Abstract
This chapter discusses a number of textual and linguistic parallels identified in Ancient Egyptian and Greek literary works, arguing that the historical interpretation of such parallels differs depending on (a) their typology and (b) the textual and historico-cultural contexts to which they belong. It uses examples, some well known, others original, drawn from a variety of literary works, ranging from Egyptian narratives and instructions to Greek novels and gnomic anthologies. By presenting and examining such parallels, the chapter aims to identify the most significant factors which must be considered by scholars before considering literary parallels between two ancient cultures and interpreting them as signs for historical contact.