Ancient Egypt History > Middle Kingdom of Egypt
Middle Kingdom of Egypt
Background
The Middle Kingdom of Egypt (c. 2055–1650 BCE) is considered a period of stability, prosperity, and cultural renaissance. It followed the First Intermediate Period, a time of political fragmentation and chaos, and preceded the Second Intermediate Period. The Middle Kingdom is often regarded as the high point of ancient Egyptian civilization in terms of cultural and artistic achievements.
Reunification by Mentuhotep II: The Middle Kingdom began with the reunification of Egypt by Mentuhotep II, the pharaoh of the Eleventh Dynasty, who defeated the rival rulers of Herakleopolis and established control over a united Egypt.
Dynasties:
The Eleventh Dynasty (c. 2055–1985 BCE) and the Twelfth Dynasty (c. 1985–1795 BCE) are the core of the Middle Kingdom. The Thirteenth Dynasty (c. 1795–1650 BCE) continued many traditions of the Middle Kingdom but is often considered part of the Second Intermediate Period due to increasing instability.
Significant Pharaohs
Mentuhotep II: Reunified Egypt, marking the beginning of the Middle Kingdom.
Amenemhat I: Founder of the Twelfth Dynasty, known for his administrative reforms and building projects.
Senusret I: Continued the work of his predecessor, expanding Egypt’s territory and influence.
Amenemhat III: His reign is considered the peak of the Middle Kingdom, known for extensive building projects and the development of the Faiyum Oasis.
Administrative and Economic Reforms
Centralization: The Middle Kingdom saw the strengthening of central authority and the development of a more efficient bureaucracy. Nomarchs (regional governors) were appointed by the pharaoh and were more closely controlled than in the Old Kingdom.
Economic Prosperity: Improved irrigation and agricultural practices led to economic stability. Trade flourished, with expeditions to Punt and Byblos bringing in valuable goods like incense, ivory, and timber.
Military Campaigns and Expansion
Nubia: Egyptian control over Nubia was reasserted during the Middle Kingdom, with military campaigns extending Egypt’s influence and securing valuable resources like gold and ebony.
Sinai and Levant: Military expeditions into the Sinai Peninsula and the Levant helped secure Egypt’s borders and trade routes.
Cultural and Artistic Renaissance
Literature: The Middle Kingdom is often called the "Classical Age" of Egyptian literature. Works like the "Tale of Sinuhe" and "Instructions of Amenemhat" reflect the values and concerns of the time.
Art and Architecture: There was a revival of monumental building projects, including temples and pyramids. Notable structures include the White Chapel of Senusret I and the pyramid complex of Amenemhat III at Hawara.
Artistic Style: Middle Kingdom art is characterized by realism and attention to detail. Statues and reliefs from this period often depict more realistic and individualized features.
Religion and Society
Religious Developments: The cult of Osiris became more prominent during the Middle Kingdom, reflecting a growing interest in the afterlife and personal piety. The construction of Osiris temples and the celebration of festivals dedicated to him became more common.
Social Structure: Society remained hierarchical, with the pharaoh at the top, followed by nobles, priests, scribes, and artisans. The increased centralization of power under the pharaohs of the Middle Kingdom contributed to social stability.
Decline of the Middle Kingdom
The Middle Kingdom began to decline during the later years of the Thirteenth Dynasty due to internal strife, weak pharaohs, and increasing pressure from foreign invaders, particularly the Hyksos. This decline ultimately led to the Second Intermediate Period, characterized by further fragmentation and foreign domination. In summary, the Middle Kingdom of Egypt was a period marked by political reunification, economic prosperity, military expansion, and a flourishing of arts and culture, leaving a lasting legacy in the history of ancient Egypt.
