Ep 2. Curse of the Crocodile Queen

In this episode of Egypt's Unexplained Files, titled "Curse of the Crocodile Queen," viewers journey to the ancient city of Thebes, the political and religious capital of Egypt during the New Kingdom period. The episode explores the mysterious death of Queen Hatshepsut, the first female pharaoh of Egypt who reigned for more than 20 years. The official account of her demise suggests that she died of natural causes, but recent investigations into her corpse suggest that she may have died under more mysterious circumstances.

The episode opens with a captivating reconstruction of life in ancient Thebes. The viewer is introduced to Queen Hatshepsut and the remarkable legacy she left for Egypt. She was a wise and just ruler, who commissioned grand building projects such as the temple of Deir el-Bahri, which continues to amaze visitors today.

However, Queen Hatshepsut's reign was not without controversy. She faced opposition from within her own family and court, and not everyone was happy with a woman on the throne of Egypt. Her legacy was also marred by the mysterious circumstances surrounding her death.

The episode delves into the many theories surrounding Queen Hatshepsut's death, including the possibility of foul play. The narrative explores the hypothesis that her step-son and successor, Thutmose III, may have orchestrated her death to gain the throne. There is also speculation that a popular Egyptian goddess, the Crocodile Queen, may have been responsible for Hatsepsut's demise.

Throughout the episode, experts share their theories and present evidence to support their claims. There is discussion around the different methods of embalming during the New Kingdom period and the possibility of drugs being used to hasten Queen Hatshepsut's death. The viewer is also taken on a tour of the royal tombs in the Valley of the Kings, where Hatshepsut's own burial site may hold clues to her mysterious passing.

One of the more intriguing aspects of the episode is the focus on the crocodile cult that existed in ancient Egypt. The crocodile was considered to be a powerful and sacred animal and the cult of the Crocodile Queen, Sobekneferu, was widespread throughout the land. The narrative explores the possibility that the cult may have played a role in Hatshepsut's death and shows how archaeologists are trying to piece together the mystery of the cult, its practices, and its potential involvement in the tragedy.

The episode concludes with no clear answers to the mystery of Queen Hatshepsut's death but leaves the viewer with a sense of the complexities and intrigue of ancient Egypt. The narrative also highlights the importance of ongoing research and investigation into the history of this remarkable civilization. Egypt's Unexplained Files: Curse of the Crocodile Queen provides an insightful and compelling look into one of the most enigmatic figures of ancient Egypt.