Alright, so if we have 'gay' cavemen, why not add some cross-dressing pharaohs?
Click HERE to read the article about this gender-confused ruler.
In this article put out by NewScientist, the author, Caroline Morley discusses the gender of famous female Pharaoh, Hatshepsut who ruled Egypt in the 15th century BC. She was actually quite a successful and long reign. Despite her sex, Hatshepsut was often depicted as a man as not only according to their belief, all Pharaohs were sons of their god, Amon-Re. As well to boot, she apparently dressed like male Pharaoh.
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| Egyptian Pharaoh, Hatshepsut |
As Hatshepsut was such a good leader, it is possible that people thought she could not actually be a women, even though she was . It was quite common then and throughout history that women are seen less than men, and where in order for women to voice her opinion or make social change, they have to assume a more masculine position. However, unlike the Ancient Greeks who are quite famous for their chauvinistic ways, the Egyptians were much more 'liberal' when it came to women's right. For example, Egyptian women could participate in religious rites, control their dowries and inherit property (Thompson).
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| Hatshepsut's Temple |
If there was such a liberty for women even in this ancient time, why would Hatshepsut be depicted as a man, or even dress like one. According to Ray John's article, Hatshepsut was in a difficult situation, because if something unfortunate happened, such as a loss in battle, she could easily be blamed for it.
Even though she was apparently an excellent ruler with much experience and charisma, I think that since she was still female, she struggled much during her reign. By wearing the male clothes, it was her way to show that one could still rule, whatever sex they were. Also, this is evidence that she was willing to go to incredibly lengths to prove that she could do her job, and do it well.
Thompson, James C. "Women in Ancient Egypt." http://www.womenintheancientworld.com/women_in_ancient_egypt .htm
John, Ray. 1994. Hatshepsut: The Female Pharaoh. History Today. 44 (5), p. 23 - 29.
Interesting, if there was any one that bended gender lines, he would be it. I wonder why this hasn't had quite the same attention as the "gay caveman".
ReplyDeleteShe, rather.
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