Research master thesis | Archaeology (research) (MA/MSc)
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This thesis examines the significance of the concept and representation of angels from the 5th until the 15th century in Egypt and the adjacent Nubian Kingdoms (Makuria, Nobadia and Alwa). This is...Show moreThis thesis examines the significance of the concept and representation of angels from the 5th until the 15th century in Egypt and the adjacent Nubian Kingdoms (Makuria, Nobadia and Alwa). This is done by examining the political and religious history of both areas, and looking at religious continuity and change. It operates from the idea that religion is not a static concept that exists in boxed-in entities, but a process in flux, in which past and present practises are always interacting. Within this interaction, in this case between traditional Egyptian and Nubian religion and Christianity (and Islam), we see that angels fulfil an important role. This role of angels is examined through looking at textual evidence (mainly magical texts), a small amount of archaeological finds, six case studies in which angelic imagery in (excavated) religious buildings is looked at. This concerns the sites Bawit, Saqqara and St. Antony in Egypt, and Dongola, Faras and Banganarti in the Nubian Kingdoms. At these sites, many depictions of angels can be found, each of which are rich in iconographic and stylistic data. Comparing the iconography of the various sites gives us insights in the similarities and differences between Egyptian and Nubian iconography and styles, which is in part informed by their respective political histories. One such difference is the difference in focus and size between the two areas: angels in Nubian buildings are much larger and more the centre of the scene than they are in Egypt, and seem to play a role in the legitimisation of Nubian Kingship. When compared with the available textual evidence, it becomes clear they are of great significance to the Nubian and Egyptian peoples, and display a number of similarities with earlier gods, symbols and practises. Iconographically too, there are similarities to be found between angels and ancient Egyptian gods, as well as traditional Roman art. In this way, the angels seem to be an important part of the ever changing religious landscape, and take up an important place in the lives of the Egyptian and Nubian people in the time period under consideration. They seem to have been part of a cult, which is evidenced both in personal piety through spells and texts, and more organised religion through for example the dedication to the archangel Raphael of the churches at Banganarti. Angels play an important role in both organised religion and more personal piety, and seem part of the transition between ‘pagan’ religions and Christianity.Show less
