The Maxims of Ptahhotep
work by Ptahhotep
Quick Summary
"The Maxims of Ptahhotep" is an ancient Egyptian wisdom literature text, likely the earliest available to modern scholars. Attributed to Ptahhotep, a vizier who lived around 2400 BCE, the work was intended for young men destined for civil office.1
The maxims emphasize virtues such as obedience to superiors, humility, faithfulness in one's duties, and the wisdom of knowing when to remain silent. The text highlights obedience to a father and a superior as the highest virtue.1
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