ART101 Essay (b):
The written documents that come from ancient Crete are few and provide little information regarding the religion, politics, or lifestyle of the Minoan people. Our best window into this world is through the excavated art and architecture. For this activity, you will select evidence from the palace complex (and complex it is!) to search for clues about culture.
Begin by searching online sources to locate three examples of architectural detail, wall painting, pottery, or sculpture from Knossos. An exceptional site has been created by the British School at Athens Links to an external site.. This site provides fascinating 360-degree views of rooms. (Be aware that the initial excavator, Sir Arthur Evans, made some controversial restorations to the palace. Know that what you are seeing may not be all original.) A great website for art from Knossos is that of the Heraklion Museum in Crete Links to an external site.. Painted pottery, sculpture, and frescoes will be found here. Another option for learning about Knossos is this video available through the Excelsior Library:
In the essay, use three examples as evidence for some aspect(s) of Minoan culture. You may find your material evidence indicates commerce, seafaring, or perhaps a love of nature. Maybe your sampling speaks of religion, ceremony, or costume. Be sure to identify fully your examples and include plenty of specific description as you make a case for them as cultural evidence. Illustrations are helpful.
