key term - Ramses II

Definition

Ramses II, also known as Ramses the Great, was the third pharaoh of the Nineteenth Dynasty of Egypt, reigning from 1279 to 1213 BCE. He is often regarded as one of Egypt's most powerful and celebrated rulers, known for his extensive building projects, military campaigns, and religious developments during a time marked by significant changes, including the Amarna Period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ramses II is often credited with the construction of monumental architecture, including the temples at Abu Simbel and the Ramesseum, which showcased his power and devotion to the gods.
2. His reign is known for the signing of the world's first known peace treaty with the Hittites after the Battle of Kadesh, demonstrating his diplomatic efforts alongside military strength.
3. Ramses II portrayed himself as a living god through inscriptions and monuments, solidifying his divine status among his people during a time when religious practices were evolving.
4. He had numerous children, with estimates ranging from over 50 to more than 100, indicating his strong lineage and the importance of succession in maintaining royal power.
5. The transition from the traditional polytheistic worship to the more exclusive Aten worship initiated by Akhenaten influenced Ramses II’s approach to religious developments during and after his reign.

Review Questions

• How did Ramses II's building projects reflect both his personal ambitions and the broader cultural shifts occurring in Egypt?
  • Ramses II's building projects, such as the temples at Abu Simbel, were not only a testament to his personal ambition and desire for immortality but also reflected a broader cultural shift towards monumental architecture in ancient Egypt. These structures served to reinforce his divine status and authority as a pharaoh while showcasing Egypt's wealth and artistic achievements. Additionally, they connected to the ongoing evolution of religious practices, particularly as he navigated between traditional polytheism and the influences from Akhenaten's monotheism.
• In what ways did Ramses II engage with foreign powers, particularly the Hittites, during his reign?
  • Ramses II engaged with foreign powers through military campaigns and diplomatic negotiations, notably exemplified by his interactions with the Hittites. The Battle of Kadesh marked a significant military encounter between Egypt and the Hittite Empire, where Ramses claimed victory despite tactical challenges. This culminated in the signing of a peace treaty that established a diplomatic relationship between the two powers. This approach showcased Ramses II’s ability to balance military prowess with strategic diplomacy.
• Evaluate how Ramses II's reign contributed to shaping the future trajectory of Egyptian religion following the Amarna Period.
  • Ramses II's reign significantly influenced Egyptian religion in the aftermath of the Amarna Period by re-establishing traditional polytheistic practices after Akhenaten's brief monotheistic reforms. By promoting worship of deities such as Amun-Ra and integrating them into state rituals and monumental inscriptions, he reinforced Egypt's cultural heritage. This restoration helped stabilize religious practices and solidified the role of the pharaoh as an intermediary between the gods and people, laying a foundation for future rulers while ensuring continuity in Egyptian spirituality.

Related terms

Akhenaten:

A pharaoh of the Eighteenth Dynasty known for introducing a form of monotheism centered on the worship of Aten, which marked a significant shift in Egyptian religious practices.

Hittites:

An ancient civilization that inhabited modern-day Turkey and engaged in conflict with Egypt during Ramses II's reign, particularly highlighted in the Battle of Kadesh.

Nefertari: The primary wife of Ramses II, who was highly revered and honored, exemplifying the role of women in Egyptian royal courts and their influence in religious practices.