Publisher： Cambridge University Press
E-ISSN： 1745-1744|13|52|425-439
ISSN： 0003-598x
Source： Antiquity, Vol.13, Iss.52, 1939-12, pp. : 425-439
Disclaimer: Any content in publications that violate the sovereignty, the constitution or regulations of the PRC is not accepted or approved by CNPIEC.
Abstract
In the long history of Minoan civilization two great catastrophes are discernible, of which the famous Cretan palaces themselves provide the chief source of our knowledge. Everywhere the catastrophes are seen to be contemporaneous. We can distinguish a period of the first palaces (MM) and a subsequent period of the second palaces (LM). There is no perceptible break in the development of the civilization as a result of these catastrophes. For this reason, the theories that the palaces were overthrown by invaders from abroad aroused opposition from the first. Usually the Achaeans—and even the Hyksos—were suggested as the destroyers. By this theory, however, it was not possible to explain two facts : the decorative arts continue on their way undisturbed, and the second palaces are built at once on the ruins of the first and are still unfortified. The Cretans would not have been so foolish as gratuitously to provide easy loot for fresh invaders.
Related content
Fuel for thought? Beeswax in lamps and conical cups from Late Minoan Crete
Antiquity, Vol. 71, Iss. 274, 1997-12 ,pp. :
Access to resources
Recommend
The Minoan eruption of the Santorini volcano
Antiquity, Vol. 48, Iss. 190, 1974-06 ,pp. :
Antiquity, Vol. 28, Iss. 111, 1954-09 ,pp. :
Akkadian Tablets in Minoan Dress
Antiquity, Vol. 31, Iss. 124, 1957-12 ,pp. :
Antiquity, Vol. 22, Iss. 86, 1948-06 ,pp. :