Joshua Rudder, the brilliant linguist behind the popular channel NativLang, has delved into the fascinating world of ancient Egypt in his latest animation. In this captivating piece, he unravels the mysteries of Coptic, the primary spoken language of that ancient civilization, and explores how modern culture has interpreted and pronounced it.
As the animation unfolds, we are introduced to a mesmerizing array of historical figures, each representing a different era in Egyptian history. From the powerful and enigmatic Hatshepsut to the captivating beauty of Nefertiti, the audience is taken on a journey through time, meeting the many forms of this long-lived language.
Through Rudder’s meticulous research and expertise, we are transported back to the time of the ancient Egyptians, where hieroglyphs were meticulously carved and woven into the very fabric of their society.
By piecing together fragments of historical records and texts, Rudder helps us listen back to the original sounds of these ancient symbols, giving us a rare glimpse into how the Egyptians communicated with one another.
But the animation doesn’t stop there. It goes beyond the individual characters and delves into the wider Egyptian society, shedding light on a family full of ancestors and relatives who played a crucial role in shaping and refining the pronunciation of the language.
By examining the subtle nuances of these pronunciations, Rudder skillfully arrives at an outline of Egyptian pronunciation, allowing us to experience the language in a way that has long been lost to time.
One cannot discuss the resurrection of ancient languages without mentioning the remarkable work of Jean-François Champollion. This animation pays homage to the French philologist, who dedicated his life to unraveling the secrets of ancient Egypt.
Champollion’s groundbreaking contributions to the study of the language are showcased in his writings, where he passionately argues that Coptic is indeed the Egyptian language, one that spans thousands of years of continuous evolution.
In a particularly poignant moment, the animation highlights Champollion’s determination to fully immerse himself in the language. He famously declared that he would never truly understand Ancient Egypt until he could dream in Coptic. This unwavering dedication and passion for the subject matter are a testament to the enduring allure of ancient languages and the lengths to which scholars will go to uncover their secrets.
As the animation draws to a close, viewers are left with a profound sense of awe and admiration. What could have been a tale of loss, with the silence of ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs echoing through the ages, has been transformed into a triumph of knowledge and understanding.
Through Rudder’s expert storytelling and meticulous research, we are given the privilege of experiencing the sounds and rhythms of a civilization long gone, allowing us to connect with our ancient past in ways we could never have imagined.
The animation serves as a reminder of the immense beauty and complexity of human culture, and the importance of preserving and understanding our shared history. It is a testament to the power of language, both as a means of communication and as a conduit for unlocking the secrets of civilizations long lost to the sands of time.
Joshua Rudder and his linguistic channel NativLang have once again captivated us with their unrivaled expertise, leaving us hungry for more knowledge and eager to explore the forgotten corners of our world’s rich tapestry of languages.