1. Mycenaean Civilization & Military Culture
Leah Lopes

2. Roots The first “Greeks,” due to their speaking of the Greek language
Thrived from 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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

8. 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