The archaeology of early Egypt : social transformations in North-East Africa, 10,000 to 2,650 BC / David Wengrow.

Includes bibliographical references (pages [277]-325) and index.

Introduction: the idea of prehistory in the Middle East and North-East Africa -- Transformations in prehistory -- Egypt and the outside world I, c.10,000-3300 BC -- Neolithic economy and society -- Domestication and embodiment in the Nile valley -- The urbanisation of the dead: Naqada I-II -- Image, ritual and the construction of identity in late prehistory -- The making of kingship -- Opening considerations: la meḿoire monarchique -- Egypt and the outside world II, c.3300-2500 BC -- The evolution of simplicity: Naqada III -- Extraordinary bodies and binding truths: early writing in context -- Theatres of sacrifice:d dynastic constructions of death -- Conclusion: subterranean histories of power.