Moses and Akhenaten by Sharon Janet Hague takes on the ambitious theory that the biblical Moses and the Egyptian Pharaoh Akhenaten were the same person. The book weaves historical analysis and imaginative storytelling, proposing that the famous biblical exodus and Akhenaten’s religious revolution are intertwined stories of the same man. Through a blend of fictional dialogue, historical narrative, and philosophical musings, Hague presents a compelling story for this theory.

The book is a unique mix of informal conversation and deep historical exploration. At times, it feels like sitting in on a heated debate among scholars as characters such as Walter, Tom, and Ernest discuss the possible connections between Moses and Akhenaten. For instance, Tom’s logical statement, “If Theodore Davis’ discovery in cache number fifty-five was Akhenaten’s body, then Akhenaten cannot be Moses,” drives home the tension between hard evidence and speculative theory. This dynamic made the book engaging and made me feel like I was part of an intellectual journey, though I feel that sometimes the debates veered into detailed and repetitive territory.

One of the things I loved about the book was its willingness to tackle big ideas with an unapologetic mix of history and conjecture. The idea that Akhenaten’s monotheism predates and even influences the Jewish faith is thought-provoking, and Hague doesn’t shy away from pushing that theory. She writes, “Nobody can convince me that billions of people worshipping one god, thirty-one centuries later is anything but a success”, showcasing Akhenaten’s monumental impact, whether or not he was Moses. While the story borders on speculative fiction, Hague’s presentation of Akhenaten as a revolutionary and somewhat tragic figure is heartfelt, bringing life to what could otherwise have been a dry historical argument. At one point, Akhenaten himself complains about modern perceptions of him: “I can’t tell you how heartily sick I am of being labeled everything from a weak king to a Nazi.” Moments like this add a humorous, almost anachronistic flavor that, while entertaining, sometimes undermines the gravitas of the subject. Still, the book’s casual conversations helped break down the dense historical material, making it more digestible and approachable for readers less familiar with ancient Egypt’s intricacies.

Moses and Akhenaten is a fascinating blend of historical theory and speculative storytelling. It’s ideal for readers who enjoy mixing history with a splash of imaginative fiction. If you’re a fan of ancient history, religious studies, or philosophical debates on the origins of faith, this book will keep you thinking long after you’ve finished it.

Pages: 301 | ASIN : B0BQCT1G1Q

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/09/18/moses-and-akhenaten-a-childs-tale/