Mut and Her Inner Circle: A Study of the Interconnectedness of the New Kingdom Goddesses at Thebes

Abstract

The goddesses in the Hypostyle Hall in Karnak reflect specific patterns of iconographic meaning that are illuminated via the use of statistics.

The syncretization of the goddesses in the hall is quite evident using the data that is presented in this dissertation. The vulture headdress, papyrus staff and the Eye of Re motif among others are acting as signifiers that identify the various goddesses at Thebes as avatars of Mut.

By combining these elements, it clearly points to their shared affinity with Mut, and the harnessing of their collective power made their regenerative function and their roles in the continual renewal of the cyclical cosmos all the more commanding.

Based on the data, it can be stated that goddesses are more complicated and important to our understanding of Egyptian art and history than they have previously been given credit for. This study is aimed to give insight to an avenue of Egyptology that has been overshadowed by the traditional patriarchal approaches of the past.

Three different kings adorned the Hypostyle Hall, and they all did so for different reasons. Whether it was for grandiosity or legitimization, the decoration in the hall reflected the needs of their rulers during their respective reigns.