Egyptianization: Tackling Faulty Narratives with Respect to Ancient Nubian and Ancient Egyptian Relationships

Abstract

The study of Ancient Nubia has been beset by barriers to accurate information. One such barrier, Egyptocentrism, negatively impacts the narrative of Ancient Egyptian and Ancient Nubian relationships by solely placing focus on Egypt without regard to Nubia. Egyptocentric thought, such as the idea of “Egyptianization”, and the theory of Egypt in a vacuum are two of the most poignant narratives perpetrated by scholars. Egyptianization implies the assimilation of Egyptian traits and downplays Nubian identity, agency, and culture. It suggests that Nubians lacked a distinct culture of their own and relied upon Egypt for their identity and ability to nation build. The theory of Egypt suggests that Egypt came into being separately from Nubia and Africa as a whole. In doing so, the theory perpetuates otherness by claiming that Nubia and Egypt are not related in their identity. Through archaeological, iconographic, and historical evidence, this article will examine these theories and the validity of them. At length, it will be shown why such narratives are faulty, outdated, and in need of re-evaluation.