Ancient Greek History: Mycenaean Collapse, Dark Ages, and Homeric Epics

Vocabulary flashcards covering the end of the Mycenaean civilization, the features of the Greek Dark Ages (1100–750 BC), and the composition of Homer's epics (c. 780 BC).

Epics of Homer

Poetic works composed c. 780 BC (including the Odyssey) based on oral bardic traditions with lyre accompaniment, representing the Bronze Age (ca. 1200 BC) using a mix of fantasy and historical elements.

Decline of Mycenaean Civilization

The period between 1200 BC and 1100 BC characterized by widespread destructions, internal strife and civil war, climate impacts, and overall system collapse.

Sea Peoples

A group mentioned in Egyptian records around the time of the collapse of the Hittite empire and the decline of Mycenaean civilization (c. 1200 BC).

Greek Dark Ages

The period from c. 1100 BC to 750 BC following the fall of Mycenaean civilization, defined by the loss of writing, loss of centralized control, simple pottery shapes, and an absence of monumental art.

System Collapse

A primary factor in the downfall of Mycenaean civilization from 1200 BC to 1100 BC, acting in conjunction with climate issues, destructions, and internal civil war.

Oral Bardic Tradition

The musical performance tradition accompanied by the lyre that served as the basis for the Homeric epics prior to their composition in c. 780 BC.