You often hear the term “great” used to describe third king of the 19th Dynasty, Ramses II. But this brings up the questions: is it a proper description of him; when did he receive it, and was he and his reign really great? Among other roles, ancient Egyptian Kings functioned as the head of the military; he was the high priest of every god, the supreme authority over the creation and administration of all laws.  In addition, he was the intermediary between his people and the gods.  In this presentation, the speaker will look into the question of whether Ramses II was in fact “great” in these roles.

This program is supported by Elizabeth Moyer, PhD, and Michael Powanda, PhD; Bernard and Jane von Bothmer, in honor of the late Bernard V. Bothmer; and Sheila Wishek.