Mycenaean Civilization & Military Culture Leah Lopes

Roots The first “Greeks,” due to their speaking of the Greek language Thrived from 1650-1200 BC Civilization inspired by the Minoans, from the island of Crete(sea-based trading) Minoan language differed from what we’d call Greek; Linear A syllabic script Minoans had influence on Greek art, architecture, and military characteristics

Military Pictorial depictions and grave findings show the use of heavy infantrymen similar to Classical Greek tactics “Shoulder to shoulder” formations while holding spears and large shields one-handed/two-handed Military logistics and production were supervised from palatial centers

Military(tactics) The “sword masters” and “skirmishers” were light infantry groups that assisted the heavy infantry They were used on uneven terrain and against mobile enemies Skirmishers- screened the main army with light armor and shields Sword masters- loose formations between the other two mentioned lines of men Sword masters were praised and referred to “promachoi,” meaning champions for skilled, flexible fighting

Military(tactics) Sturdy-built chariots were conducive to the rocky plains found on Mycenaean homelands Archers mounted atop, sometimes assisted Used as a psychological weapon-may not have been physically effective

Military(weaponry) Spears would reach up to 12ft in length at times Spearheads crafted from bronze, narrow and leaf-shaped Tower shield(rectangle) and figure eight shield

Military(weaponry cont.) Helmets were also used in melee fighting Made from boar tusks, stitched onto a leather framework Tusks were obtained from hunting Inspired by bronze age Minoans

Military Militaristic ethos of mycenaean culture led to ancient greek tradition, especially Homeric epics, focused on the heroic nature of the warrior elite Around the 13th century, advancements were made Circular shields, shorter spears of 5-6 ft Bronze or copper armor