key term - Tutankhamun

Definition

Tutankhamun, often referred to as King Tut, was an Egyptian pharaoh of the 18th dynasty who ascended to the throne around 1332 BCE and reigned until his death in 1323 BCE. His tomb, discovered in 1922 by archaeologist Howard Carter, is one of the most significant archaeological finds, providing immense insights into ancient Egyptian culture and burial practices during the New Kingdom period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tutankhamun became pharaoh at a very young age, around 9 or 10 years old, and his reign lasted approximately 10 years.
2. His tomb, designated KV62 in the Valley of the Kings, contained a wealth of artifacts and treasures that illustrated the wealth and artistry of ancient Egypt.
3. The discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb captured global attention and led to a renewed interest in ancient Egypt, often referred to as 'Tutmania'.
4. Tutankhamun's death is shrouded in mystery, with various theories about how he died, including an accident, murder, or health issues caused by genetic disorders.
5. Following his death, Tutankhamun's name was largely forgotten until the discovery of his tomb; he was originally known as Tutankhaten before changing his name to honor the god Amun.

Review Questions

• What impact did the discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb have on our understanding of ancient Egyptian culture?
  • The discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb significantly enhanced our understanding of ancient Egyptian culture by providing a detailed glimpse into royal life, burial practices, and the wealth of the New Kingdom. The artifacts found within the tomb, including jewelry, furniture, and ceremonial items, showcased advanced craftsmanship and religious beliefs. This discovery also sparked global interest in Egyptology and increased public fascination with ancient Egypt.
• Analyze how Tutankhamun's reign reflects the political and religious changes occurring during the 18th dynasty.
  • Tutankhamun's reign reflects significant political and religious shifts within ancient Egypt during the 18th dynasty. He ascended to the throne following the tumultuous rule of his father Akhenaten, who disrupted traditional polytheistic worship with monotheism. By reverting to traditional religious practices and restoring worship to Amun, Tutankhamun symbolized a return to stability and continuity in Egyptian governance. His reign illustrates the complexities and challenges faced by a young pharaoh navigating a society recovering from radical changes.
• Evaluate the importance of mummification practices during Tutankhamun's time and their significance for understanding ancient Egyptian beliefs about the afterlife.
  • Mummification practices during Tutankhamun's era were vital for understanding ancient Egyptian beliefs regarding death and the afterlife. These rituals aimed to preserve the body for eternity, reflecting their belief in an afterlife where individuals would continue to exist. The elaborate mummification process used for Tutankhamun himself highlights how royalty were afforded special treatment to ensure their safe passage into the next life. Artifacts found in his tomb further emphasize this cultural significance by illustrating how mummification was not just a physical process but also a spiritual journey.

Related terms

Akhenaten:

The father of Tutankhamun, Akhenaten was a pharaoh known for introducing monotheism through the worship of Aten, the sun disk, which dramatically changed religious practices in ancient Egypt.

Mummification: The ancient Egyptian practice of preserving the body after death through embalming and wrapping it in linen, which was crucial for the afterlife beliefs of the Egyptians.

Valley of the Kings:

A burial site located on the west bank of the Nile near Luxor, where many pharaohs, including Tutankhamun, were buried in elaborately constructed tombs during the New Kingdom.