The role Nefertiti played in Akhenaten’s reign
Not just a pretty face, Queen Nefertiti was a powerbroker whose political and religious reforms, particularly in monotheistic worship of Aten, made the core of her reign. Image: The bust of Queen Nefertiti of the New Kingdom, from the Egyptian Museum of Berlin collection, presently in the Neues Museum
Nefertiti, one of ancient Egypt’s most enigmatic and influential queens, played a pivotal role during the reign of her husband, Pharaoh Akhenaten. Her influence extended beyond that of a traditional queen consort, contributing significantly to the religious, political, and cultural landscape of the 18th Dynasty.
In the article below, ancient Egyptian historians at World History Edu take a deep dive into the various aspects of Nefertiti’s role in Akhenaten’s reign, exploring her involvement in the radical religious transformations, her political influence, and her depiction in art and inscriptions.
Background: The Amarna Period
The reign of Akhenaten, originally known as Amenhotep IV, marked a dramatic shift in Egyptian history, commonly referred to as the Amarna Period. This era is named after the new capital city, Akhetaten (modern-day Amarna), which Akhenaten established as a center for his revolutionary religious reforms.
King Akhenaten’s reign, lasting from approximately 1353 to 1336 BC, is best known for the introduction of Atenism, a monotheistic worship centered on Aten, the sun disc. This period saw a departure from the traditional Egyptian pantheon of gods and a move towards the exclusive worship of Aten. Nefertiti was not merely a passive observer of these changes; she was an active participant and a driving force behind many of these innovations.
Nefertiti played a multifaceted and significant role during Akhenaten’s reign. Her involvement in the radical religious reforms of Atenism, her potential political co-regency, and her prominent depiction in art all underscore her importance. Image: Akhenaten, Nefertiti and their daughters before the Aten. Stela of Akhenaten and his family, Egyptian Museum, Cairo.
Religious Reforms and Nefertiti’s Role
Nefertiti’s most significant contribution during Akhenaten’s reign was her involvement in the religious reforms that defined the Amarna Period. Akhenaten’s focus on Aten was unprecedented, and Nefertiti was depicted as sharing in this devotion. Together, they promoted Atenism, often being portrayed in a near-equal partnership, worshipping Aten as a divine couple.
Image: Statue of Akhenaten, located at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, Egypt.
One of the most striking examples of Nefertiti’s religious role is her frequent depiction in Atenist rituals and iconography. She is often shown performing offerings and worshipping alongside Akhenaten, a departure from the traditional roles of queens who were typically depicted in more subsidiary positions. In many reliefs, Nefertiti is shown with the same prominence as Akhenaten, indicating her significant religious status.
Nefertiti’s titles further illustrate her religious importance. She was referred to as “Great Royal Wife,” “Lady of All Women,” and “Mistress of Upper and Lower Egypt.” These titles not only emphasized her high status but also her integral role in the religious hierarchy of Atenism. Additionally, Nefertiti’s epithet “Neferneferuaten” (which means “Beautiful are the Beauties of Aten”) underscores her connection to the sun god and her role as a religious intermediary.
Nefertiti worshipping the Aten. She is given the title of Mistress of the Two Lands. On display at the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford.
Political Influence and Co-Regency
Nefertiti’s influence was not limited to religious affairs; she also played a crucial role in the political sphere. Evidence suggests that she may have been a co-regent alongside Akhenaten, effectively ruling as his equal. This is a significant departure from the typical role of queens in ancient Egypt, who, while influential, rarely shared power to this extent.
Several pieces of evidence support the theory of Nefertiti’s co-regency. In many depictions, she is shown wearing the pharaonic crown and performing duties typically reserved for the pharaoh. This visual representation suggests that she was seen as a co-ruler.
Furthermore, Nefertiti was often depicted smiting enemies, a role traditionally reserved for the king, symbolizing her active participation in the defense and governance of Egypt.
The possibility of Nefertiti adopting a new name and ruling as a pharaoh in her own right after Akhenaten’s death has been a subject of scholarly debate. Some Egyptologists believe she may have taken on the name Neferneferuaten and ruled briefly before the ascension of Tutankhamun. If true, this would further underscore her political acumen and significant role in the transition period following Akhenaten’s death.
Nefertiti’s husband’s reign ushered in turbulent times in Egyptian history. The royal couple had tossed the old gods, primarily based in Thebes, and established a somewhat new religion with the sun god Aten at the top of the pyramid. This incurred the displeasure of many Theban priests and religious leaders. Image: Akhenaten and Nefertiti. Louvre Museum, Paris.
Artistic Depictions and Symbolism
The Amarna Period is also notable for its distinctive artistic style, which differed markedly from the traditional Egyptian canon. This new style, characterized by more naturalistic and expressive forms, also played a role in highlighting Nefertiti’s prominence. The famous bust of Nefertiti, discovered in 1912 by German archaeologist Ludwig Borchardt, is a testament to the artistry of this period and to her enduring beauty and status.
In Amarna art, Nefertiti is often depicted with elongated features, a distinctive crown, and in scenes of familial intimacy that were unprecedented in earlier Egyptian art. These depictions not only served a decorative purpose but also conveyed political and religious messages. The portrayal of Nefertiti in such prominent and intimate positions alongside Akhenaten helped to reinforce the image of a unified and divinely sanctioned rulership.
Nefertiti’s imagery was also used to propagate the religious reforms of Atenism. She is frequently shown alongside Akhenaten and their daughters, all worshipping Aten. These scenes were not just religious depictions but also political statements, illustrating the royal family as the central devotees and intermediaries of the new monotheistic faith.
Influence on Succession and Legacy
Nefertiti’s influence extended beyond her lifetime, affecting the succession and legacy of the Amarna Period. The abrupt end of Akhenaten’s reign and the subsequent return to traditional religious practices under Tutankhamun marked a significant shift. However, the impact of Nefertiti’s role during Akhenaten’s reign lingered.
The transition from Akhenaten to Tutankhamun is shrouded in mystery, with some scholars suggesting that Nefertiti, under the name Neferneferuaten, may have served as a transitional figure. Her potential role in this tumultuous period indicates her deep involvement in the political machinations of the time.
Nefertiti’s legacy is also evident in the subsequent portrayals of powerful queens in Egyptian history. Her depiction as an influential and active queen set a precedent for future queens, such as Hatshepsut and Cleopatra, who would also wield significant power. Nefertiti’s combination of religious devotion, political acumen, and regal presence provided a model for these later figures.
Frequently Asked Questions about Queen Nefertiti
Nefertiti was not only a queen but also a powerful co-regent. She was deeply involved in Akhenaten’s religious reforms and was often depicted in a position of power and influence, performing acts traditionally reserved for the pharaoh. Image: Heads of Akhenaten and Nefertiti 18th Dynasty Egypt
Nefertiti was the Great Royal Wife of Pharaoh Akhenaten. She is known for her beauty, as depicted in the famous bust that resides in the Neues Museum in Berlin. Nefertiti played a prominent role in the religious revolution that Akhenaten is credited with, which involved the worship of a single god, Aten, the sun disc.
Here are some frequently asked questions about her:
When did Nefertiti live?
Nefertiti lived during the 14th century BC. Her life dates are often given as approximately 1370 BC to around 1330 BC.
What was Nefertiti’s full name?
Nefertiti’s full name was Neferneferuaten Nefertiti, which means “Beautiful are the Beauties of Aten, the Beautiful One has Come.”
Many analysts opine that Nefertiti received far less credit than she was due though she championed the restoration of Egypt when it was in complete disorder. Image: Granite head statue of Nefertiti, Altes Museum, Berlin.
Did Nefertiti become a pharaoh?
There is some evidence to suggest that Nefertiti may have ruled as a pharaoh after Akhenaten’s death, possibly under the name Neferneferuaten. However, this is still a subject of debate among historians and Egyptologists.
Limestone relief of Nefertiti kissing one of her daughters, Brooklyn Museum, New York, United States
How many children did Nefertiti have?
Nefertiti and Akhenaten are believed to have had six daughters: Meritaten, Meketaten, Ankhesenpaaten (later known as Ankhesenamun), Neferneferuaten Tasherit, Neferneferure, and Setepenre.
The iconic wife of King Akhenaten ruled Egypt with her husband under the 18th dynasty of ancient Egypt. Nothing was heard of Nefertiti after the 12-year rule of Akhenaten. However, 21st century historians suggest that she may have become her husband’s regent under a different name: Neferneferuaten. Image: Queen Nefertiti offering oil to the Aten. Brooklyn Museum.
What happened to Nefertiti after Akhenaten’s death?
The fate of Nefertiti after Akhenaten’s death is unclear and remains one of the great mysteries of ancient Egyptian history. Some theories suggest she continued to rule under a different name, while others believe she died or was deposed.
In last decade of Pharaoh Akhenaten’s reign, worship of the Theban Triad was suppressed. As a result, Akhenaten was referred to as Egypt’s heretic pharaoh. Image: Head of Akhenaten
Where is Nefertiti’s tomb?
The location of Nefertiti’s tomb is unknown. There has been much speculation and numerous searches, but her final resting place has yet to be definitively identified.
Why is Nefertiti’s bust so famous?
The bust of Nefertiti, discovered in 1912 by German archaeologist Ludwig Borchardt, is renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship and representation of her beauty. It has become one of the most iconic symbols of ancient Egypt.
How did Nefertiti influence Egyptian art?
During Nefertiti’s time, there was a significant shift in Egyptian art known as the Amarna style. This style is characterized by more realistic and expressive depictions of people, in contrast to the rigid and formal style that preceded it. Nefertiti’s imagery often highlights her unique beauty and regal stature.
