In Our Time cover image

In Our Time

Akhenaten

Oct 1, 2009
42:12
Snipd AI
Experts in Egyptology discuss Pharaoh Akhenaten's radical religious reforms in ancient Egypt, his shift to worshiping a single solar god Aten, the controversial changes in art and architecture, and the enduring fascination with Akhenaten and his wife Nefertiti despite attempts to erase them from history.
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Quick takeaways

  • Akhenaten shifted ancient Egypt from polytheism to worshipping Aten, revolutionizing art and religion.
  • Akhenaten's radical policies caused social disruption and centralized power, leaving a lasting impact on Egyptian culture.

Deep dives

Akhenaten's Radical Transformation of Ancient Egypt

Akhenaten, an Egyptian pharaoh who reigned in 1353 BC, initiated a radical transformation of ancient Egypt. He shifted from traditional Egyptian polytheism to worshipping the sun god, Aten, erasing the names and images of other gods. Akhenaten's reign saw the construction of a new capital, Amarna, where he built grand temples and associated himself with a singular divine presence. His art revolutionized Egyptian representations with elongated forms and naturalistic cityscapes, focusing on his family and the sun god.

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