5.2 Reunification and the rise of the Middle Kingdom

The Eleventh Dynasty, based in Thebes, rose to power during the First Intermediate Period. Under Mentuhotep II, they reunited Egypt, marking the start of the Middle Kingdom. This period saw political reforms and centralization of power.

The Middle Kingdom brought cultural and artistic flourishing. Literature like "Tale of Sinuhe" emerged, while art and architecture blended tradition with innovation. Funerary practices evolved, introducing new styles and materials in tomb decorations and burial goods.

The Eleventh Dynasty and the Rise of the Middle Kingdom

Reunification under Eleventh Dynasty

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• Eleventh Dynasty, based in Thebes, gradually gained power and influence during First Intermediate Period
  • Mentuhotep II (2055-2004 BCE) emerged as powerful ruler defeating rival factions and consolidating control over Upper Egypt
• Mentuhotep II launched military campaigns to reunite Egypt
  • Successfully conquered Tenth Dynasty rulers of Herakleopolis who controlled Lower Egypt
  • Victory over Herakleopolis marked end of First Intermediate Period and beginning of Middle Kingdom
• Mentuhotep II established new capital at Thebes and proclaimed himself first pharaoh of Middle Kingdom
  • Adopted Horus name "Uniter of the Two Lands" symbolizing reunification of Upper and Lower Egypt
• Eleventh Dynasty rulers including Mentuhotep III and Mentuhotep IV continued to strengthen unity and stability of Middle Kingdom

Political and Administrative Reforms in the Middle Kingdom

Reforms for central authority

• Middle Kingdom pharaohs implemented reforms to consolidate power and centralize administration
  • Appointed loyal officials and family members to key positions in government and provinces
  • Position of vizier, chief minister responsible for overseeing administration, gained increased importance
• Rulers divided Egypt into administrative regions called nomes each governed by nomarch appointed by pharaoh
  • System allowed for more effective control and management of resources across country
• Pharaohs strengthened army and established standing professional military force
  • Helped maintain internal security, protect borders, and support pharaoh's authority
• Middle Kingdom rulers focused on improving irrigation systems and agricultural productivity
  • Built and maintained canals, dams, and reservoirs to control annual Nile floods and expand cultivable land (Faiyum Oasis)
  • Measures helped increase agricultural output and support growing population

The Twelfth Dynasty and the Expansion of Egyptian Influence

Twelfth Dynasty's power consolidation

• Twelfth Dynasty, founded by Amenemhat I (1991-1962 BCE), further strengthened Middle Kingdom
  • Amenemhat I moved capital to Itjtawy near Faiyum Oasis to establish more centralized location for administration
• Twelfth Dynasty pharaohs focused on expanding Egyptian influence beyond borders
  • Conducted military campaigns in Nubia to south securing control over valuable trade routes and resources (gold, ivory)
  • Established diplomatic relations and trade networks with neighboring regions (Levant, Mediterranean)
• Twelfth Dynasty rulers commissioned construction of impressive monuments and buildings
  • Pyramid complex of Amenemhat III at Hawara known as "Labyrinth" showcased dynasty's wealth and power
• Twelfth Dynasty's stability and prosperity laid foundation for cultural and artistic flourishing of Middle Kingdom

Cultural and Artistic Developments in the Middle Kingdom

Cultural developments of Middle Kingdom

• Middle Kingdom witnessed resurgence of literary and artistic creativity
  • "Tale of Sinuhe", famous literary work, reflects cultural values and ideals of period
  • Other notable literary pieces include "Instructions of Amenemhat" and "Prophecy of Neferti"
• Middle Kingdom art and architecture exhibited blend of continuity and innovation
  • Statues and reliefs depicted pharaohs and officials with more realistic and expressive features conveying sense of individuality
  • Use of block statues portraying subject in seated position with knees drawn up to chest became popular
• Middle Kingdom saw advancements in funerary practices and tomb design
  • Tombs of nobility featured detailed wall paintings and inscriptions providing insights into daily life, religious beliefs, and afterlife concepts
  • Use of wooden coffins with intricate decorations and texts known as "Coffin Texts" became widespread
• Middle Kingdom witnessed development of new artistic styles and motifs
  • Use of "smiling face" in royal and elite portraiture characterized by slightly upturned lips became hallmark of period
  • Artisans experimented with new materials (faience, glass) to create intricate jewelry and decorative objects