The 25th Dynasty Kushite Rule and Geopolitical Conflict • Sequence • Lenny.com

The 25th Dynasty Kushite Rule and Geopolitical Conflict

This undergraduate-level sequence explores the 25th Dynasty of Egypt, examining the rise of Kushite power, the conquest of Egypt by Piye, the cultural synthesis of the 'Black Pharaohs,' and the geopolitical clashes with the Neo-Assyrian Empire. Students will engage with primary sources, art history, and comparative historiography.

Chaos and Power Vacuums

Students map the political anarchy of the Libyan Period in Egypt to understand the power vacuum that allowed Kush to rise, focusing on decentralization and the role of the God's Wife of Amun.

Piye's Conquest Manifesto

A deep dive into the Victory Stele of Piye, analyzing the text as military report and theological manifesto to understand how Piye legitimized his rule.

The Art of Legitimacy

An examination of 25th Dynasty art and architecture, focusing on the 'archaizing' style and the synthesis of Kushite and Egyptian iconography.

Iron Age World War

Analysis of the geopolitical conflict between Taharqa and the Neo-Assyrian empire, comparing biblical, Assyrian, and Egyptian records.

Meroe and Cultural Innovation

Investigation of the Kushite retreat to Meroe, the development of Meroitic script, and the evolution of a distinct Meroitic culture.

The 25th Dynasty Kushite Rule and Geopolitical Conflict

This undergraduate-level sequence explores the 25th Dynasty of Egypt, examining the rise of Kushite power, the conquest of Egypt by Piye, the cultural synthesis of the 'Black Pharaohs,' and the geopolitical clashes with the Neo-Assyrian Empire. Students will engage with primary sources, art history, and comparative historiography.