Assessing Amenhotep III’s Reign

Amenhotep III’s reign provides the focus for this documentary about ancient Egyptian kingship. The episode considers his place among Egypt’s pharaohs and the reputation that has prompted the question of whether he was one of its greatest rulers.

Historical background

Amenhotep III ruled during Egypt’s Eighteenth Dynasty, a period associated with royal wealth, diplomacy, and monumental building. His reign left an extensive architectural legacy, including the statues now called the Colossi of Memnon. Diplomatic exchange and marriage linked Egypt to other major powers. His kingship also provides important background to the later reign of his son Akhenaten and the transformation of royal religious policy.