Interpretations of the Benin Bronzes
About This Worksheet
This worksheet explores different historical interpretations of the Benin Bronzes, encouraging students to compare perspectives and evaluate their validity.
Worksheet Preview
Full preview • 8 questions
Interpretations of the Benin Bronzes
Untitled Worksheet
Understanding Historical Interpretations of the Benin Bronzes
Historian A: Professor John Smith – Economic Perspective "Professor Smith argues that the Benin Bronzes were primarily a symbol of wealth and trade for the Kingdom of Benin. He emphasizes their role in establishing economic power and status, suggesting that the bronzes were used to attract trade and demonstrate the kingdom's prosperity. According to Smith, these artifacts reflect Benin's economic strength and mastery in metallurgy, which contributed significantly to its regional influence. His view interprets the Bronzes as products of a thriving economy, integral to Benin's international relations and wealth."
Historian B: Dr. Lisa Adams – Social and Cultural Perspective "Dr. Adams contends that the Benin Bronzes are primarily cultural artifacts reflecting the social hierarchy and religious beliefs of Benin society. She highlights their role in rituals, ceremonies, and as symbols of divine authority. Adams emphasizes that the bronzes depict ancestors, kings, and mythological themes, serving as a record of social order and spiritual life. Her interpretation sees the Bronzes as expressions of cultural identity and social cohesion, rather than merely symbols of wealth or trade."
Questions
Quick Actions
What is Remix?
Create a new worksheet based on this one. Change the grade level, topic, number of questions, or difficulty - then generate a fresh version.
- • Change grade level (Grade 6 → Grade 7)
- • Swap topics (Harry Potter → Macbeth)
- • Add more questions (10 → 15)
- • Adjust difficulty
Details
- Created
- 1/1/2026
- Updated
- 1/1/2026
- Type
- worksheet