Class 11 Ch-3(Hornbill)

 Chapter 3 

Discovering the Tut: The Saga Continues

Author-A.R. Williams

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✍️ Short Introduction about the Author:

A.R. Williams is a well-known American writer and editor associated with National Geographic Magazine. He specializes in topics related to history, archaeology, and ancient civilizations. In this chapter, he explores the fascinating story of Tutankhamun (King Tut), the famous boy king of ancient Egypt, focusing on how modern science and technology are helping uncover the secrets of his life and mysterious death.

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📝 Summary:

This chapter is a blend of history, science, and mystery, focusing on the life and death of Tutankhamun, the young Egyptian pharaoh who died around 1324 B.C. The story explores how modern archaeological and medical technologies like CT scans are being used to uncover the truth about King Tut’s early death and burial.

The author narrates how Tut’s mummy was first discovered in 1922 by British archaeologist Howard Carter, and how the methods used at that time may have damaged the body. In 2005, a CT scan was conducted to get a clearer and more scientific understanding of Tut’s health and cause of death, providing a new perspective on ancient history.

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📚 Key Points:

1. Tutankhamun’s Life:

   • Became pharaoh at age 9, died at 19.

   • His sudden death is a mystery.

   • Belonged to the 18th dynasty of ancient Egypt.

2. Discovery of the Tomb:

   • Discovered in 1922 by Howard Carter.

   • The tomb was filled with treasures, but the body was damaged during examination.

   • Carter had to cut the body into pieces to remove it from the coffin.

3. Scientific Investigation:

   • In 2005, a CT scan was performed to examine the body non-invasively.

   • The scan provided a 3D image of the mummy and ruled out some earlier theories (like skull injury).

   • Cause of death still uncertain – theories include illness, infection, or accident.

4. Ancient Egyptian Beliefs:

   • Egyptians believed in life after death.

   • Kings were buried with treasures, food, and goods to use in the afterlife.

   • Tut’s mummy was buried with over 5000 items, including gold and jewelry.

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🧠 Themes:

• Mystery and science in archaeology

• Ancient beliefs vs modern technology

• The power of curiosity and discovery

• Respect for cultural heritage

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💬 Important Vocabulary:

• Mummy – Preserved dead body

• Pharaoh – King in ancient Egypt

• CT scan – A medical imaging technique

• Dynasty – A family of rulers

• Archaeology – Study of ancient societies through remains

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✨ Moral / Message:

The chapter highlights how modern science can work with history to solve ancient mysteries. It also teaches us to respect the dead and preserve cultural heritage while advancing knowledge through technology.

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