The Role of the Pharaoh

Name: ______Class Per: ______

Directions:

Use the information slips provided in class to sort and organize the various roles and duties of the Pharaoh. First, read through all of the slips. Next, organize the slips into categories by deciding what they have in common. Last, write your idea for the category and the central idea of each duty in the boxes below.

Category: ______

It was the Pharaoh’s responsibility to establish, collect, and keep records of taxes. Since money was not used in ancient Egypt, taxes were usually paid in grain or food from the surplus of the harvests.

In order to demonstrate his or her greatness, the Pharaoh would initiate and oversee construction. These projects could include the building of roads, public buildings, irrigation canals, temples, monuments and any other structures the government might need.

In order to maintain Ma’at, or balance and harmony in the world, the Pharaoh had to protect Egypt from enemies of any kind. This could involve defending Egypt itself, of going out and attacking other civilizations for resources or wealth.

One of the most important duties of the Pharaoh was to serve as an intermediary between the gods and the people. The Pharaoh was expected to interpret and understand the will of the gods, and act in the way he or she thought would please the gods and preserve Ma’at, or balance and harmony in the world.

In the case of a drought or low flood, a surplus of food needed to be saved ahead of time. The Pharaoh was in charge of keeping the storage buildings full of food in case of disaster and to prevent famine.

Since Egyptians did not have all of the resources they wanted, the Pharaoh needed to initiate trade with other countries. Egyptian boats sailed around the Mediterranean, trading with the Phoenicians, Greeks, and Mesopotamians.

In the Middle and New Kingdoms, the Pharaoh was viewed as a strong military leader. He or she would be expected to lead the Egyptian troops into battle, often riding alongside the soldiers on a chariot.

The Pharaoh was thought to be half-man half-god, and therefore was in complete control of the entire country. His or her word was the law, and was the final say in all official matters. It was believed that the Pharaoh could use divine power to bring rain, find water, defeat enemies, or ensure the annual floods. Since the Pharaoh as thought to have these powers from the gods, any difficulties the Egyptians had could also be blamed on the Pharaoh.

After King Narmer (Menes) united Upper and Lower Egypt, the Pharaoh wore a dual red and white crown of both regions to symbolize his or her power over all of Egypt.

Since he or she was viewed as part god, the Pharaoh performed traditional rituals and speeches that were meant to ensure peace, prosperity, and happiness.

It was very important to know the when the annual floods would arrive. The Pharaoh was responsible for keeping records of the floods and harvests so that everyone was fed and safe.

The Pharaoh traveled throughout the country to inspect the principal cities of his realm. Since many cities were controlled by priests or governors, the Pharaoh needed to make sure everyone in the government was loyal.

During the Middle Kingdom, the Pharaoh was often a great military leader. He or she traveled around the country, reviewed troops and met with officers.

The Pharaoh held the title of “High Priest of Every Temple,” and was the ultimate authority on all matters of religion.