Egyptian Society

As I read through the history of the Egyptian civilization and surrounding and subsequent societies, there seem to be a number of reasons that the Egyptian civilization lasted for so long. Some of which were their isolation from other cultures, their belief in the power and appointment of the Pharaoh; their wealth and their oneness. Greer and Lewis paint a clear picture of how Egypt operated and the manner in which they lived.

The isolation in which the Egyptians had was a huge factor in their long rule and existence. They were distanced from many of the outside influences that would have and could have upset the balance they had acquired. By being separated and secluded, they were able to create their own “little world” if you will. By doing so, they believed they could last forever just like the pyramids they built. This is in contrast to the other societies that rose up in the Middle East. Many of the other empires were greatly influenced by other groups of people, which caused them to be more diverse and individualistic.

I believe the unity of the Egyptians, is one of the most viable factors of their survival as a long lasting empire. They lived as one society under one ruler. Their belief that Pharaoh was a God appointed ruler formed a Monarch that went unquestioned. Egyptians followed this ruler whole-heartedly, and His or Her (in the case of Hatshepsut) word was law. They served as Judge, jury, and law-giver. Everything flowed from the seat of the Pharaoh. Juxtapose this with groups such as Sumer and the Greeks. Greeks viewed their citizens as equal and part of the political decision making process. This is a stark contrast to the Egyptian style of leadership.

The position of Egypt on the map is another reason they enjoyed such a long period of existence. Living on the Nile River provided them with a variety of resources. Water, food, rich soil for farming and transportation. It also provided protection from outside groups. Living on the Nile provided some struggles though, especially when it came to flood season; however, the Egyptians learned how to work around the flooding using measures such as diverting water and planning the crop season in accordance with flood season. The other aiding factor in position for the Egyptians was the desert that bordered Egypt. Much of the desert is impassable even with modern vehicles. This barrier, allowed the Egyptians the protection they needed to be isolated and enjoy a life of perfection in their eyes.

The Egyptians believed they had the perfect life and thought that they were superior, and for a period of time they were. When you control what people think and know you are able to make them believe and act a certain way. If the leadership was able to choose to either accept or deny an outside influence, they had control over what the people came into contact with. You are happy with what you have and how you live until you come into contact with something that is different. By controlling what the Egyptian people knew, the Pharaoh and his leadership were able to control the people and thus keep them happy, unlike other people in civilizations who were free to explore and be influenced. Others were able to decide for themselves what they thought was good. When this happens, you have discontent and lack of order. I think the Egyptians understood this, and decided to control it from the outset.

Ultimately, the Egyptians differed greatly from other people groups. Rule through a single authority, wealth, geographical position, and isolation all enabled the Egyptians to enjoy a long and successful empire.