At the same time, the Greek philosophical and scientific initiatives which Alexander had championed were given pride of place in the Ptolemaic political agenda. In particular, they celebrated the ancient cult of Isis, Osiris and Horus, soon known by his Greek name, Harpocrates. The longevity of Ptolemy's dynasty in Egypt derived from a delicate balancing act which is very evident from the 150 objects on view in the ISAW exhibit.Īfter assuming power, Ptolemy and his successors embraced the traditional culture of Egypt. His dynasty continued to rule Egypt for an amazing three centuries. Ptolemy's rule as Alexander's heir was solidified in 305 B.C., when he nominated himself as king. Ptolemy also seized custody of Alexander's body which he installed in an elaborate sarcophagus. Ptolemy took control of Egypt, the most easily defended province. Ptolemy was not "the strongest" of the Diadochi. One of Alexander's junior lieutenants, Ptolemaios or Ptolemy, survived the ensuing bloodbath. When the Greeks Ruled Egypt charts the social, cultural and religious aspects of Ptolemaic Egypt, the most enduring state to emerge from the chaos following Alexander's death. This bloodstained chapter in ancient history forms the political backdrop to a splendid exhibition at the Institute for the Study of the Ancient World (ISAW) of New York University. Before long, they were at each other’s throats like Mafia capos after the death of the Don. Legend has it that Alexander gasped in reply, "To the strongest."Īlexander's senior generals, known to history as the Diadochi or "successors," began to squabble over who should get what province to rule. As Alexander the Great lay dying in Babylon in 323 BC, he was asked to whom he would bequeath his vast empire.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Details
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |