Review on the Article Standing Tall: Egypt's Great Pyramids

He is starting the article by giving important evidence of the historical location of the pyramids, the architectural achievement of their construction as well as the passage of Pharaoh during their construction. Afterwards he divides the article with two different titles, giving a clear picture of what each chapter will contain. At the first chapter he describes the historical facts about how the pyramids were built. There is also a great deal of reference to the new findings and new theories on the subject. At the second chapter he gives even more information about the pyramids’ materials, technique, and construction. In between there are a lot of pictures and extra information of people who were involved with the construction of the pyramids.

I like the way the author is giving a lot of information concerning dates and facts for the ancient years without being tiring. I also like the structure of the article because it starts with the general description of the pyramids and slowly new data are added about the construction or the workers. The description is clear and easy to understand. The images and the captions have a catalytic role for this purpose. The data described in the last chapter under the heading: “Putting It Together” are of great interest. The author gives information of the efficient work of thousands of workers, and how they handled their experience.

The author generally avoids giving his personal opinion. There are, however, two points referring to Herodotus and the historical events that he wrote about the pyramids. According to the latest findings, Herodotus’ record of the number of workers, as well as the fact that they were uneducated slaves, was abolished. The author, following the research he conducted, he is referring to the abolition of Herodotus arguments. With the phrases “such as the plight of the Hebrew slaves recounted in the biblical book of Exodus—seems to have had currency in the ancient world” and “another of Herodotus’s somewhat fanciful claims” it is obvious that he is giving his personal opinion and not in a very polite way. I totally agree with the reference to the facts but I would prefer if the author was uninvolved to comments.

The article is well-written; it is interesting and easy to read. I believe that good research has been done and this is reflected at the article. The choice of images is very supporting for the story. Some personal comments could be avoided.