This video combines history, art, architecture and engineering.
Watch it carefully and answer the following questions in paragraph
or essay form.
use the web site NOVA
Online | Mysteries of the Nile to help you.
General and Background Information
What is an Obelisk? Why were they built? How were they used? In what time period were they built and by whom?
Science and Archeology
How were the obelisks of ancient times built? Out of what types of rock? How do the scientists test their theories of Obelisk building? Would you have liked to have been an obelisk carver?
What types of tools were available to the ancient peoples? What do the modern builders use to speed up the process? What are some of the problems that they encounter when carving a new obelisk for their project?
Once they have secured an obelisk how do they transport it? Again, how do the scientists test their theories?
Try to raise the obelisk yourself hereNOVA Online | Mysteries of the Nile | Lever an Obelisk
Engineering
With very little evidence left the scientist have to decide how to erect the new obelisk. What are some of the ideas they have? What are some of the problems they encounter?
Social Dynamics
Observe the people on the obelisk lifting team. What do see? Does everyone get along? What is the leadership style used to get the men to work together? Do people of different cultures have different styles? How do you imagine the ancient workers were treated, the same or different?
to Nova web siteNOVA Online | Mysteries of the Nile | Raising the Obelisk