Early Dynastic Egypt

Early Dynastic administration was perhaps rather loosely organised, lacking precise de‍

both ideologically and politically.

In summary, Merka’s titles reflect a society and an administrative system in which the king was at the pinnacle,

which he exercised nominal authority.

it seems somewhat unlikely that an official based at the capital would have had much direct contact with the desert regions over

status came from proximity to the king rather than from occupying particular positions within the apparatus of government.

The association between the goddess Neith and the royal family is well attested in the First Dynasty

and provides yet another indication that Merka was a close member of the king’s immediate circle.

complete with its own funerary chapel—from an ancient religious function strongly
associated with the cult of divine kingship.

In other words, despite occupying a number of administrative offices and positions connected with the royal household (detailed below), Merka gained his exceptional status—reflected in the size and sophistication of his tomb, com‍