As I read the first chapter of our textbook, I learned about ancient civilizations that no longer exist. I noticed how different their cultures were from ours today. However, these are the foundations of who we are. Since the Paleolithic, they have been the foundation for all humanity. Life for them was elementary and simple. They didn't wake up wondering what they were going to wear. Men were hunters and gatherers, while women were caregivers and producers. This is a relevant topic even today. (are men dominant, etc.?). As I continued reading, humans began to evolve after years and years. Soon humans were able to build structures using the post and lintel system. It seems that the more we have evolved, the more we have learned, and the greater the "survival of the fittest". played a role in the development of man. I found the story of Gilgamesh very interesting. The fact that he was seeking immortality but was unable to achieve it represents humans always wanting things they cannot have. This is something everyone can relate to. Did it also incorporate the flood/ark part that I thought might have a connection to Noah's ark? especially since the time periods were very similar. One thing that piqued my curiosity was how all ancient civilizations used hieroglyphs or symbols to communicate in writing. Today many countries and cultures do not do this. They use letters for their words and sentences. In fact, hieroglyphs are not really used anywhere. The closest thing is probably Hebrew and Arabic which derive from ancient civilizations. Although not as much in America, religion is still a prevalent factor in today's cultures, just as it was in Egypt and Babylon. The ancient Kingdom had a very interesting method of "judgment". The Book of the Dead was the assessment that was an important part of their lives. Similar to our judgments found in some religions today. I think the Middle Kingdom was a time to learn and discover new theories and methods and a time to understand what works and what doesn't. Prince Mentuhotep II was the leader and reunited Upper and Lower Egypt. This was a great achievement because it brought peace and allowed the culture to thrive. The impression I got from the Old Kingdom to the New was that the Old Kingdom kept the traditions in the books.