Question

What is most unusual about the pharaoh Hatshepsut, given she ruled during a time when societies were largely patriarchal?

a) She was the only female pharaoh in Egyptian history.
b) She ruled for over 20 years.
c) She expanded trade routes and established diplomatic relations.
d) She wore male clothing to assert her authority.

Answer 1

Hatshepsut was most unusual in that she was a woman who declared herself pharaoh during patriarchal ancient Egypt and depicted herself with masculine features to assert her authority. Her prosperous 20-year reign included military campaigns, trade expansion, and diplomatic relations, while challenging traditional gender roles.

Step-by-step explanation:

What is most unusual about the pharaoh Hatshepsut, given she ruled during a time when societies were largely patriarchal, is not just one but a combination of factors that demonstrate her unique standing among Egyptian rulers. Most notably, Hatshepsut was a female who declared herself pharaoh, a predominantly male position, particularly during the patriarchal society of ancient Egypt.

She stands out because she asserted her authority in this male-dominated role by depicting herself in statues with masculine features, such as the pharaonic headdress and ceremonial beard, and even wearing male clothing to reinforce her position as the king of Egypt.