The reign of Hatshepsut (1508-1458 BCE) during Egypt's New Kingdom, has sparked debate throughout time.  Female kingship was not unprecedented in Egypt's history.  But her ascension to the throne while Regent to the young heir Thutmose lll, has been described as controversial.  To legitimise her claim to the throne, she emphasised her Divine Conception and Birth ,claiming the god Amun to be her father. 

 

Military campaigns and an expedition to the land of Punt were dedicated to Amun.  To enhance her relationship with the Amun-Re cult, she embarked on a multitude of public works.  Her mortuary temple at Deir el-Bahri and the additions she made at Karnak are prime examples. 

 

Under Hatshepsut's reign, the Amun priesthood gained considerable power and was richly rewarded for their support.  Her relationship  with Thutmose lll has provoked much debate by historians.  Some described her as 'a merciless, evil usurper', while others have a more positive view.  Some believe that, under her guidance, Thutmost lll became one of the greatest 'warrior pharaohs' of the New Kingdom.

DURATION :  36 minutes

 

KEY LEARNING AREAS

Hatshepsut   Introduction  Geographical & Historical Context

  Political - Economic - Social - Military - Religious Context

  Hatshepsut's Background - The Influence Of The Queens

  Legitimising Her Claim As Pharaoh

  Hatshepsut Military Campaigns & Expeditions c. 1479 - 1458 BCE

  Hatshepsut's Building Programmes

  Religion & Relationship with Amun Priesthood, Officials & Nobles

  Hatshepsut's Relationship with Thutmose III

  Evaluation

 

SUBJECT AREAS -  SENIOR

Personalities in Their Times and/or History

 

SUBJECT AREAS - JUNIOR

Australian Syllabus History- The Mediterranean World:  Level 7 & Year 7 and NSW Stage 4