Ramses II

Definition

Ramses II, also known as Ramses the Great, was the third pharaoh of the Nineteenth Dynasty of Egypt and is often regarded as one of the most powerful and influential rulers in ancient Egyptian history. His reign lasted from 1279 to 1213 BCE, and he is known for his extensive building projects, military campaigns, and the promotion of religious rituals, which greatly impacted temple architecture, royal ceremonies, and methods of divination.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ramses II reigned for an impressive 66 years, making him one of the longest-reigning pharaohs in history.
2. He is celebrated for his monumental construction projects, including the temples at Abu Simbel and the Ramesseum, showcasing advanced architectural techniques.
3. Ramses II led numerous military campaigns, notably against the Hittites, which culminated in the Battle of Kadesh, one of the largest chariot battles ever fought.
4. He was a key figure in promoting traditional Egyptian religious practices, reinforcing the power of the priesthood through his building initiatives.
5. Ramses II's legacy includes many statues and reliefs depicting him as a divine figure, reinforcing the concept of pharaohs as intermediaries between gods and people.

Review Questions

• How did Ramses II influence the evolution of temple architecture during his reign?
  • Ramses II greatly influenced temple architecture by commissioning massive structures that embodied his power and divine status. His most famous projects include the temples at Abu Simbel, which were designed to honor both himself and the gods. These temples featured colossal statues and intricate carvings that showcased advancements in construction techniques and served as expressions of religious devotion and political propaganda.
• Discuss the significance of Ramses II's military campaigns and how they were celebrated during royal festivals.
  • Ramses II's military campaigns, particularly against the Hittites at Kadesh, were significant not only for expanding Egypt's territory but also for enhancing his reputation as a warrior king. These victories were celebrated during royal festivals through elaborate rituals that included reenactments of battles and offerings to the gods for protection. This connection between military success and royal festivals reinforced Ramses II's image as a divine ruler chosen by the gods to protect and lead his people.
• Evaluate how Ramses II's reign impacted practices of divination and oracles in ancient Egypt.
  • Ramses II's reign had a profound impact on divination practices and oracles within ancient Egyptian religion. By emphasizing his role as a divine intermediary between the gods and his subjects, he encouraged the use of oracles to guide decisions related to statecraft and military endeavors. Temples dedicated to various deities under Ramses II often featured dedicated spaces for oracles, where priests interpreted signs from the gods, thus intertwining state affairs with religious guidance during his long and prosperous rule.

Related terms

Hatshepsut:

The fifth pharaoh of the Eighteenth Dynasty, known for her successful reign and extensive building projects, including her mortuary temple at Deir el-Bahari.

Akhenaten:

The pharaoh who introduced a form of monotheism centered on the worship of Aten, significantly changing religious practices and temple designs in ancient Egypt.

Oracle: A person or mechanism used to provide prophetic predictions or advice, often connected to divine communication in ancient Egyptian religion.