Written by: Aarav Timilsina - 28028, Grade IX
Posted on: 29 April, 2024
Egypt is home to one of the most recognizable and prominent leaders in history and one of the most interesting and daring is Queen Hatshepsut, the queen of the 18th dynasty of Ancient Egypt. Over the years, she has proven herself to be quite an enigma with mysterious origins and ruling techniques. All the information found about her is speculated by talented archaeologists and historians. Though Egypt was known for keeping papyrus scrolls with lengthy descriptions of the Pharaohs. The truth behind there being no existing documents about Hatshepsut is a tragic one indeed.
Hatshepsut, whose name means “ Foremost of fair maidens”, was born around 1507 BC. She was the daughter of the remarkable Pharaoh Thutmose I and queen Ahmose. Scriptures proved her to be brilliant in reading and writing and was trained by the royal scribes. She married her half brother Thutmose II and became the next Great Royal Wife. However, he quickly died of illness and left Hatshepsut widowed and a child to take care of. She became her stepson Thutmose III godmother who was just a child at the time. The counselors advised her to pick a new Pharaoh. After several years of dispute, Hatshepsut finally claimed her throne as Pharaoh of Ancient Egypt. She was publicly regarded as second in command after Thutmose III but was obligated to be the dominant figure till Thutmose came of age. She was an admirable Pharaoh and cared deeply for her subjects. She was also a remarkable builder who commissioned several monumental works such as the Karnak Temple Complex and the Famous Mortuary Temple at Deir el-Bahari. Despite her admirable work her subjects were not comfortable with her reign. She ruled Egypt for the longest period of time and gave it time to prosper. In scriptures she is often referred to as Hatshepsut with a male suffix which she altered herself, she also wore men’s clothing and a fake beard. Her humor and artistic presentation was hated by her subjects .Her position induced many riots but Hatshepsut remains unbothered. Truly an immovable obstacle. Due to the time period and religious beliefs. Hatshepsut was shamed and laughed at. Many made constant attempts to bring her down because her presence could influence other women to seek positions as well. Hatshepsut’s mindset was truly complex and way ahead of her time.
Despite the hatred from her people, Hatshepsut was prideful. She was proud of her creations and accomplishments, proud to know that she lasted more than three pharaohs' reigns. She died around 1458 BC, and after her death, subjects tried to remove her from history. They burned her writings and destroyed her statues but none could erase such a prominent figure engraved in stone. She is now regarded as one of the most successful pharaohs of all time. Unlike most Pharaohs she died fulfilled. Her tomb was discovered and her sarcophagus, which was 9.8 feet long, was found in the final chamber embroidered with yellow quartzite. Her story is one of courage and determination to stand against the crowd and prosper .
