Recording-2025-02-04T19:33:11.371Z

Overview of Minoan Scripts

• Evans excavated three different scripts, focusing on two: Pictographic (Hieroglyphics) and Linear A.

Minoan Scripts

• Linear B: Found alongside other scripts, indicates the connection to the palatial period.

• Pictographic or Hieroglyphics:

  • Characterized by pictorial signs.

  • Primarily short text, with no current understanding of meaning.

Characteristics of the Pictographic Script

• Signs represent names or concepts visually.

• Contemporary with the development of Linear A.

• Appeared primarily in palatial contexts.

Linear A Script

• Used during the period of prosperity in Crete.

• Characterized by a combination of syllabic characters and ideograms.

  • Syllables: Individual sounds or syllables.

  • Ideograms: Represent concepts or items directly.

• Found at multiple sites and various forms, from large pottery to small tablets.

• Scribes typically used clay tablets to document information which can be erased and reused, preserving some of the writing accidently.

Function of Linear A

• Likely served as accounting for goods and trades, inferred from comparison with Linear B.

• Lack of understanding of the language hampers direct interpretation.

Unique Script: Pythosus

• Pythosus Artifact: Found in a debated context; contains unique stamp signs with groups of 2 to 7.

  • Composed of 31 groups total, no direct parallels found.

Importance of the Pythosus

• Reflects the wealth and craftsmanship of Minoan society.

• Distinctive from common written forms, potentially used for ceremonies.

Pottery: Marine Style and Rhytons

• Marine Style Pottery: Identified by decorative patterns of marine life using glossy paint.

  • Example found in complete form, illustrates creativity and craftsmanship.

• Stone Vessels: Requires specialized skills for production.

  • Made from various materials, illustrating technological advancement in pottery-making.

Rhyton Vessels

• Used in rituals, often to make libations (offerings to deities).

  • The Boxer Rhyton features multiple scenes of sports and rituals surrounding athleticism.

  • The Harvester Rhyton depicts farmers in a lively procession, likely connected to agricultural rituals.

Minoan Town Planning

• Well-laid out settlements representing an advanced urban network.

• Central street divide into blocks with public parks indicating social spaces.

• Feasting deposits found containing evidence of community gatherings (cups, ritual objects).

Feasting Deposits

• Reveal details of rituals, indicating social structures and cultural practices.

• Finds include remnants of meals and drinking vessels, signifying organized communal activities.

Archaeological Discoveries

• The Knossos Site: Featured complex residential architectures; typically two stories high.

• Presence of kilns suggests extensive production facilities for pottery.

• Caves: Used for rituals with a connection to underworld beliefs.

Peak Sanctuaries

• Locations atop hills from the proto-palatial period to neopalatial era.

• Characterized by ash layers indicating religious activity and offerings.

• Significance lies in their connection to cult practices of the Minoan civilization.