Egyptian History

Egyptian History

Choose any TWO from the list below. 1 and ½ pages for each response.

1. Both Wilkinson and Dr. Jones see the Hyksos as a redeeming factor in Egypt (although the Ancient Egyptians do not agree). What is the Legacy of Hyksos and how did they actually improve Egypt?

1. How were women depicted in Ancient Egypt (what roles did they play, occupations, rights, royal women etc.)? What evidence do we utilize to reach these conclusions? Don’t forget to include Hatshepsut in your discussion.
2. Why/how was Akhenaten able to attempt to diminish the role of Amun-RA and raise the ‘Aten’ to top position, and almost singular position, in YOUR opinion? As you develop your response consider the ‘absolute’ power (or was it) of Pharaoh, power of the Priests in Thebes, as indicators of ‘power’ of religion in Egypt in general.
3. Both Wilkinson and Dr. Jones consider Ramses II to be much like the Pharaoh’s of old; he fought mighty battles, build numerous monuments, and loved many women. Discuss how Ramses II is larger than life and how he nurtured that persona. How did he blend old with new? What were his success and failures?
4. Merneptah and Ramses III will face a new and hitherto unknown enemy, the Sea People. What unlikely alliances rise against the Egyptians? How do they respond militarily? AND discuss the tragedy and intrigue at the end of Ramses reign? Who tries to kill him and what is the outcome?
5. In chapter 18 Wilkinson chronicles the very the plight of the Egyptians during the last days of the Ramesside dynasty. What challenges did they face? What factors lead to the breakdown of authority? How does the dynasty disintegrate from within?