"Sphinx" is mainly associated with which of the following ancient civilisations famous for pyramids and pharaoh rulers?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Egyptian civilisation

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This question checks your basic awareness of ancient world civilisations and their iconic monuments. The Sphinx, with its characteristic lion body and human head, is one of the most recognisable structures linked with a particular ancient civilisation, alongside pyramids and tombs of the pharaohs.


Given Data / Assumptions:
• The term Sphinx here refers primarily to the Great Sphinx of Giza. • This monument stands near the pyramids on the Giza plateau. • The options list several broad civilisations: Egyptian, Arab, Chinese, Roman and Greek. • We must match the Sphinx with its correct cultural and geographical setting.


Concept / Approach:
The Great Sphinx of Giza is one of the largest and oldest monumental statues in the world. It is carved out of limestone and located on the west bank of the Nile in Egypt, near the famous pyramids. It is closely associated with the religion, art and royal symbolism of ancient Egypt. While the concept of sphinx like creatures also appears in Greek mythology, the capital Sphinx in exam questions usually points to the Egyptian monument at Giza.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Visualise the Sphinx as a huge stone statue near the pyramids on the Giza plateau. Step 2: Remember that the pyramids and pharaoh tombs belong to ancient Egyptian civilisation. Step 3: Connect the Sphinx with the same Nile valley civilisation. Step 4: Compare this picture with the answer choices given. Step 5: Select Egyptian civilisation as the correct option.


Verification / Alternative check:
Tourism guides, history textbooks and documentary films always show the Sphinx and pyramids together in Egypt. The monument lies within the wider archaeological site of Giza, a key symbol of ancient Egypt. Although the word sphinx is used in Greek myths, the monumental statue most commonly referred to as the Sphinx is undeniably Egyptian, confirming that Egyptian civilisation is the right answer.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Arab civilisation: This term usually refers to later Islamic and Arab cultures, not to the pharaonic age of ancient Egypt. Chinese civilisation: Known for the Great Wall and terracotta army, not for the Sphinx or pyramids. Roman civilisation: Famous for the Colosseum and aqueducts, not for the Sphinx. Greek civilisation: Greek myths include sphinx like creatures, but the question focuses on the physical monument at Giza, which is Egyptian.


Common Pitfalls:
A possible confusion arises because Greek mythology also has a character called the sphinx. To avoid this confusion, associate the large stone monument simply called the Sphinx with the Giza pyramids and therefore with ancient Egypt. Remembering this visual link is enough to answer similar questions quickly and accurately.


Final Answer:
The Sphinx is mainly associated with the Egyptian civilisation.

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