Ancient Egyptian Literature – The Tale of the Eloquent Peasant
The story revolves around a peasant named xw.n-inpw from the Wadi Natrun region who sets out to Egypt to fetch provisions for his family. On his journey, he encounters nmti-nxt, a servant of the Chief Magistrate, rn-si, son of mrw, who deceitfully blocks his path and seizes his donkeys after accusing them of eating his barley. Despite xw.n-inpw‘s protests and offers to compensate for the barley, nmti-nxt beats him and takes his goods.
Xw.n-inpw pleads his case to the Chief Magistrate rn-si, son of mrw, repeatedly over nine petitions, eloquently appealing for justice and condemning corruption. Under orders from Pharaoh nb-kAw-ra, the Chief Magistrate delays responding to the peasant’s pleas to document his eloquent speeches. Meanwhile, provisions are secretly provided to xw.n-inpw and his family.
Eventually, the Chief Magistrate presents the peasants’ petitions to Pharaoh, who is impressed by the peasants’ eloquence. The Pharaoh orders justice to be served. nmti-nxt is summoned, and his possessions, including barley, livestock, and goods, are confiscated and given to xw.n-inpw as compensation. The story highlights themes of justice, eloquence, and the struggle against corruption.
