The Tale of Sinuhe: and Other Ancient Egyptian Poems 1940-1640 B.C.

Parkinson notes that teachings are an important genre, usually structured as an elderly father addressing his children. The life advice tends to be more concerned with communicating ethical and moral values, with instructions on how to perform public roles.

King Amenemhat was the founder of the 12th Dynasty and in his fictional teaching addresses his son and successor, Senwosret I, from beyond his death. The historical Amenemhat was assassinated after a 10-year co-regency with his son, in which he would have had ample time to prepare him for rule. More reflective than didactic, the teaching reflects on the duties of the king and the threat of instability. The pessimistic tone reflects a larger thematic concern with how social order is continually prey to chaos. The most complete surviving manuscripts date to the New Kingdom.

A preface establishes the beginning of the teaching of the Dual King and Son of Re, Amenemhat the Justified, to his son, the Lord of All. The speaker enjoins his son: “Listen to what I tell you / that you may be king of the land, and rule the Banks / increasing the good” (206).