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What characterized the Greek Dark Ages?
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A loss of writing and cultural decline, with increased isolation from the Mediterranean from 1100 to 750 B.C.
Why are historical dates and events from early Greek history often controversial?
Because they are approximations based on limited archaeological evidence rather than written records.
What are possible reasons for the decline of the Mycenaean civilization around 1200 B.C.?
Invasions, internal uprisings, environmental factors, or the 'sea peoples' or Dorian invasions.
Who discovered the Minoan civilization and when?
Sir Arthur Evans in the early 20th century.
Why is Mycenae significant in ancient Greek history?
It's the namesake of the Mycenaean civilization, with links to the legendary King Agamemnon.
What distinctive features define the Mycenaean civilization?
Fortified hilltop cities, use of Linear B, and trade relations with Egypt and other regions.
What impact did the fall of the Mycenaean civilization have on Greek history?
It created a discontinuity in Greek history, leading to the Greek Dark Ages.
What role did oral traditions and poetry play in the Greek Dark Ages?
They helped preserve memories of the Mycenaean civilization.
What marks the beginning of the Bronze Age in the Aegean area?
The emergence of civilization with cities as cultural centers around 3000 B.C., specifically on Crete.
What is Linear B and why is it important?
A script used by the Mycenaeans that provides evidence of Greek language and culture.
How do we know that the Minoans were not Greeks?
The Greek language and cultural characteristics were introduced by Greek-speaking peoples who settled around 2000 B.C.
In what ways did the emergence from the Greek Dark Ages set the stage for later Greek culture?
By incorporating innovation and adaptation into a new Greek society.
How did the Mycenaean civilization sustain their economy?
Through trade, particularly of aromatic oils, and agriculture.
What sets apart the Minoans from the later Greek identity?
Minoans are not identified as Greek due to the absence of Greek language and culture traits in their records.
What is a significant characteristic of the Minoan civilization's urban centers?
They resemble ancient Near Eastern civilizations.
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