Sinuhé

Sinuhé is a fictional Egyptian physician and scribe who is the protagonist of the novel *Sinuhe the Egyptian* by Finnish author Mika Waltari. The novel, published in 1945, is presented as an ancient Egyptian papyrus scroll found by archaeologists. The story is narrated by Sinuhé himself in his old age, recounting his life experiences from the reign of Pharaoh Amenemhet I to that of Amenemhet IV.

The narrative follows Sinuhé's journey from his privileged upbringing in the Egyptian court to his self-imposed exile. After witnessing the assassination of Amenemhet I, Sinuhé flees Egypt, fearing for his life. He travels extensively, visiting lands such as the Kingdom of Mitanni, Babylon, and Crete. During his travels, he serves as a physician and gains wisdom and perspective on different cultures and ways of life.

Sinuhé's life is marked by love, loss, and philosophical reflection. He experiences romantic relationships, including a complex love affair with a foreign princess. He also grapples with questions of mortality, faith, and the meaning of life. The novel explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the search for inner peace.

Upon returning to Egypt in his old age, Sinuhé dedicates his final years to tending to the poor and sick, finding solace in service. The story is a sweeping epic that offers a vivid portrayal of the ancient Egyptian world and the inner life of a man navigating a tumultuous era. Waltari's novel is celebrated for its historical detail, psychological depth, and engaging storytelling.