Print this page Akhenaten: Revolutionary, Monotheist or Tyrant?

Akhenaten remains one of the most fascinating and controversial rulers of Ancient Egypt. His brief reign challenged centuries of religious tradition, transformed artistic conventions and centred worship on the sun god Aten. Yet after his death, many of his achievements were deliberately erased from history. This course explores Akhenaten's religious reforms, political ambitions, artistic legacy and enduring mysteries, including his relationship with Nefertiti and Tutankhamun. Participants will examine the evidence and consider whether he should be remembered as a visionary reformer, an egotistical ruler or something more complex. Suitable for anyone interested in ancient history and archaeology.

DELIVERY MODE

Face to face

COURSE RESOURCES

• J H Breasted: Development of Religion and Thought in Ancient Egypt
• Joy Collier: King Sun
• Nicholas Reeves: Akhenaten - Egypt's False Prophet

COURSE OUTLINE

• What was the structure of government and religion in Ancient Egypt in the XVIII Dynasty
• How and why did Akhenaten set out to entirely revolutionize both?
• What was the lasting impact - if any - of his Armana Revolution?

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

• Understand something of the development of monotheistic thought.
• Appreciate how hard it is to create real and lasting revolutions against ancient and conservative regimes.
• Have the glories of Tutankhamen in perspective.