Lecture Notes: Discovery and Significance of Grave Circle A

Introduction

• Heinrich Schliemann's Discoveries
  • Known for finding the Lost City of Troy.
  • Sought the city of Agamemnon and Achilles following Troy discovery.

Grave Circle A

• Location: Believed to be the burial site of royalty.
• Findings:
  • Golden artifacts indicating possible royal burials.
    • Golden Mask (allegedly of Agamemnon).
    • Golden swords, cups, and other artifacts.
    • Skeletons discovered alongside these artifacts.
• Interpretation of Golden Artifacts:
  • Indicative of wealth and possible royalty, not poverty.
  • Schliemann believed the mask belonged to Agamemnon but this is debated.

Historical Context

• The Mycenaeans: Believed to be the civilization associated with these graves.
  • Notable figures possibly linked: Achilles, Odysseus.
  • King Minos is also mentioned related to this era.
• Role of Homer:
  • The tales of the Greek warriors, as told by Homer, are believed by some to be set in this region.
  • Historic connections drawn between Homer’s stories and the Mycenaean civilization.

Current Location of Artifacts

• Golden Mask of Agamemnon:
  • Now displayed in a museum in Athens.

Conclusion

• The site offers insights into Mycenaean civilization.
• Debates continue over historical accuracy of Schliemann’s claims.