Feeding King Tut
When King Tutankhamun's tomb was opened 100 years ago, archaeologists found not only treasures but also food items intended for his afterlife, including mummified meats, honey, wine, dates, figs, and grains. This discovery allowed for an educated guess at what King Tut might have eaten. King Tutankhamun, originally named Tutankhaten, became pharaoh at a young age and reversed his father Akhenaten's controversial religious changes, restoring the worship of multiple gods, especially Amun. Tut's reign was short, and his death, likely due to various health issues from inbreeding, led to efforts by later pharaohs to erase him from history. Fortunately, his tomb remained mostly untouched and hidden for millennia, preserving the artifacts and food that offer a glimpse into ancient Egyptian life and customs.
Key Vocabulary
The belief in or worship of more than one god.
Examples:
- Ancient Greek mythology is a classic example of polytheism, with its pantheon of gods and goddesses.
- Many early civilizations practiced polytheism, attributing different aspects of nature to various deities.
- The shift from polytheism to monotheism was a significant religious development in several cultures.
To steal goods from a place or person, typically using force and in a time of war or civil disorder.
Examples:
- The pirates plundered the merchant ship, taking all its valuable cargo.
- After the battle, the victorious army plundered the defeated city.
- The ancient tomb was plundered centuries ago, leaving behind only fragments of its original treasures.
An aromatic herb in the mint family, with small, oval leaves, used for seasoning food.
Examples:
- She added fresh marjoram to the tomato sauce for a more robust flavor.
- Marjoram is often used in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly with poultry and vegetables.
- The scent of marjoram filled the kitchen as the stew simmered.
To place a dead body in a tomb or grave.
Examples:
- The pharaoh was entombed with his most prized possessions.
- Archaeologists discovered a sarcophagus, revealing that a queen had been entombed within.
- The ancient warriors were entombed in a grand burial mound.
Having a fresh, piquant, or spirited flavor or quality.
Examples:
- The lemon pie had a wonderfully zesty filling that brightened the entire dessert.
- She added a zesty dressing to the salad, combining citrus and herbs.
- The band's performance was zesty and energetic, keeping the audience engaged.
To pour juices or melted fat over meat during cooking in order to keep it moist.
Examples:
- Remember to baste the turkey every hour to ensure it stays moist and flavorful.
- He used a brush to baste the chicken with its own drippings.
- Regularly basting the roast will help create a crispy skin while keeping the inside tender.
A tiller or wheel and any associated apparatus by which a ship or boat is steered; also used figuratively to mean a position of control or leadership.
Examples:
- The captain took the helm, guiding the ship through the rough seas.
- She was at the helm of the successful project, making all the key decisions.
- With a new CEO at the helm, the company is expected to undergo significant changes.
To fasten or secure with a strap or straps.
Examples:
- He strapped the luggage onto the roof rack of the car.
- The injured player had his ankle strapped before returning to the game.
- The diver carefully strapped the oxygen tank to his back.
A person who makes wine.
Examples:
- The local vintner offered a tasting of his latest vintage.
- A skilled vintner understands the nuances of grape cultivation and fermentation.
- The family has been vintners for generations, producing award-winning wines.
The main stem of a herbaceous plant.
Examples:
- She trimmed the woody stalks off the asparagus before cooking.
- The celery stalks were crisp and refreshing in the salad.
- He picked a bouquet of flowers, carefully arranging their long stalks.
An existence after death.
Examples:
- Many ancient cultures held strong beliefs about the afterlife, preparing their dead for a journey.
- The concept of an afterlife varies greatly across different religions and philosophies.
- Some people find comfort in the idea of an afterlife where they will be reunited with loved ones.
The process of taking apart a machine or structure; also used figuratively to mean breaking down a system or organization.
Examples:
- The crew began the dismantling of the old factory building.
- The government was focused on dismantling bureaucratic obstacles to economic growth.
- Dismantling the complex legal framework took years of dedicated effort.
Marked with a large number of small spots or patches of color.
Examples:
- The bird's eggs were a beautiful speckled blue.
- Her dress was made of a speckled fabric, giving it a unique texture.
- The speckled trout blended perfectly with the riverbed.
The process of trying to find the answer to something by guessing when you do not have enough information to be certain.
Examples:
- Without proper data, much of the planning relied on guesswork.
- Solving the puzzle involved a lot of educated guesswork and trial and error.
- His predictions were based more on instinct and guesswork than on solid research.
To find (something) again after it has been lost or forgotten.
Examples:
- The artist's early works were rediscovered in an old attic.
- After years of neglect, the ancient ruins were rediscovered by archaeologists.
- She rediscovered her passion for painting after taking a long break.
Lacking interest or excitement; dull.
Examples:
- He found his daily routine to be mundane and sought new adventures.
- Even mundane tasks can be enjoyable if approached with a positive attitude.
- The novel explored the beauty hidden within mundane everyday life.
To touch quickly and gently with the flat of the hand.
Examples:
- She gave the dog a gentle pat on its head.
- He patted his pockets, checking if he had his keys.
- The baker would pat the dough lightly before shaping it.
High-ranking political advisors or ministers, especially in Muslim countries or ancient Egypt.
Examples:
- The vizier was a trusted advisor to the Sultan, handling many affairs of state.
- Ancient pharaohs often relied on their viziers to manage the day-to-day administration of the kingdom.
- The grand vizier held immense power, second only to the ruler himself.
To tie up the wings and legs of a bird before cooking.
Examples:
- Before roasting, it's important to truss the chicken to ensure even cooking.
- The chef demonstrated how to properly truss a turkey for a holiday meal.
- She used kitchen twine to truss the duck, keeping its shape intact.
To stay just below the boiling point while being heated.
Examples:
- Let the sauce simmer gently for twenty minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- The soup needs to simmer on low heat until the vegetables are tender.
- He brought the broth to a boil, then reduced the heat to a steady simmer.