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During the Classical period Greek artist began the contrapposto style for their sculptures. This style made the sculptures look more relaxed and realistic as seen in the Kritios boy and Lysippos’ Apoxymenos . The ideal human proportions that changed from the early classical period to the late classical period can also be seen in sculptures from both of these periods. In comparison to the Riace Warrior the Lysippos’ Apoxymenos is taller resulting in a longer and leaner body. This obsession with the perfect human form is still very much present in society today were every magazine and publication is so focused on body image. Kaitlyn made an excellent point about this in regards to super models.
Sir Arthur Evans named the Minoan culture after the King Mino, a mythical Cretan king who supposedly constructed the great labyrinth. This was later proved to be inaccurate and while Sir Arthur Evans’ restoration of the site of Knossos probably prevented it from becoming complete unrecognizable he took a lot of liberties. The restorations at Knossos especially in the throne room are wonderful to look at but give tourists a false representation on the culture.
Heinrich Schliemann believed that the Mycenae Citadel was the mythical home of the Greek king Agamemnon, who was responsible for starting the Trojan War. He believed that much of what Homer wrote was based in history. Homer associated Mycenae with gold and this drove him to want to find the city possibly out of greed. He ended up finding gold in grave circle A of the “Palace’. He often ascribed names from Homer with his discoveries. This could have just been a great way for him as a business man to generate interest and potentially more money in his finds.
In reply to sjsaccom I do believe that they both did this in order for them to profit from their discoveries more not because they believed that they were in any way accurate.
Minoan culture was on its own island which may play a part in why they did not seem to be in conflict as much. It could be possible that they were able to seem more carefree and peaceful because they were more isolated than the Mycenaens. This is shown in the Bull Leaping Fresco when it seems like an almost playful pastime.
Unlike Minoan centers, the Mycenaeans built on hilltops that were easily defended. They used the natural landscape to enhance their fortifications. This also allowed Myceneans to view enemies from a distance. Take for example the Lion Gate, this was the primary entrance to the citadel and it was constructed in a way that made those approaching the gate isolated and venerable.
Tamara I like your point about the use of bright colors and frescos in the Minoan cultures it was a great way to show the vast difference in the cultures.
