Concluding Thoughts

The two Amarna letters EA 35 and 38 present a fascinating insight into the micro-dynamics between the powerful Great King of the Egyptian Pharaoh Akhenaten and the less established King of Alashiya. EA 35 demonstrates the aspirations of the King of Alashiya for power, leveraging his control over the primary supply of copper for the region to declare himself a “brother” of the Pharaoh. His correspondence demonstrates and understanding of the customs of the Kings that suggests he was accepted for the copper he could provide, despite no fitting the traditional, territorial requirement.

However, interestingly, as a result of this qualification, the letters also demonstrate the King of Alashiya’s insecurities about his status as a Great King. The King gingerly breaks the news of the spread of disease through the country to the King of Egypt, going to great lengths to stress how he can still supply copper and his brotherly relationship with the Pharaoh. This harkening back to family is utilized again in EA 38, where the King of Alashiya takes the Pharaoh up on accusations of collaboration with a marauding force disturbing Egpyt, but still remains respectful to the Pharaoh, not wishing to call into question his legitimacy as a Great Kings.

Therefore despite being a supposed mutuality of respect the Great Kings, the letters from the King of Alashiya demonstrate a disparity between certain Kings, depending on their perceived level of legitimacy as a Great King. What is clear is that whether the King of Alashiya was born great, himself achieved greatness, or had it thrust upon him, he was intent on retaining his seat at the table of Near Eastern high power.