Planet Egypt

is an innovative and comprehensive program looking at the history of Ancient Egypt, from the pre-dynastic through to the late dynasties. Each episode addresses one aspect of the mystery of Egypt’s enormous success.

Part 1 Birth of an Empire
looks at how Egypt was founded. King Narmer claimed it was warfare. We discover that peace and collaboration were at least as important as the big battle that united Upper and Lower Egypt. Both war and peaceful collaboration laid the foundations for the Egyptian success story lasting more than 3000 years.

Part 2 Pharaohs at War
asks how Egypt maintained its relative independence for 3000 years. We answer this through Thutmosis III. He conquers more land than any other pharaoh. Yet ultimately he has no interest in establishing an expanding empire abroad. Like all pharaohs he is guided by the wish to establish peace and stability at home and secure the borders through forward defense. The pursuit of peace remains a key part of Egypt’s success story.

Part 3 Temples of Power
asks to what degree Egyptian cult was part of Egypt’s success story. Through Akhenaten’s ill fated revolution we discover just how powerful Egypt’s religious tradition really was. Egyptian cult prevails even when threatened by the pharaohs. The cult was the backbone of the country’s civilization; it was seen as the guarantor of the worldly order, and thereby helped to maintain inner peace and stability.

Part 4 Quest for Eternity
asks how Egypt’s belief in the afterlife could be part of its long term success. How could a society apparently obsessed with death survive for so long? We discover that Egypt’s specific belief in the afterlife was essential to the longevity of her civilization. The Egyptians liked their life so much; they wanted it to continue after their demise. Egypt’s belief in the afterlife provided focus for the population for more than 3000 years.

2 x 90' / 4 x 48' /4 x 44' / 4 x 43' (HD)
ZDF, ZDF-E, ARTE, HISTORY