Hatshepsut

Definition

Hatshepsut was one of the most notable female pharaohs of ancient Egypt, reigning during the 18th Dynasty from around 1479 to 1458 BCE. She is recognized for her extraordinary accomplishments in trade, architecture, and expanding Egypt's influence, often depicted in male attire to assert her authority. Hatshepsut's reign is a key example of the complexity of gender roles and power dynamics in ancient Egypt, showcasing both imperial expansion and artistic developments during the New Kingdom.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hatshepsut was the daughter of Thutmose I and became queen consort to her half-brother Thutmose II before declaring herself pharaoh.
2. She commissioned numerous building projects, including her mortuary temple at Deir el-Bahari, which features unique architectural elements that blend into the surrounding cliffs.
3. Hatshepsut is known for promoting trade expeditions, most notably to Punt, which brought back valuable goods and wealth to Egypt.
4. Art from her reign reflects a shift in representation; she is often shown wearing male pharaoh's regalia, which helped legitimize her rule.
5. After her death, Hatshepsut’s name and image were systematically erased from many monuments by her successor Thutmose III, highlighting the challenges faced by female rulers in a male-dominated society.

Review Questions

• How did Hatshepsut's rule challenge traditional gender roles in ancient Egypt?
  • Hatshepsut's reign significantly challenged traditional gender roles as she took on the title of pharaoh and ruled as a sovereign leader. By adopting male attire and incorporating male imagery in her statues and reliefs, she asserted her authority and power in a role typically reserved for men. This defiance of gender norms allowed her to not only maintain control over Egypt but also initiate successful trade missions and monumental building projects that further solidified her legacy.
• In what ways did Hatshepsut contribute to architectural advancements during the New Kingdom?
  • Hatshepsut made substantial contributions to architectural advancements during the New Kingdom through her ambitious building projects. Her mortuary temple at Deir el-Bahari is renowned for its innovative design and harmonious integration with the natural landscape, utilizing terraces and colonnades that influenced future architecture. Additionally, she commissioned obelisks, including those at Karnak, which exemplified both religious significance and engineering prowess during her reign.
• Evaluate the impact of Hatshepsut's trade expeditions on Egypt's economy and international relationships.
  • Hatshepsut's trade expeditions had a profound impact on Egypt's economy and its international relationships. By organizing successful journeys to regions like Punt, she facilitated the exchange of valuable goods such as gold, incense, and exotic animals. This not only enhanced Egypt’s wealth but also strengthened diplomatic ties with other nations. The influx of resources from these expeditions helped solidify Egypt's status as a powerful player in regional politics and trade networks during the New Kingdom.

Related terms

Obelisk: A tall, four-sided pillar with a pyramidion on top, commonly associated with ancient Egyptian architecture, often erected to commemorate Pharaohs.

Temple of Karnak:

A vast complex of temples and structures located in Luxor, Egypt, dedicated to the Theban triad of gods and significant in showcasing the architectural achievements during Hatshepsut's reign.

Thutmose III: The stepson and successor of Hatshepsut who is often regarded as one of Egypt's greatest military leaders, significantly expanding the empire after her death.