The Egyptian theory of monumental writing as related to permanence and endurance

One of the primary factors motivating the ancient Egyptians to construct monuments, in particular those of a funerary nature, was the desire to overcome the transience of human existence. Many measures were taken to ensure that one would be remembered for eternity, such as building and inscribing texts in a durable material, including one’s name on an enduring monument, protecting against natural damage, and threatening against willful damage. The desire for permanence was also reflected in statements attesting that damage was not done to earlier monuments and that damaged monuments were restored.