The Aegean Civilisation, which flourished in the Bronze Age, is known for its rich cultural and artistic heritage. The pronunciation of the word "Aegean" is [eɪˈdʒiːən], with the first two letters being pronounced together as the diphthong "ae" (sounds like "ay"). The stress falls on the first syllable, "Ae," and the "g" is pronounced like a "j." The word "civilisation" is spelled with a "z" in British English and an "s" in American English, but has the same pronunciation: [sɪvəlaɪˈzeɪʃən].
Aegean Civilisation refers to the ancient cultures and societies that developed in the Aegean region during the Bronze Age, roughly between 3000 BCE and 1100 BCE. It encompasses a wide range of civilizations, including the Minoans on the island of Crete, and the Mycenaeans on the Greek mainland and adjacent islands.
The Minoan civilisation, located primarily on the island of Crete, was one of the earliest advanced societies in Europe. They were known for their advanced architecture, vibrant art, and sophisticated trade networks. The Minoans were skilled sailors and engaged in extensive overseas trade, which contributed to their economic prosperity.
The Mycenaean civilisation emerged later on the Greek mainland and is best known for its powerful warrior kings and their fortified palaces. They are often associated with the Trojan War as depicted in Homer's Iliad. The Mycenaeans had a highly militaristic society and were skilled in bronze metallurgy. They also maintained trade connections with other cultures in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Both the Minoan and Mycenaean civilisations had a significant impact on later Greek culture. Their art, architecture, and writing systems influenced subsequent Greek artistic and literary traditions. Their decline is believed to have been caused by natural disasters, foreign invasions, and internal instability.
Overall, Aegean Civilisation refers to the collective term for the Minoan and Mycenaean cultures that flourished in the Aegean region during the Bronze Age, possessing distinct characteristics and leaving a lasting legacy on the subsequent civilizations in the region.
The term "Aegean Civilization" refers to the ancient civilizations that flourished in the region of the Aegean Sea, including the Minoans on the island of Crete and the Mycenaeans on the mainland of Greece.
The word "Aegean" itself is derived from the name of the sea it represents. "Aegean" comes from the ancient Greek "Aiges Potamoi", which translates to "River of Aiges". Aiges was a mythical Greek hero, son of Zeus, who was said to have drowned in the sea. Over time, "Aiges Potamoi" evolved into "Aegeus Sea" and eventually became the "Aegean Sea".
The term "Civilization" comes from the Latin word "civilis", which means "citizen" or "relating to citizens".