Unit 2: Objectives

Question 1

What characterized the Minoan civilization?

Answer 1

The Minoans (c. 2000–1450 BCE) were a peaceful, seafaring civilization on Crete, known for palace complexes (like Knossos), vibrant art, and the undeciphered Linear A script.

Question 2

What characterized the Mycenaean civilization?

Answer 2

The Mycenaeans (c. 1600–1100 BCE) were warlike, built fortified citadels, used Linear B (early Greek), and collapsed around 1100 BCE.

Question 3

What happened during the Greek ‘Dark Ages’?

Answer 3

After the Mycenaean collapse (c. 1100–750 BCE), Greek society declined—writing disappeared, trade decreased, population shrank, and small, isolated communities formed. Oral tradition preserved myths and history.

Question 4

What difficulties are involved in studying the Greek ‘Dark Ages’?

Answer 4

Few written records exist since Linear B was lost. Archaeological evidence is limited, making it hard to reconstruct political and social structures. Much knowledge comes from later sources like Homer.

Question 5

What is meant by the Greek ‘renaissance’?

Answer 5

The Greek ‘renaissance’ (c. 800–700 BCE) was a cultural revival marked by population growth, trade expansion, the adoption of the Phoenician alphabet, and the emergence of city-states (poleis).

Question 6

What is meant by ‘Homeric society’?

Answer 6

A society reflected in The Iliad and The Odyssey, characterized by warrior aristocracy, personal honor, gift-giving, and a heroic code where status was based on bravery and lineage.