ANCH 012. FYS: The World of the Pharaohs: An Introduction to Egyptology.

This first year seminar explores the culture of ancient Egypt, beginning with its foundations in the 4th millennium BC and culminating in the internationally renowned pharaohs of the New Kingdom (1550-1070 BC). Students will investigate the difficult relationship of Thutnose III and his stepmother Hatspehsut, the only female pharaoh, the revolutionary but ultimately disastrous reforms of he heretical monotheist Akhematen, and the imperialism of Ramses II, usually identified as the pharaoh of the Exodus. Through discussion of the literature, mythology, history and archaeology, we will consider how the rulers of ancient Egypt utilized architecture, writing and religion in order to establish and grow the Nile valley’s earliest civilization. Students will leave the course with a deep appreciation for and understanding of the historical figures and monuments of Egypt.
Social Sciences.
1 credit.
Catalog chapter: Classics
Department website: https://www.swarthmore.edu/classics

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