Assignment 1: Essay Due Week 4 And Worth 100 Points
Assignment 1: Essay Due Week 4 and worth 100 points Choose one (1) of the topics below and develop
Clearly state the “mystery” and provide a brief summary of at least two (2) theories 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, etc. Identify one (1) of the theories and provide at least two (2) convincing reasons why the theory you have chosen is the best one to explain the mystery. Use at least two (2) sources besides the textbook.
Paper For Above instruction
The ancient world's mysteries have fascinated scholars and the general public alike for centuries. Among the most enduring enigmas are the construction of the pyramids at Giza and the sudden collapse of the Mayan civilization. These mysteries continue to stimulate debate and investigation, each with various theories attempting to provide explanations. In this essay, I will explore the mystery of how the Great Pyramids were constructed and examine two prominent theories: the use of sophisticated engineering techniques by the Egyptians and the possibility of extraterrestrial assistance. Subsequently, I will analyze which of these theories best explains the mystery based on available evidence.
The construction of the Great Pyramids at Giza remains one of the most astonishing feats of ancient engineering. The primary mystery centers on how the Egyptians managed to build such monumental structures thousands of years ago without modern machinery. One prominent theory, supported by Egyptologists like Mark Lehner, suggests that the Egyptians employed advanced knowledge of mathematics and engineering. This theory posits that a large workforce of skilled laborers and engineers used ramps, levers, and sledges to transport and position massive stone blocks with remarkable precision. The evidence for this theory derives from archaeological findings of worker towns, quarry sites, and the discovery of tools indicating advanced construction techniques (Lehner, 1998). On the other hand, some proponents, like author and researcher Robert Temple, propose that extraterrestrial beings influenced or assisted in the construction process. Temple’s theory relies on the pyramids’ precise alignment with celestial bodies, suggesting an otherworldly knowledge that surpasses what was available to ancient Egyptians. While fascinating, this theory lacks direct archaeological evidence and is criticized for its speculative nature (Temple, 2009).
Among these theories, the Egyptian engineering hypothesis appears more plausible and better supported by tangible evidence. Firstly, the discoveries of ramps and tools directly associated with construction sites provide physical evidence of human ingenuity and engineering capability. Secondly, the consistent architectural styles and construction methodologies across ancient Egyptian monuments suggest a developed knowledge system passed down through generations. These points strongly support the idea that the Egyptians used sophisticated human-made methods rather than external assistance. Therefore, the engineering theory comprehensively accounts for the construction techniques available at the time and aligns with the archaeological record, making it the most convincing explanation of how the pyramids were built.
References
- Lehner, M. (1998). The Complete Pyramids. Thames & Hudson.
- Temple, R. (2009). The Sphinx Mystery: The Forging of a Great Secret. Bear & Company.
- Hassan, F. (2001). The Pyramids: The Archaeology of Egypt’s Royal Cemeteries. Routledge.
- Wilkinson, R. H. (2000). The Complete Gods and Goddesses of Ancient Egypt. Thames & Hudson.
- Arnold, D. (1992). The Royal Tombs of Ancient Egypt. Thames & Hudson.
- Hawass, Z. (2007). A New Look at the Pyramids. American University in Cairo Press.
- Manniche, L. (1997). Egypt: Anatomy of a Civilisation. Cornell University Press.
- O’Connor, D. (2009). Egyptian Mythology and Egyptian Art. In The Oxford History of Ancient Egypt. Oxford University Press.
- Ryan, C. (2010). Ancient Egypt and Its Neighbors. BRILL.
- Davidson, J. (1998). The Pharaohs: The Life and Death of Ancient Egyptian Rulers. Thames & Hudson.