Step back in time to the monumental Battle of Kadesh in 1275 BCE, where the Egyptian Pharaoh Ramses II faced off against the Hittite king Muwatalli in a clash of empires. It explores the packaging and presentation of this historic event to both local Egyptian and broader Near Eastern audiences during pivotal moments in history.
At the heart of this story is Ramses II's lavish commemoration of the battle on the temple walls of Egypt, leaving a lasting legacy that endures today in places like Abu Simbel, Abydos, Karnak, Luxor, and the Ramesseum. The monumental reliefs depicting Ramses II charging into the chaos of combat on his chariot offer a window into the past, where Egyptian troops clashed with the Hittite army beside the Orontes River, encircling the fortified citadel of Kadesh.
This book takes an in-depth look at the ongoing construction and understanding of the Battle of Kadesh as it evolved within specific social contexts. It's a must-read for history enthusiasts, military historians, and anyone intrigued by the multifaceted significance of this ancient epic battle. Explore the grandeur and intrigue of an event that shaped the course of history.