The Secret Name of Ra & Distant Goddess Tefnut | Reader’s Theater Script | Egyptian Mythology

The Secret Name of Ra & The Distant Goddess Tefnut Reader’s Theater Script of Egyptian Mythology explores two distinct yet related Egyptian myths unfold. First, Isis weaves a cunning plan to learn Ra’s hidden name, forging a serpent from his own spittle to poison him and force his disclosure. Second, Tefnut (or Hathor) departs in anger to distant Nubia, bringing drought upon Egypt until Thoth gently persuades her to return. Together, these tales show how cunning, magic, and reconciliation can sway cosmic order.

The resources consists of an editable DOCX file (14 pages) which contains:

1) Teacher Tips & Answer Key

• CCSS Alignment
• Teacher Tips for use as both RT and Play/Skit
• Answer Keys for Worksheet
• Themes & Discussion Question Prompts

2) Readers Theater Script

• ~7 Characters, 2000 words

3) Script Worksheet

• 10 Vocabulary Words
• 10 Short-Answer Comprehension Questions: Comprehension and recall questions based solely on the script
• Character Traits Chart - Students write 1 or 2 adjectives that describe the main characters in the script and support their answers with quotes from the script.

Teaching Tips for Using the Script:

• For digital classrooms, upload the DOCX Script and convert to Google docs
• For More Students: Main character can be read by multiple students.
• For Less Students: Minor characters can be read by just one student.
• This script should take about ~20 minutes and depending on your classroom's level it may be suitable for other grade levels.
• An extra ~25 minutes for prep, discussion, vocabulary or short answer comprehension questions should also be planned.

Script Summary:

The story begins with Ra, grown old in appearance, though still holding supreme power through his secret name—an essence none else possessed. Isis, ambitious for greater might, collects Ra’s spittle and dust to fashion a living serpent. That serpent bites Ra, whose usual spells fail against this magically animated poison. In desperation, Ra reveals his hidden name to Isis, thereby curing himself but surrendering a portion of his authority.

Next, the script moves on to Tefnut (or Hathor), who abandons Egypt after feeling underappreciated. Her departure plunges the land into drought and despair, as she withholds her nourishing moisture. Thoth embarks on a mission to coax her back. Through music, stories, and heartfelt pleas, he persuades the indignant goddess to return. Renewed rains quench the parched fields, and a new balance forms among the gods. The two myths underscore how cunning or reconciliation can shift even the highest cosmic forces.