A mummy is a human or animal corpse that has been preserved through embalming and buried in a careful and respectful manner. The practice of intentional mummification began in ancient Egypt and was performed to honour deceased Pharaohs and their servants. Mummies have often been used in horror fiction, depicted as undead creatures seeking revenge against those who defiled their tombs. They have also been used in other forms of media such as comic books and video games.