Khafre

Definition

Khafre was an ancient Egyptian pharaoh of the Fourth Dynasty during the Old Kingdom, known primarily for constructing the second largest pyramid at Giza and the Great Sphinx. His reign marked a significant era of monumental architecture, showcasing the power and religious beliefs of ancient Egypt through impressive structures that served as tombs and symbols of the pharaoh's divine status.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Khafre was the son of Pharaoh Khufu, the builder of the Great Pyramid, and he ruled around 2558 to 2532 BCE.
2. His pyramid, known as the Pyramid of Khafre, appears taller than that of Khufu due to its higher elevation, even though it is actually shorter.
3. The Great Sphinx, which is believed to bear Khafre's likeness, was constructed during his reign and symbolizes his authority.
4. Khafre's mortuary temple was intricately designed with stone reliefs depicting various scenes that highlight his divinity and connection to the gods.
5. Khafre's reign is often viewed as a peak of pyramid construction, as it represented the culmination of architectural and artistic achievements in ancient Egypt.

Review Questions

• How did Khafre's pyramid compare to that of his father Khufu in terms of size and significance?
  • Khafre's pyramid is the second largest on the Giza Plateau and was built to reflect both his power and continuity with his father's legacy. While Khufu's Great Pyramid is larger and considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, Khafre’s pyramid appears taller due to its elevated location. This strategic placement illustrates how each pharaoh sought to assert their divine status through monumental architecture.
• Analyze the cultural significance of the Great Sphinx in relation to Khafre's reign.
  • The Great Sphinx serves not only as a guardian of Khafre's pyramid but also embodies his strength and divine connection. Carved during his reign, it symbolizes royal authority and protection over Egypt. The Sphinx's design reflects ancient Egyptian ideals about leadership and divinity, further establishing Khafre's enduring legacy in both religion and culture.
• Evaluate how Khafre’s construction projects contributed to our understanding of Old Kingdom society and its values.
  • Khafre’s construction projects, including his pyramid and the Great Sphinx, reveal much about Old Kingdom society, emphasizing its values around death, immortality, and divine kingship. The grand scale of these monuments illustrates the economic resources available to the pharaohs and their ability to mobilize labor. Moreover, these structures signify a society that placed great importance on monumental architecture as a means to reinforce both political power and religious belief, showcasing how deeply intertwined governance was with spirituality in ancient Egypt.

Related terms

Giza Plateau: A site in Egypt that houses the three largest pyramids, including those of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, as well as the Great Sphinx.

Sphinx:

A mythical creature with a lion's body and a human head, often associated with protection and wisdom; Khafre's Sphinx is one of the most famous examples.

Old Kingdom:

A period in ancient Egyptian history from around 2686 to 2181 BCE, known for the construction of pyramids and the development of a strong centralized state.