Question

Although Pyramids are a distinct symbol of Egypt, large-scale pyramidal construction is limited to a relatively short period in the Old Kingdom of Egyptian history. What would be some reasons for the modification of pyramid scale and institution of rock-cut tombs as seen at Beni Hasan? Evaluate the effectiveness of later architecture in communicating Egyptian and Pharonic power.

Answer 1

So as to limit the numbers of tomb raiders/thieves.

Step-by-step explanation:

Please check the picture of Beni Hasan on google which is between the years 1850 - 1800 BC, you will see that the structures are in smaller scale unlike the normal large pyramid scale of Egypt. The main reason behind the building of the smaller scale structures is to make sure that thieves and tomb raiders are reduced. Also, many tribes and countries(including neighboring and foreign countries) also have their eyes on the great pyramids, so, what the Egyptians did was to build lower scale.

=> Evaluate the effectiveness of later architecture in communicating Egyptian and Pharonic power.

Well, the later architecture was not effective for a long time because the Hyksos later came to overthrow the Pharonic power in the area that have the pyramids and the reign of the Hyksos lasted for about two centuries before they were overthrown back too.

Answer 2

Check the explanation

Step-by-step explanation:

Around 2150 B.C., the power of the Pharaohs was challenged by feudal lords and the once-unified Egypt fell into a state of Civil War which lasted a century — the first intermediate period. Eventually, Egypt was united again and this event marked the beginning of the Middle Kingdom.

Rock-cut tombs, Beni Hasan, ca. 1950-1900 B.C.

Kindly check the attached images below

By this time, the Egyptians began to realize that the large pyramids were very obvious targets for tomb robbers. They continued to build pyramids, but on a much smaller scale so that they did not draw the attention of plunderers. They also built rock-cut tombs, such as the ones seen here at Beni Hasan, and developed more elaborate and hidden passages. In addition, they designed heavier, granite coffins which were more difficult to rob. As Gardner's points out, some of these entrance columns were fluted (that is, ornamented with vertical, rounded grooves). These probably reflected the aesthetic that was achieved for columns made from soft wood that had the bark stripped away by scraping along the vertical length of the log. This is interesting because we will see that the Ancient Greeks adopted this architectural ornament.

The Middle Kingdom fell with an invasion of foreign peoples — the Hyksos or shepherd kings. This was the second intermediate period. The Hyksos introduced the military innovations of horses and chariots, but, after two centuries, were eventually overthrown by the native Egyptian Kings. And so began the New Kingdom .