Analyzing Minoan Identity
Advisor Information
Jeanne Reames
Location
Dr. C.C. and Mabel L. Criss Library
Presentation Type
Poster
Start Date
6-3-2015 11:00 AM
End Date
6-3-2015 12:30 PM
Abstract
The Minoans are a misunderstood and understudied civilization. The timeframe is murky and scholars are still trying to theorize the cause of their collapse. Between the Early and Late Bronze Age there was an enormous amount of communication but that alone is not enough to establish an accurate portrayal of what took place because there needs to be more tangible evidence like artwork, cylinder seals, and pottery. I intend to undertake appropriate further research to investigate better angles on this topic. In order to determine whether new approaches are viable, it is necessary to first establish a methodology. In my initial research I have focused on cylinder seals, ring impressions and artwork in particular to analyze hybridity of civilizations within the Bronze Age. During these initial enquiries, I noticed that culture was a trade in itself. After the eruption of Thera, the changes became more apparent on Crete. The gods were becoming male instead of female, religious icons being desecrated, and Mycenaean take over leading to possible Minoan migration. Despite the changes in the Eastern Mediterranean the Minoan race held strong. However, the post-Mycenaean Minoans remain unacknowledged in text. The Minoan people were intelligent and greatly influenced the Aegean. My research was conducted to understand the Minoan people and attempt to pursue more factors of their identity. This research not only gave me insight into these people but also into issues that face scholars conducting relevant studies.
Analyzing Minoan Identity
Dr. C.C. and Mabel L. Criss Library
The Minoans are a misunderstood and understudied civilization. The timeframe is murky and scholars are still trying to theorize the cause of their collapse. Between the Early and Late Bronze Age there was an enormous amount of communication but that alone is not enough to establish an accurate portrayal of what took place because there needs to be more tangible evidence like artwork, cylinder seals, and pottery. I intend to undertake appropriate further research to investigate better angles on this topic. In order to determine whether new approaches are viable, it is necessary to first establish a methodology. In my initial research I have focused on cylinder seals, ring impressions and artwork in particular to analyze hybridity of civilizations within the Bronze Age. During these initial enquiries, I noticed that culture was a trade in itself. After the eruption of Thera, the changes became more apparent on Crete. The gods were becoming male instead of female, religious icons being desecrated, and Mycenaean take over leading to possible Minoan migration. Despite the changes in the Eastern Mediterranean the Minoan race held strong. However, the post-Mycenaean Minoans remain unacknowledged in text. The Minoan people were intelligent and greatly influenced the Aegean. My research was conducted to understand the Minoan people and attempt to pursue more factors of their identity. This research not only gave me insight into these people but also into issues that face scholars conducting relevant studies.