Scarabs

Definition

Scarabs are beetle-shaped amulets that were commonly used in ancient Egypt, symbolizing transformation, resurrection, and protection. They were often made from stone or ceramic and became popular in funerary contexts, serving as symbols of the sun god Ra and the cycle of life. Scarabs played a significant role in both ancient Egyptian religion and later cultural influences during periods of Egyptomania.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Scarabs were often inscribed with spells or images that were meant to provide protection to the deceased in the afterlife.
2. The scarab beetle was associated with the sun god Ra due to its behavior of rolling dung balls, which was seen as a parallel to the sun's journey across the sky.
3. During Egyptomania, scarab motifs were widely adopted in jewelry and art, influencing design trends in Western cultures.
4. Scarabs could be found in various sizes and materials, ranging from small jewelry pieces to large decorative items used in tombs.
5. In ancient Egypt, it was common to place scarabs within burial tombs or mummies to ensure safe passage and protection in the afterlife.

Review Questions

• How did scarabs symbolize transformation and resurrection in ancient Egyptian culture?
  • Scarabs were closely associated with transformation and resurrection due to their connection to the sun god Ra. The behavior of the scarab beetle, which rolls dung into balls and lays its eggs inside, was seen as a metaphor for creation and regeneration. This symbolism made scarabs popular amulets in funerary practices, where they served to protect the deceased and ensure their rebirth in the afterlife.
• Discuss how the popularity of scarabs changed during the period of Egyptomania and their impact on Western art and culture.
  • During Egyptomania in the 19th century, scarabs became trendy symbols in Western art and fashion. Their designs were incorporated into jewelry, home decor, and various artistic creations as people sought to emulate ancient Egyptian aesthetics. This fascination with scarabs reflected a broader interest in Egyptian culture, which influenced artists and designers, leading to a revival of motifs that blurred the lines between ancient symbolism and modern interpretation.
• Evaluate the role of scarabs within both ancient Egyptian funerary practices and their lasting influence on contemporary society.
  • In ancient Egypt, scarabs played a crucial role in funerary practices by serving as protective amulets placed with the dead. This practice highlighted their association with rebirth and safe passage into the afterlife. Today, scarabs continue to inspire fascination and are utilized as symbols of protection and transformation in various contexts. Their presence in modern jewelry and art showcases how ancient beliefs have been reinterpreted and integrated into contemporary culture, demonstrating the enduring legacy of these powerful symbols.

Related terms

Amulet: A small object worn for protection or luck, often imbued with magical properties in ancient cultures.

Mummification:

The ancient Egyptian practice of preserving the body for the afterlife, which included placing scarabs in tombs as protective symbols.

Egyptomania:

A fascination with ancient Egyptian culture, art, and artifacts that emerged in Europe during the 19th century, leading to their incorporation into contemporary art and fashion.