What Is Papyrus Made Of?

Papyrus, made from a reed plant native to Egypt, allowed the ancient Egyptians to develop a written language. Much of what we know about Egyptian culture has been deciphered from records written on papyrus. Elaine A. Evans, curator/adjunct assistant professor at the University of Tennessee, says papyrus had an extraordinary impact on the world.

Papyrus Plant

The papyrus plant, known scientifically as Cyperus papyrus, was used to make ancient Egyptian paper. It grew extensively in the marshes along the Nile River, flourishing in wet, muddy areas. It is identifiable by its green airy foliage and its love of moisture. The plant is still used today in ornamental ponds and pools all over the world.

Secrecy

Ancient Egyptians closely guarded the secret of making papyrus for thousands of years. It was only when paper made from parchment became popular in the second century A.D. that its use began to die out. Because of this secrecy, the method of making papyrus was lost until 1969, when Dr. Hassan Ragab reintroduced native papyrus to Egypt and rediscovered how to make paper from it.

Method

The method for making papyrus is deceptively simple. The plant contains an inner pith or central core that is removed and cut into strips. These strips are soaked for three days and then pounded until pliable. The resulting fiber is laid crosswise and lengthwise and then pressed to remove water. Sticky liquid from the pith allows the fibers to adhere to one another when pressure is applied, creating the final papyrus paper. A flat rock is used to polish it and make it smooth.

Historical Importance

Papyrus revolutionized the way that ancient civilizations, particularly the ancient Egyptians, kept records. No longer did history depend upon oral retelling of stories; they could be accurately written down for future generations. Much of what we know about Egypt today was gleaned from papyri found in tombs. The ancient Greeks, after conquering Egypt in the 4th century B.C, also began to use papyrus to record their achievements. Without papyrus, much of the early historical record would have been lost.

Facts

Papyrus, also known as bulrushes, played a role in Biblical history by sheltering baby Moses until he was found by Pharaoh's daughter and adopted into the royal family. This versatile reed was also used by Egyptians to make boats, sails, ropes, nets, cooking containers and sandals. Papyrus continues to have an influence on us today: The English word "paper" comes from the Egyptian word "papyrus."

Resources

• All About Papyrus