The Amarna Period

Posted by Robert McRoberts Sep 8, 2009

As I write about the Late Bronze Age, especially that sliver of time dubbed the Amarna Period, ca 1350-1320 B.C.E., I often get the comment from someone that they were unaware of the level of intrigue and international diplomacy that lies underneath the usual historical overview. These observations are possible thanks to the lucky archeaological finds of ancient archives in Egypt, Turkey and Syria which make these few decades some of the best documented in all of early ancient history.

This unique insight into ancient correspondence allows us to appreciate the diverse and vast community of political players. We can see how Pharaohs, Kings, Queens, Princes, Princesses and a myriad of others operated to better there own positions while maintaining a prescribed diplomatic protocol. Not only are many private machinations exposed but it is also evident that nearly 3,500 years ago, as war and plague were ravaging the land, the Great Kings of the Near East were still expected to adhere to codes of international law or loose the respect of their peers.

It is this chance to see the leaders of humanity struggle to maintain the illusion of decency as their empires crumbled that compels me the most. The underlying plot in this ancient account has been repeated many times since. There is a time of prosperity and peace and within a few generations it is gone, replaced by uncertianty and strife, which is then capitalized upon by those who seek to build new empires or those who seek to enlighten.