243: Kingmakers & Criminals

Tausret, Siptah, Bay, and the case of Paneb. By 1210 BCE, the southern rebellion was dying down, but trouble was far from over. The courtier Bay appears on the scene, first as an agent of Sety II, then as a "kingmaker" in his own right. Tausret increases her power, becoming a regent figure (like Hatshepsut). The young ruler Siptah, physically enfeebled and of uncertain heritage, provides a veil of legitimacy for a new triumvirate.

Meanwhile, in Deir el-Medina, the foremen/chiefs Hay and Paneb deal with serious allegations... [WARNING: Starting at 23:01, episode contains content that may not be suitable for all listeners]

Logo image: Winged Ma'at in KV47, tomb of Siptah, by E. Harold Jones 1910 (MMA).

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