The Role of the Chantress (Šmyt) in Ancient Egypt

The author's aim is to present a study which determines the role of a chantress in ancient Egypt. Although both men and women were known to hold the title, it is the women that form the focus of this study. The number of people that held the title of chantress, and a previous lack of research means a relatively large proportion of the population of the New Kingdom and Third Intermediate period have been neglected, owing to the lesser status of the position compared to more high-ranking, and thus well-researched titles. This study offers an impression of the chantress as a more diverse title than has previously been imagined, taking into account and defining the differences between musical and linguistic roles.