the names of ancient Egyptian artists and sculptors are not generally known because they were regarded simply as craftsman.

Craftsmen at work in a shop