Ramesses II

Definition

Ramesses II, also known as Ramesses the Great, was the third pharaoh of the Nineteenth Dynasty of Egypt, reigning from 1279 to 1213 BCE. He is celebrated for his extensive building projects, including monumental temples, which defined the architecture of the New Kingdom. His reign is marked by military prowess, diplomatic achievements, and a strong emphasis on the construction of grand structures that showcased both his power and devotion to the gods.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ramesses II is often regarded as one of Egypt's most effective and celebrated pharaohs due to his extensive construction initiatives that left a lasting legacy.
2. His temple at Abu Simbel features four colossal statues of himself at its entrance, symbolizing his power and divine status.
3. Ramesses II led numerous military campaigns, notably against the Hittites, which were significant for both their scale and their impact on Egypt's territorial integrity.
4. He is credited with signing one of the first recorded peace treaties in history following the Battle of Kadesh with the Hittite king Muwatalli II.
5. Ramesses II's reign lasted 66 years, making him one of the longest-reigning pharaohs in ancient Egyptian history.

Review Questions

• How did Ramesses II's architectural contributions reflect his power and influence during the New Kingdom?
  • Ramesses II's architectural projects, such as the temples at Abu Simbel and his expansions at Karnak, were designed not just for religious purposes but also to project his power and divine status. The grandeur of these constructions showcased his authority as pharaoh and served as a testament to his accomplishments in warfare and diplomacy. These monumental works were intended to ensure his legacy would endure through time, reinforcing his image as a powerful ruler among both Egyptians and foreign nations.
• In what ways did the Battle of Kadesh influence Ramesses II's reign and historical legacy?
  • The Battle of Kadesh was a defining moment in Ramesses II's reign that highlighted both his military skills and political strategy. Although it ended in a stalemate, Ramesses framed it as a great victory in his inscriptions and monuments, which helped bolster his reputation. The subsequent peace treaty with the Hittites established a long-lasting alliance, marking one of the first formal diplomatic agreements in history and enhancing Ramesses’s image as a wise and effective ruler.
• Evaluate the significance of Ramesses II's long reign on Egyptian culture and architecture during the New Kingdom.
  • Ramesses II's lengthy rule had profound implications for Egyptian culture and architecture. His extensive building programs not only transformed the landscape with grand temples but also set a precedent for future pharaohs regarding monumental architecture as a means of expressing power. The cultural advancements during his reign included advancements in art, literature, and religious practices that reinforced traditional beliefs while also integrating new ideas. This blend helped sustain Egypt's status as a powerful civilization for generations after his death.

Related terms

Karnak Temple: A vast temple complex in Luxor, dedicated primarily to the Theban triad of Amun, Mut, and Khonsu, which served as a major center of worship during the New Kingdom.

Abu Simbel: Two massive rock temples in southern Egypt built by Ramesses II to honor himself and the goddess Hathor, showcasing his architectural style and religious devotion.

Battle of Kadesh: A significant military conflict between Ramesses II and the Hittites, considered one of the largest chariot battles in history, which ended in a peace treaty that demonstrated Ramesses's diplomatic skills.