Kara Cooney

Cooney interrogates the intricate dynamics of power and gender in ancient Egyptian civilization, employing a blend of academic rigor and accessible storytelling to engage both scholarly and popular audiences. Her research delves into the lives of women rulers in ancient Egypt, as seen in her notable book, "When Women Ruled the World: Six Queens of Egypt," which offers a nuanced examination of female pharaohs and their impact on history. Meanwhile, her work on funerary practices, including coffin reuse during socioeconomic turmoil, reveals how ancient economic and political challenges influenced burial customs.\n\nIn addition to her scholarly pursuits, Cooney extends her insights to the public through her television work, such as the Discovery Channel series "Out of Egypt," which illuminates comparative archaeology for a wider audience. Her role as a curator in prominent exhibitions like "Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs" underscores her ability to connect academic insights with public engagement. As a professor at UCLA, she shapes the field of Egyptology through her teachings and research, focusing on the socio-economic intricacies of ancient societies. Readers and students alike benefit from her ability to challenge traditional Egyptological perspectives and encourage a deeper understanding of historical gender roles and economic systems. Through her books and media presence, Cooney invites reflection on the timeless complexities of power and legacy in human history.