Minoan Civilization Overview

• Minoan Civilization: Flourished on the island of Crete from approximately 2700 to 1450 BCE.
• Palace of Knossos: A significant Minoan palace complex known for its advanced architecture, intricate frescoes, and elaborate layout. Features include wide courtyards, multiple stories, and interconnected rooms, suggesting a complex social organization.
• Minoan Art Characteristics: Known for its vibrant frescoes, depicting scenes of nature, marine life, and ritualistic activities. The style is characterized by a fluidity and grace, highlighting the Minoans' emphasis on natural forms and the human figure. Also notable are elaborate pottery designs. Sculptures were typically small and made of bronze or ivory.
• Minoan Writing: A system of hieroglyphic writing, known as Linear A, has been found on Minoan artifacts. Its decipherment remains incomplete, limiting our understanding of their societal structures and beliefs.
• Minoan Religion: Evidence suggests a strong connection with nature, with reverence for animals and possibly a mother goddess figure. Ritual practices at shrines and temples are implied through archeological evidence.
• Minoan Society: Based on evidence from the palaces, Minoan society might have been relatively peaceful and prosperous, involving sophisticated trade networks. The presence of skilled artisans suggests a developed production and craft culture. Evidence supports the idea of a centralized authority.
• Minoan Technology: Advanced for their time. Features include sophisticated plumbing systems, including drainage channels and water storage. Notable engineering skills appear in the construction of the palaces and related infrastructure.
• Decline of Minoan Civilization: The cause is uncertain, but theories include natural disasters, volcanic eruptions, or potential invasions from the Mycenaeans.
• Mycenaean Civilization: Emerged on the Greek mainland, gradually influencing and eventually perhaps overpowering the Minoans.
• Romanticism: A prevalent artistic movement in the 19th century. It emphasized emotion, individuality, and a connection to nature.
• The Roman Empire: A vast and influential civilization that encompassed much of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.
• Roman Art and Architecture Characteristics: Utilized realistic and idealized portrayals in sculptures, focused on practicality and grandeur in building construction.
• Roman Pantheon: An example of monumental Roman architecture. Its architectural design has impacted subsequent civilizations.
• Aqueducts: A crucial Roman engineering achievement. These structures efficiently provided water to cities, reflecting an advanced understanding of hydraulic engineering.
• Roman Roads: Network of roads across the empire. Facilitated communication, trade, and military movement.
• Colosseum: A magnificent amphitheater used for public spectacles and gladiatorial contests.
• Roman Sculptures: Often realistic depictions of individuals, emphasizing detailed rendering of anatomy and facial expressions. Portrayals of emperors and prominent figures were common.
• Roman Engineering: Characterized by advanced techniques for constructing roads, bridges, aqueducts, and other infrastructure. Use of concrete became a key feature.
• Roman Bathhouses: Examples of public spaces in Roman cities.
• Roman Law: A codified system of laws. Influential on later legal systems.
• Roman Literature: Produced significant literary works, including poetry, drama, and prose.

Exam Question Topics (Possible areas to focus on for exam)

• Comparing and Contrasting the Minoan and Roman Civilizations: Identify similarities and differences in their art, architecture, social structures, and technological developments.
• The Impact of Minoan Art and Architecture on Later Civilizations: Discuss the influence of Minoan art and architecture on subsequent cultures and artistic traditions.
• Minoan Society: Describe the social structures and organization of Minoan society based on available evidence.
• Analyze Minoan religious beliefs and practices: Discuss Minoan religious beliefs and practices based on archaeological findings
• Roman Contributions to Architecture & Urban Planning: Discuss the key contributions of the Romans to architecture and urban planning. Provide specific examples.
• Roman Engineering Innovations: How did advancements in Roman engineering like aqueducts and roads impact the empire?
• The Influence of Roman Art and Architecture on Western Civilization: Examine the lasting impact of Roman art and architecture on Western civilization and its traditions
• Minoan and Roman Political Systems: Discuss the forms of government and political organizations in both societies.

Suriin ang sibilisasyong Minoan na umunlad sa Crete mula 2700 hanggang 1450 BCE. Alamin ang tungkol sa kanilang mga palasyo, sining, pagsusulat, at relihiyon. Tuklasin ang kasaysayan at pagbabagong-anyo ng kanilang kultura sa mga tanawin at simbolo ng kanilang panahon.