For many years, it was believed that the family structure in ancient Egypt closely resembled modern systems. However, research by Ph.D. candidate Steffie van Gompel reveals a more complex reality, highlighting differences, especially regarding inheritance. In Egyptian families, the inheritance often favored the eldest son, setting him apart from his siblings.

Wealthy Egyptians sometimes established marriage contracts that outlined the financial contributions of each party and stipulations in the case of divorce. Van Gompel suggests that because of these contracts, one might assume that women enjoyed greater status compared to their counterparts in other ancient cultures, like Greece. These women could own property, leading to portrayals of them as progressive or even feminist figures in popular media.

Yet, Van Gompel argues that simply allowing property ownership does not equate to independence. A deeper understanding of the Egyptian family system is necessary, which encompasses marriage, inheritance, and household establishment. Her research involved translating ancient texts and integrating findings with historical demographic studies.

Van Gompel’s analysis indicates that the Egyptian family system was clan-based. While adult offspring typically left the household, the eldest son often remained to manage and continue the family home, resulting in multi-generational living arrangements. This arrangement lends significant authority to the eldest sons, who were integral to the family’s financial and social dynamics.

Power was centralized among senior men, who controlled not just their daughters, but also their sons, influencing marriage choices and property ownership. This dynamic could sometimes benefit women due to the unique familial hierarchy. While ancient Egyptian women had agency within this system, Van Gompel challenges the notion of them as true feminist icons, suggesting a more nuanced view of their societal role.