The Vilification of the Hyksos: A Consideration of the Terminology

Abstract This paper investigates how the Hyksos’ notoriety was forged in seventeen ancient textual sources, considering the origins of the vilification of the Hyksos, the development of the vocabulary associated with these foreign rulers, and how the Thebans or Egyptians perceived themselves in direct contrast with the Hyksos. The study reveals that the negative terminology used in the textual sources to refer to the Hyksos is gradual and suggests that the growing hostility between Upper and Lower Egypt resulted in a shift in discourse to justify the conflict between the two kingdoms together with the establishment of a warrior ethos. Ultimately, this research highlights the pivotal role of the Theban (Egyptian) sources in shaping the legacy of the Hyksos that became a key “cultural memory” to articulate and affirm ancient Egyptian cultural identity in the New Kingdom.