Ancient Mysteries: Click The Linked Activity Title To Access

1ancient Mysteriesclick The Linked Activity Title To Access Assignmen

Use the course textbook and provided sources related to the theories of how/why the topic remains an ancient mystery.

Write a 3–4 paragraph essay (of at least 250–500 words) on the selected topic that includes the following (note each numbered topic in the list gets its own paragraph):

1. Introduction: Identify and describe the ancient mystery you selected. Provide a brief history. Summarize two theories: Provide a brief summary of at least two reasonable and scholarly theories from your textbook or the linked articles which could explain the mystery. Because some theories may sound far-fetched, include the source or promoter of each theory—such as a scientist, a historian, a theologian, and so on.
2. Select one theory: Choose one of the theories about the ancient mystery you selected that you agree with. Explain what it is that you agree with and why. Why is the theory you selected the best one to explain the mystery?
3. Conclusion: Reflect on what you learned and why it's important to our understanding of ancient history and culture. Why is it considered a mystery? Why does it hold such fascination centuries after its discovery?

This course requires use of Strayer Writing Standards (SWS). Please take a moment to review the SWS documentation for details. The specific course learning outcomes associated with this assignment are to describe a theory that provides a plausible explanation for an ancient mystery.

Paper For Above instruction

The ancient mysteries of history have intrigued scholars, archaeologists, and the general public for centuries, offering glimpses into civilizations that often leave more questions than answers. Among these enigmas are the death of King Tutankhamun, the young Egyptian pharaoh’s sudden demise, and the construction techniques of the Great Pyramids at Giza. These mysteries continue to fascinate because they reveal the technological, cultural, and religious complexities of ancient societies, yet they remain insufficiently understood due to limited archaeological evidence and the passage of time.

Two prominent theories attempt to explain the cause of Tutankhamun's death. The first theory suggests that he died from complications of a leg fracture that became infected, which could have been accidental or due to trauma. This theory, supported by forensic examinations of his mummy, involves experts like Dr. Zahi Hawass, who has argued that the injury was likely accidental, compounded by genetic disorders that made his body vulnerable. The second theory posits that Tutankhamun was murdered, possibly by rivals or within his own court, driven by political motives. Historians such as Dorothy Eady have speculated that foul play might have led to his demise, although concrete evidence remains elusive. Each theory offers plausible explanations: one emphasizes natural causes related to injury and health, while the other considers the political intrigue characteristic of ancient Egyptian court life.

Among these explanations, I find the injury and illness-based theory to be more convincing. I believe this because forensic analyses of Tutankhamun's remains show signs of a severe leg injury and genetic abnormalities, indicating his death could have resulted from a combination of accident-related complications and health issues. This theory aligns with biological evidence and provides a tangible cause that fits the context of his young age and physical condition at the time of death. It also circumvents the need to accept more speculative claims about conspiracy or murder without concrete proof. Understanding his death through scientific analysis helps us better comprehend the health and living conditions of ancient Egyptian royalty, contributing significantly to our grasp of their society’s medical knowledge and mortality.

The mystery of how the pyramids, especially the Great Pyramid of Giza, were constructed has persisted for millennia. Scholars have debated whether skilled laborers, slaves, or a combination of workers built these monumental structures, and whether they employed advanced engineering techniques or simple tools. One theory suggests that the Hebrews, using their knowledge and possibly enslaved labor, were responsible for the construction, based on biblical accounts and some archaeological evidence indicating the involvement of laborers during times of famine or hardship. Another prominent theory posits that the ancient Egyptians, with their advanced understanding of mathematics and engineering, built the pyramids as sacred tombs for their pharaohs, using large limestone blocks and sophisticated ramps or levering systems. This latter theory is supported by Egyptologists like Mark Lehner, who emphasize the Egyptians’ mastery of engineering and organized labor that enabled the pyramid's construction without modern machinery.

Personally, I find the Egyptian engineering theory more compelling. The archaeological evidence of quarrying sites, roadways, and the alignment of the pyramids with celestial bodies supports the idea that ancient Egyptians had the necessary knowledge and organization to accomplish such feats. The precision with which the blocks were cut and placed suggests a highly skilled workforce employing complex techniques. Accepting this theory helps us appreciate the ingenuity and technological sophistication of ancient Egypt, highlighting their ability to achieve extraordinary architectural feats with primitive tools. This understanding enriches our perception of their culture, religion, and societal organization, fostering respect for their achievements without assuming reliance on slave labor or external aid.

In conclusion, the study of ancient mysteries like the death of Tutankhamun and pyramid construction provides vital insights into early civilizations. These enigmas draw us into a dialogue with the past, revealing their technological capabilities, societal values, and religious beliefs. The fascination persists because these mysteries challenge modern assumptions about ancient societies’ knowledge and resources, sparking curiosity and scholarly inquiry. By examining the evidence and evaluating different theories critically, we deepen our understanding of how ancient peoples lived, died, and built some of history’s most iconic structures. These mysteries serve as a testament to human ingenuity and focus our appreciation on the enduring legacies of ancient cultures.

References

• Hawass, Z. (2010). The secrets of the tomb of Tutankhamun. Archaeology Magazine.
• Lehner, M. (2008). The Complete Pyramids: Celebrating 100 Years of the Tutankhamun Discovery. Thames & Hudson.
• Davidson, J. (2002). Egypt : A Short History. University of California Press.
• Arnold, D. (2003). The Encyclopedia of Ancient Egypt. Checkmark Books.
• Assmann, J. (2001). The Mind of Egypt: History and Meaning in the Time of the Pharaohs. Harvard University Press.
• Redford, D. B. (2007). Egypt, Canaan, and Israel in Ancient Times. Princeton University Press.
• Maspero, G. (2009). The Pyramids and the Cult of Kingship. Dover Publications.
• Friedman, F. D. (2015). Nile River and Egyptian Civilization. Oxford University Press.
• Schwartz, B. (2013). Engineering the Pyramids. Journal of Egyptian Archaeology.
• Davies, N. (1999). The Egyptian Book of the Dead and the Construction of the Pyramids. Harvard Divinity Bulletin.