From: mk_thisisit
Professor Karol Myśliwiec, a prominent Polish archaeologist and Egyptologist, discusses various aspects of archaeological work in Egypt, including methodologies, ethical considerations, and the importance of public engagement [01:52:00].
Excavation Methodologies
Historically, archaeological methods in Egypt were often faulty, with monuments not being conserved at the moment of discovery [04:50:00]. Modern archaeological missions to Egypt are now required to include a conservator who immediately begins work on any finds [05:09:00].
Key Principles of Polish Archaeology
Professor Kazimierz Michałowski, who initiated Polish excavations in Egypt after World War II, established several distinguishing features for Polish archaeological missions [05:06:00], [07:07:00]:
- Emphasis on Stratigraphy: Michałowski believed that stratigraphy was extremely important, advocating for the study of all monuments in each layer, including Arabic inscriptions, which was not commonly done before [02:27:00]. This approach allowed for precise dating of objects previously dated only by stylistic criteria [16:53:00]. Discoveries by Professor Myśliwiec in a former “garbage dump” revealed intact archaeological layers from the Ptolemaic period, a rarity, allowing for dating with an accuracy of even several dozen years [12:25:00], [17:00:00].
- Interdisciplinary Approach: Anthropologists were invited to examine skeletons in necropolises, which was not typical for large cemeteries in northern Sudan or Egypt previously [20:43:00].
- Conservation: Michałowski ensured that conservators were always present to secure monuments immediately upon discovery [21:11:00].
Innovations in Polish Excavations
Polish excavations have incorporated modern techniques. For example, a team led by Professor Myśliwiec included a geophysicist, Mr. Tomasz Herm, marking the first time the geophysical method was used in Polish excavations in Egypt to determine optimal digging locations [06:45:00], [07:00:00].
Ethical Considerations
Publishing Research Results
A core ethical principle in archaeology is the obligation to publish research findings. Professor Myśliwiec states that “a person who discovers something and does not publish it is a criminal,” believing such individuals “should be thrown into prison” [00:41:00], [04:52:00].
”Forbidden Archaeology”
Professor Myśliwiec has not encountered any “forbidden archaeology” or prohibitions on discussing certain topics [43:47:00]. He emphasizes an archaeologist’s need to treat the earth with respect, avoiding assumptions that the earth “should give them what they want” [44:33:00]. He also cautions against “thinking through analogies,” where findings in one place are assumed to apply universally [46:09:00].
Relationships with Egyptian Authorities and Communities
Polish archaeological missions have built significant trust with Egyptian authorities due to their meticulous practices and respect for artifacts [02:05:00]. This trust was evident during the Egyptian revolution in 2013, when the Polish mission’s area remained untouched by thieves, unlike other archaeological sites [19:54:00], [21:47:00].
Foreign archaeological missions in Egypt are assigned an Egyptian guardian or inspector who cooperates with the team and reports to the Egyptian Antiquities Service [22:45:00]. Professor Myśliwiec noted that these relationships often developed into strong friendships, with Egyptian colleagues inviting him to family celebrations [23:04:00]. He never felt threatened or spied upon [24:39:00].
Public Engagement and Popularization of Science
Professor Michałowski instilled the belief that archaeologists owe society information about their discoveries. He wrote popular science books annually in Polish, in addition to academic literature, to share their work as a “common good of all Poles” [47:08:00], [47:35:00].
Professor Myśliwiec continues this tradition, publishing popular science books that mix science with sensational aspects, such as “In the Shadow of Djoser” (Saqqara) and “Egypt Behind the Pyramids” (Nile Delta, Thebes, Cairo) [50:09:00], [53:36:00]. These books aim to describe archaeology through his life and his life through archaeology [53:43:00]. His work, like “In the Shadow of Djoser,” has gained international recognition for making ancient Egypt accessible to a wider audience [50:29:00], [51:01:00].