Born: 13 July 1863 (Calcutta, British India)
Died: 13 November 1963
Biography:
Margaret Alice Murray (13 July 1863 – 13 November 1963) was an Anglo-Indian Egyptologist, archaeologist, anthropologist, historian, and folklorist. The first woman to be appointed as a lecturer in archaeology in the United Kingdom, she left an indelible mark on the field through her extensive research and groundbreaking contributions. Murray’s work in Egyptology and archaeology was widely acclaimed and earned her the nickname of The Grand Old Lady of Egyptology.
Born to a wealthy middle-class English family in Calcutta, British India, Murray had a multicultural upbringing that would shape her passion for exploration and understanding different cultures. Throughout her youth, she divided her time between India, Britain, and Germany, gaining exposure to diverse customs and traditions. This early exposure fostered her curiosity about the ancient civilizations of the world, particularly the wonders of Egypt.
Murray’s academic journey began in London, where she pursued studies in nursing and social work. However, her true calling lied in the field of Egyptology, and she quickly gravitated towards this discipline. In 1894, Murray enrolled at University College London (UCL) to study Egyptology under the guidance of renowned archaeologist Flinders Petrie. This marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership and friendship that would shape Murray’s career.
Under Petrie’s mentorship, Murray flourished as a scholar. He recognized her potential and encouraged her to publish her early academic works. In 1898, she made history as the first woman to be appointed as a lecturer in archaeology at UCL. This groundbreaking achievement paved the way for future generations of female archaeologists.
Murray’s archaeological exploits took her to the sacred lands of Egypt. In 1902–03, she joined Petrie’s excavation at Abydos, where she made a remarkable discovery. Murray uncovered the Osireion temple, an ancient structure dedicated to the god Osiris. This significant find solidified her reputation in Egyptology and earned her further recognition within the academic community.
Continuing her explorations, Murray ventured to the Saqqara cemetery in the following season. It was here that she made another groundbreaking discovery, unearthing the Tomb of the Two Brothers. This excavation became a turning point in her career, as she became the first woman to publicly unwrap a mummy during the high-profile unwrapping of Khnum-nakht at the Manchester Museum in 1908. This event catapulted her into the public eye and firmly established her as a pioneering figure in the field.
Recognizing the public’s fascination with Ancient Egypt, Murray sought to bridge the gap between academic scholarship and the general public. She authored several books on Egyptology, making the subject accessible to a wider audience. Her works, such as The Splendour That Was Egypt and The Osireion at Abydos, revealed her profound knowledge of the subject and her skill in engaging readers.
Beyond her academic achievements, Murray was passionate about advancing the status of women in academia and society. She actively participated in the first-wave feminist movement and joined the Women’s Social and Political Union. At UCL, she devoted much of her time to campaigning for greater opportunities and recognition for women in the field of archaeology.
When the outbreak of World War I made it impossible for Murray to return to Egypt, she turned her attention to the study of witchcraft and folklore. With extensive research and meticulous analysis, she formulated the witch-cult hypothesis. This theory posited that the witch trials of Early Modern Christendom were attempts to suppress a surviving pre-Christian pagan religion, worshipping a Horned God. Although later discredited, Murray’s theory generated widespread interest and influenced the emerging religious movement of Wicca.
In the aftermath of World War I, Murray embarked on archaeological excavations in Malta and Menorca, unearthing prehistoric sites and delving into the rich history of these islands. Simultaneously, she explored the field of folkloristics, further expanding her interdisciplinary approach. These diverse pursuits showcased Murray’s insatiable thirst for knowledge and her ability to excel across multiple disciplines.
Murray’s contributions to academia were rewarded with numerous honors and accolades. In 1927, she received an honorary doctorate, recognizing her significant achievements in the field of Egyptology. One year later, she was appointed assistant professor at UCL, further solidifying her esteemed position within the university. Murray’s impact extended beyond the academic sphere, as she also served as the president of the Folklore Society from 1953 to 1955.
Throughout her later years, Murray continued to lecture at prestigious institutions, including the University of Cambridge and the City Literary Institute. Her independent publications and research remained highly regarded until her passing in 1963, leaving an enduring legacy in the fields of Egyptology, archaeology, and folklore.
Margaret Murray’s life and work exemplify the spirit of curiosity, dedication, and intellectual rigor. As a trailblazer for women in academia and a pioneer in her field, she made invaluable contributions to the understanding and appreciation of ancient civilizations. Her unwavering passion for knowledge and commitment to advancing the role of women ensure her place in the annals of women’s history.
Awards:
– Honorary Doctorate (1927)