New Kingdom

Definition

The New Kingdom was a period in ancient Egyptian history that lasted from around 1550 to 1070 BCE, marked by the height of Egypt's power, wealth, and cultural achievements. This era is notable for its monumental architecture, advancements in art and literature, and significant developments in science, making it a golden age of Egyptian civilization.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The New Kingdom is often referred to as Egypt's 'Empire Age' due to its expansion into neighboring regions and increased military campaigns.
2. Notable pharaohs during this period include Hatshepsut, Akhenaten, and Ramses II, each contributing significantly to art, religion, and architecture.
3. This era saw the construction of iconic monuments like the temples at Karnak and Luxor, which showcased the grandeur of New Kingdom architecture.
4. The New Kingdom also witnessed advancements in literature, with works like the 'Book of the Dead' and various poetry forms reflecting both religious beliefs and daily life.
5. Scientific progress during this time included improvements in medicine, mathematics, and astronomy, which were crucial for agricultural planning and construction.

Review Questions

• How did the New Kingdom contribute to the military power and territorial expansion of ancient Egypt?
  • The New Kingdom marked a significant increase in military strength for ancient Egypt, with pharaohs like Ramses II leading successful campaigns into Nubia and the Levant. The establishment of a professional army allowed Egypt to expand its territory, securing valuable resources and trade routes. This expansion not only enhanced Egypt's wealth but also solidified its influence over neighboring regions.
• Discuss the artistic and architectural achievements of the New Kingdom and their significance to Egyptian culture.
  • Artistic and architectural achievements during the New Kingdom were profound, characterized by grand temples, elaborate tombs, and detailed sculptures that celebrated the pharaohs' divine status. The construction of monuments such as the temples at Karnak illustrated not only religious devotion but also advanced engineering techniques. These works have left a lasting legacy, showcasing the sophistication of ancient Egyptian culture and influencing later civilizations.
• Evaluate the impact of religious changes during the New Kingdom on art and culture.
  • Religious changes during the New Kingdom, particularly under Akhenaten's rule with his focus on monotheism centered on Aten, had a transformative effect on art and culture. This shift led to new artistic styles that broke from traditional norms, as seen in more naturalistic representations of figures. Despite the return to polytheism after Akhenaten’s reign, this period laid groundwork for diverse cultural expressions that reflected both devotion and individuality in artistic endeavors.

Related terms

Pharaoh:

The title used for the rulers of ancient Egypt, considered both political and religious leaders, with absolute power over their subjects.

Tutankhamun:

A young pharaoh of the New Kingdom who became famous for his richly furnished tomb discovered in 1922, which revealed much about Egyptian burial practices and art.

Valley of the Kings:

A burial site located on the west bank of the Nile near Luxor, used for pharaohs and powerful nobles during the New Kingdom, showcasing impressive tomb architecture and decoration.