Art Of Ancient Egypt And Aegean Art On YouTube
Art Of Ancient Egypt Aegean Art And Dvdwatch On Youtube Thedvdnova
Art of Ancient Egypt, Aegean Art, and DVD: Watch on youtube the DVD : Nova-Secrets of Lost Empires: Pyramids (PBS 1997). Take notes and type a 1 page paper on what you learned about the construction of the pyramids of Egypt. Make sure you watch the same video listed above and write 1 page about what is in the video. No other sources please (just the video) please provide a direct link of the video at the end of the paper.
Paper For Above instruction
The documentary "Secrets of Lost Empires: Pyramids," produced by PBS in 1997, provides an in-depth exploration of the remarkable construction techniques used to build the Egyptian pyramids, particularly focusing on the Great Pyramid of Giza. The film delves into archaeological findings, engineering challenges, and the ingenious methods employed by ancient Egyptian builders, offering viewers a comprehensive understanding of this marvel of engineering.
One of the most fascinating aspects presented in the documentary is the meticulous planning and logistical organization involved in pyramid construction. The Egyptians had to mobilize thousands of workers, including skilled artisans and laborers, to quarry, transport, and assemble massive stone blocks. The video emphasizes that contrary to popular belief, the workforce was not composed of slaves but rather a well-organized labor force that worked in rotating shifts, supported by a system of supply and provisioning that sustains large work crews for extended periods.
The documentary highlights the ingenious methods used to transport the enormous stones from quarries to the construction site. For example, river transport played a crucial role, utilizing the Nile River to bring limestone and granite blocks closer to the construction site. Once on land, the stones were moved using a combination of sledges and lubrication techniques—such as pouring water on the sand—to reduce friction, making it easier to slide the massive blocks over short distances. The film provides visual recreations and models illustrating these techniques, emphasizing their practicality and ingenuity.
In terms of construction techniques, the documentary discusses the precise alignment of the pyramids. The builders succeeded in aligning the pyramid with remarkable accuracy to the cardinal points, using simple tools like plumb bobs, leveling instruments, and astronomical observations. The interior chambers and passageways were carefully designed to prevent structural collapse and facilitate the burial rituals for the pharaohs. The film underscores the level of sophistication in not only the engineering but also the organization and knowledge of astronomy that the ancient Egyptians possessed.
Furthermore, the documentary explores recent archaeological discoveries that shed light on how the blocks were transported and assembled. For example, evidence suggests the existence of large ramps—straight or zigzagging—that assisted in moving stones upward as the pyramid rose. Different theories about the nature and structure of these ramps are discussed, indicating ongoing debates among Egyptologists. Despite these uncertainties, it is clear that the construction of the pyramids was an extraordinary achievement combining engineering skill, astronomical knowledge, and organizational prowess.
In conclusion, "Secrets of Lost Empires: Pyramids" offers a detailed visual and factual account of how ancient Egyptians built the iconic pyramids. It underscores the complexity, sophistication, and ingenuity that went into these constructions, illustrating that such feats were possible through careful planning, innovative techniques, and remarkable determination. Watching this documentary enhances our appreciation of ancient Egyptian engineering and the cultural significance of their monumental architecture.
The documentary can be viewed at:
References
- PBS. (1997). Secrets of Lost Empires: Pyramids [DVD]. PBS.
- Lehner, M. (1997). The Complete Pyramids: Solving the Ancient Mysteries. Thames & Hudson.
- Hawass, Z. (2010). The Pyramids: The Mystery Unveiled. Smithsonian Institution.
- Lehner, M. (2008). The Egyptian Pyramid Complex. Routledge.
- Wilkinson, R. H. (2000). The Complete Gods and Goddesses of Ancient Egypt. Thames & Hudson.
- Isler, M. (2013). The Pyramids: The Mystery of their Construction. Smithsonian Magazine.
- Fagan, B. (2010). Ancient Egyptian Architecture. Oxford University Press.
- Verner, M. (2001). The Pyramids: The Evolution of Egyptian Architecture. I.B. Tauris.
- Adams, R. (1984). The Pyramids and Temples of Giza. University of Chicago Press.
- James, T. G. H. (2005). The Great Pyramid: Ancient Egypt Revisited. Cambridge University Press.