The Early Greeks Greece in the Bronze Age

Minoan Civilization: b.c.e 1.Modern Island of Crete 2.Civilization 1.Palace complexes 1.Great affluence 2.Lack of defense 1.Matriarchal? 2.Sea provided all the defenses need? 2.Economy-Polyculture 1.Specialized occupations 2.Redistribution of wealth

Minoan Con’t 1.Writing 1.Hieroglyphic 2.Linear A 3.Linear B 1.One used the most 2.Invasion by Mycenaeans 1.Between b.c.e.

Minoan Art

Mycenaean Civilization: b.c.e. 1.Warlike Society 1.Art, weapons, architecture 2.Stratified Society 1.Kings (wanax) lived within walled palaces 1.Pirating a plundering 3.Tholos 1.Large beehive tombs 2.Very complex and shows wealth and power of wanax

Mycenaean Culture

Mycenaean and Minoan Downfall? 1.Volcanic explosion on Thera? 2.Dorian Invasions 1.Invaders from the north 2.Alliance with Southern Greek tribes 3.Gradual disintegration 1.Internal fighting and weakness of kings

“ Dark Ages”: Greek Middle Ages: b.c.e. Homer –Much of the history comes from his writing The Trojan War and after –Iliad and Odyssey Evidence shows that additions were made over the years –Government Figure head kings? –Had to consult nobles before decisions are made Soldiers voice

The Trojan War

Homeric Society Stratified classes –Nobles and wealth determined by birth –Thetes Worked hereditiy passed down plots of land Landless labors –Bottom of the totem pole because they lacked security Slaves –Yes slaves, but had security –Women-wet nurses and concubines –Men- shepards Minoan Civilization: b.c.e.

Homeric Values Arete –Manliness, Honor, courage –Great honor came with protecting ones honor, the honor of their families, and protecting their homes Women –Penelope (Odysseus’ wife) Perfect woman? –Women did participate in conversations, but mostly regulated to the home