New Kingdom

Definition

The New Kingdom refers to the period in ancient Egyptian history from approximately 1550 to 1070 BCE, marked by the expansion of Egypt's empire and the flourishing of its arts and culture. This era saw the rise of powerful pharaohs who established their legitimacy through monumental architecture, grand temples, and elaborate tombs, while promoting religious practices that emphasized the divine nature of their rule.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The New Kingdom is known for its military conquests, extending Egypt's territory into Nubia and parts of the Levant, enhancing its wealth and influence.
2. Notable pharaohs during this period include Hatshepsut, who was one of the few female pharaohs, and Ramses II, known for his extensive building projects and military campaigns.
3. This era saw the construction of monumental structures like temples at Karnak and Luxor, showcasing advancements in art and architecture.
4. The worship of Amon-Ra became particularly prominent during this time, reflecting a strong connection between religion and political power as pharaohs sought divine approval.
5. The New Kingdom eventually ended due to internal strife, foreign invasions, and economic decline, leading to a period known as the Third Intermediate Period.

Review Questions

• How did the New Kingdom influence artistic expression in ancient Egypt?
  • The New Kingdom had a significant impact on artistic expression through its emphasis on monumental architecture and elaborate tomb paintings. Artists created grand temples dedicated to gods like Amon-Ra and intricate wall reliefs depicting pharaohs in scenes that emphasized their divine nature. This period also saw an increase in realistic portrayals of human figures in art, reflecting a blend of idealism with individualism that was unique to this era.
• In what ways did pharaohs establish their political legitimacy during the New Kingdom?
  • Pharaohs established their political legitimacy during the New Kingdom by constructing monumental temples and tombs that showcased their power and divine connection. They often commissioned grand architectural projects that not only served religious purposes but also demonstrated their wealth and authority. Additionally, these rulers emphasized their military successes through inscriptions and reliefs in temples, reinforcing their status as protectors of Egypt and ensuring their legacy would endure.
• Evaluate the consequences of the military expansion during the New Kingdom on Egyptian society and its long-term effects on governance.
  • The military expansion during the New Kingdom led to significant wealth accumulation and cultural exchange with conquered regions. However, it also strained resources and created challenges in governance as Egypt struggled to maintain control over vast territories. The reliance on a strong military presence resulted in shifts in power dynamics within Egypt itself, contributing to instability that foreshadowed future decline. This expansion also fostered a complex relationship with neighboring regions that impacted Egypt's political landscape for centuries to come.

Related terms

Pharaoh: The title used for ancient Egyptian rulers, considered to be both the political and religious leader of the country, embodying the state and its deities.

Valley of the Kings: A burial site in Egypt where many pharaohs of the New Kingdom were laid to rest, featuring elaborate tombs decorated with paintings and inscriptions intended to ensure a safe passage to the afterlife.

Amon-Ra: A major deity in ancient Egyptian religion during the New Kingdom, seen as a creator god and the king of gods, often associated with the sun and believed to grant pharaohs their divine right to rule.