Compare & Contrast: Egypt and Mesopotamia
Throughout the history of the earth, man has evolved from nomadic hunters and gatherers into the civilized people we are today. Studying this progression, we come upon many fascinating places, things, and peoples. The most prominent development, in my opinion, would be the development of civilizations. The first of these civilizations would be the Mesopotamians and the Egyptians. The civilizations had many similarities but they also had their differences. There are many aspects that are needed to define a "civilization". However, the most obvious foundation of all civilizations is their need of water sources. Both Mesopotamian and Egyptian civilizations existed on the banks of major rivers. Mesopotamia resided on the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers while Egypt resided on the Nile River. Although they share this characteristic, the difference lies in how each civilization viewed these rivers. In both places, they believed that the forces of nature reflected the decisions and actions of their deities.In Mesopotamia, they felt that their deities were not loving, care-taking beings. They felt that their gods were vengeful, jealous, and malicious. This view developed from the many natural obstacles they were burdened with.
It was due to the geographical barriers of the rivers and rough terrains that made it impossible to unite the many different settled communities under one rule. The Nile River was the total opposite of the rivers of Mesopotamia. These kings emerged mainly by their military status and role. Through their powers they created mechanisms such as military forces, laws, and taxations. Similarly, in Egypt, the control of wring mean control of knowledge and thus power. It is easy to see where they come to these conclusions. The Pharaoh controlled all political instruments of power and is also the authority in terms of religious beliefs. The development of the civilizations eventually brought upon the creations of a writing system. The Egyptians believed that Pharaoh was part man and part god. It was through this high status that many of the early Mesopotamian kings came into power. The Nile also provided a means of transportation and communications. In Egypt, their ruler was known as the Pharaoh. It was due to this diversity of settlements that led to violence and wars. In contrast, the Egyptians felt that their gods were loving and protective. The priests had an equal shared power with the king.
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