Hilary Misch Feb 23 2006 Mini Essay: Imhotep

Hilary Misch Feb 23 2006
Mini Essay: Imhotep

Imhotep is one the worlds most famous ancients, however, his name is not his true identity, it is what he accomplished that made him famous. He contributed in many positive ways towards ancient Egypt such as advancements in architecture, being

worshipped by all and advancements in medicine

Imhotep was also the first architect as he constructed The Step Pyramid. The Step Pyramid is located in Saqquara where the first pharaoh’s tomb is located. The Step Pyramid is approximately 200 feet in height and is made by limestone. Today, The Step

Pyramid is one of the most brilliant wonders of the world. “The pyramid suggests a gigantic stairway for the monarchs ascent to the sky, while the surrounding

building originally provided the temple for the royal cult, pavilions and shrines”1 . The entire setting is roughly 2000 feet long and 1000 feet in width. It is

enclosed by a massive stone wall. Other attributes include a colonnade wall, 40 foot tall columns and elegant courtyard with a number of shrines.
Imhotep was worshipped by all. Christians called him the “Prince of Peace”. Even kings and queens bowed at his throne. He was also known as the “God of

Medicine” and a “Type of Christ”. He was called the “God of Medicine” because he cured many citizens using his medicine from plants. A “Type of Christ”

referred to his use of magic and medicine similar to those used by Jesus Christ. Inscriptions praising Imhotep adorn the walls of Egyptian temples as the

emperors honoured him.

“Imhotep diagnosed and treated over 200 diseases, 15 diseases of the abdomen, 11 of the bladder, 10 of the rectum, 29 of the eyes, and 18 of the skin, hair,

nails and tongue”2 H extracted his medicine from plants, but many say he used magic to cure people. He also treated gout, arthritis, appendicitis, gallstones

and tuberculosis. Imhotep knew every vital organ, their function and how they connected to the blood stream. He founded the school of medicine in Memphis,

which actually remained famous for the next 2 thousands years. In addition, he also practiced dentistry.

While researching information on Imhotep, there were a few counter arguments found. Pharaohs such as Akhenaten and Alexander the Great also contributed to

ancient civilizations. Akhenaten was a renowned philosopher and thinker. Alexander was a great leader and visionary. These two men deserve honour as well

for their accomplishments. What makes Imhotep so different? Imhotep was the first doctor, he performed surgery, he cured many disease and he also built the

first pyramid. How many pharaohs did that? Another counter argument is that Imhotep was believed to be a great doctor however, historians have no idea what he

actually contributed to medicine. The Step Pyramid is a living proof of his architectural skill.

In conclusion, he did accomplish many things such as advancements in medicine, advancements in architecture, and he was worshipped by all. Furthermore, Imhotep’s legacy still continues as there was a university named after him called the ”Imhotep

Academy”. The academy introduces under-represented students such as (women and native Americans). It is from grades 6-8 where they teach chemistry, math, earth and atmospheric science, physics, and statistics. “In priestly wisdom, in magic, in the

formulation of wise proverbs; in medicine and architecture; this remarkable figure of Zosers reign left so notable a reputation that his name was never

forgotten.”3