The Valley of the Kings is a famous burial site in ancient Egypt where pharaohs and powerful nobles were buried during the New Kingdom period. It was chosen for its remote location, protected environment, and religious significance.

Source A: Excerpt from an Egyptian priest's account

'The valley is a sacred place, hidden from the world, where the divine kings rest in eternal peace, protected by the gods and nature.' Provenance: Extract from a religious text carved into a temple wall, 18th Dynasty.

The importance of the Valley of the Kings can be analyzed through various factors: political control over burial sites, religious beliefs about the afterlife, social hierarchy, and economic resources dedicated to tomb construction.

Source B: A modern historian’s view

'The Valley’s significance was rooted in its religious symbolism and the political necessity to protect the tombs of Egypt’s most powerful.' Provenance: Extract from a history textbook, 20th century.

Students are asked to consider the relative importance of each factor and justify their ranking based on the evidence provided.

Source C: An archaeological report

'The tombs in the Valley of the Kings reflect a combination of religious symbolism and political security measures, indicating both factors were crucial.' Provenance: Archaeological journal, 21st century.