Pharaoh Tutankhamun cardboard kit
Peace, at last, and new traditions for Egypt
Archaeologist Howard Carter made a lucky find in 1922, discovering the tomb of an Egyptian Pharaoh in the so-called valley of kings and bringing to surface most impressive items. The sarcophagus of the ruler was made of pure gold and he wore a death mask sculpted with his face in gold. He must have been enthroned when he was just nine years old, what made him the youngest Pharaoh of all times! His name was Tutankhamun. During his reign peace was established all over Egypt. He reversed the monotheistic revolution of his father Akhenaten who abolished the old gods for one unique power called Aten and brought back the older cult of Amun.
An Egyptian ruler who never had a chance to become adult
His predecessor as king, Akhenaten (who was Amenhotep IV before he adopted a new name for himself), neglected the relations with other reigns and focused on a strictly domestic policy. His reforms were carried out against resistance in the land and caused turmoil. Now, with the young Pharaoh in power, Egypt could settle down and return to its roots, the fights over faith issues ceased. Consequently with the restoration Tutankhamun gave up the new capital of his father, Akhetaten, dedicated to Aten, and returned to Thebes. Until today it is not clear who actually was Tutankhamun’s mother. Also the question if he was murdered or killed because of a tragic accident cannot be solved completely. Scholars most recently suspect a case of combined infection of his broken leg and malaria were bringing him to early death. What can be said for sure is the time of his reign, ending in 1323 BC, as the 18th dynasty of the New Kingdom.
A most fascinating legend of 3000 years of age
Unfortunately the royal boy never had a chance to grow up to become an adult, because he died when he was between 18 and 19 years old. Some researchers claim Tutankhamun never had real power during his reign in ancient Egypt but was overshadowed by omnipotent court people who took decisions for him. He became Pharaoh when he was a child of nine years and at this point certainly needed advisers and his mother, the last king’s widow, for guidance. The tragedy of his story and the untouched splendor of his tomb made him a legend. Most probably he was a good and righteous king bringing peace to his country, but records are few.
Revive the old times
Ignite enthusiasm in your pupils or students for the exotic 14th century BC and teach them something about what happened back then. Tell them the story of an unlucky Pharao on the throne since his child age and fighting the disturbing spirits his father had unleashed in opposition to the land. Convey knowledge about ancient Egypt, one of the early mighty empires ormankind, and bring those days back into life by your narration. Our cardboard kit of Pharaoh Tutankhamun is capable of adding much charm to your lessons and turns them into a lasting memory of your audience!
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