Ancient Egyptian mythology is a rich tapestry woven from tales of gods, goddesses, pharaohs, and the afterlife. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the beliefs and values of one of the world's oldest and most enduring civilizations.  

Key Concepts:

Cosmogony: Egyptian mythology offers several creation myths. One prominent story describes how the world emerged from primordial chaos (Nun). Atum, the self-created god, emerged from the waters and gave birth to Shu (air) and Tefnut (moisture). Geb (earth), Nut (sky), and eventually all other beings sprang from them.  
The Ennead: This group of nine deities was crucial in Egyptian mythology. It typically included Atum, Shu, Tefnut, Geb, Nut, Osiris, Isis, Set, and Horus. These gods interacted and intertwined in complex ways, reflecting the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth.  
The Osiris Myth: This is perhaps the most famous of Egyptian myths. Osiris, god of the underworld and the afterlife was murdered by his jealous brother Set. His wife, Isis, mourned him and through her magic, resurrected him long enough to conceive their son, Horus. Horus then avenged his father by defeating Set, restoring order to the cosmos. This myth reflects the Egyptian preoccupation with death, the afterlife, and the cyclical nature of life and renewal.  
The Pharaoh as Divine: The pharaoh was not merely a king; he was considered a living god, a descendant of Horus, and the embodiment of Horus on Earth. This divine connection granted him the power to rule and maintain maat (truth, justice, and cosmic order).  
The Afterlife: The Egyptians believed in an afterlife and placed great importance on preparing for it. The process of mummification was central to this belief, as it was believed to preserve the body for the soul's journey in the afterlife. The Book of the Dead, a collection of spells and incantations, was intended to guide the deceased through the perils of the underworld.  

Key Deities:

Ra: The sun god, often depicted as a falcon or a man with a falcon head. He was the source of all life and energy.  
Osiris: God of the underworld, agriculture, and the afterlife. He was often depicted as a green-skinned mummy.  
Isis: Goddess of magic, healing, and motherhood. She was the wife and sister of Osiris.  
Horus: God of the sky and kingship, often depicted as a falcon or a man with a falcon head. He was the son of Osiris and Isis.  
Set: God of chaos, storms, and the desert. He was the enemy of Osiris and Horus.
Bastet: Goddess of cats, joy, and protection.
Anubis: God of mummification and the afterlife, often depicted as a jackal-headed figure.
Thoth: God of wisdom, writing, and magic, often depicted as an ibis or a baboon.  
Influence and Legacy:

Egyptian mythology has had a profound and lasting impact on Western culture. Its imagery and symbolism have influenced art, literature, and religion for centuries. Concepts such as the afterlife, the struggle between good and evil, and the importance of maintaining cosmic order resonate deeply with us today.