Pyramidologies of Egypt: a Typological Review

Abstract

The pyramids of Egypt, and especially the Great Pyramid at Giza, have long been the subject of speculation. Notably from the mid-nineteenth century to today Western writers have proselytized numerous interpretations at odds with those of specialist scholars, and such alternative ideas have attracted wide if disparate followings. In surveys of Egypt written for a general audience from a traditional Egyptological framework these ideas are often ignored, or are lumped together as ‘pyramidiocy’. Here we emphasize the great diversity of models in pyramidologies and suggest two typological frameworks to help understand them. One applies a matrix of their ideological origins and their use of metrical applications. An alternate typology classifies pyramidologies by supposed creators and intended users of the pyramid(s). Most such theories are created by male outsiders to Egypt; they set the subject outside of the broader context of pharaonic architecture and society; they often cite scholarly sources selectively; and can incorporate mutually contradictory arguments. The internet has broadened access to alternative archaeologies, and has served to democratize fantasy.