STARS OF EGYPTOLOGY
It is a great privilege to interview fellow Kiwi, Dominic Perry. Writer and podcaster he is studying for his PhD in Egyptology at Auckland University, New Zealand.
When did you first develop an interest in Egyptology?
From an early age! I grew up in a house whose architecture included a pyramid as part of the roof. That was my bedroom, so it gave me an early awareness of pyramids etc. Then, as a school project, I learned about Tutankhamun. That kickstarted my passion in earnest.
What qualifications do you have?
I graduated with a Masters in Ancient History in 2014. Now, I am 1 year into a PhD at the University of Auckland New Zealand, with Prof. Anthony Spalinger.
Did you decide to pursue it as a career? (My understanding is that you study/studied law.)
After finishing my MA, I felt that an academic (tenure path) career was not for me. Fortunately, not long after my Podcast began to establish itself financially. Now, I am interested in building a career that combines academic research with public outreach.
How did you come up with the idea of your history podcast? Do you have sponsors? How much time do you spend on it?
On a whim, after enjoying other podcasts. I wanted one about Egypt, but no one had made it. So, I started one.
For sponsors, I have Patrons on Patreon.com, and advertising on the podcast itself. Time-wise, a 30 minute episode takes about 12 hours of research. Then another 8-10 hours for writing, and another 4 for recording, editing, publishing etc.
Could you tell the readers a bit about your PhD topic? How did you decide to choose that specific topic? What do you intend to do with it?
I am investigating socio-economic systems in Egypt’s New Kingdom (c.1550-1150 BCE). I am focussing on settlements like Amarna, Tell el-Daba’a and forts, and their relationship to economic trends in the Near East.
You are a New Zealander based in New Zealand and a fair distance from Egypt. What would would you say to aspiring Egyptologists who are required to overcome geographical boundaries? Is it an issue in this day and age of the internet and international museums/exhibitions?
Budget for travel. While internet access has simplified the process, there is still plenty of material that can only be accessed in person. Also, making time to speak with overseas scholars via email or web seminar is a good way to stay in touch with the field.
Finally, there are a lot of young people who want to pursue Egyptology but are informed it would be better to pursue medicine, accounting or law. What advice would you give them?
Weigh up what is vital to you. If money and job security are paramount, Egyptology won’t provide those. If passion and fulfilment is more important, then it may be worth seeing if you can make it work.
Thank you, Dominic. Readers, it is time to check out the The History of Egypt podcast. It’s the best in the world. Period!
https://www.egyptianhistorypodcast.com/
