Heinrich Schliemann

Definition

Heinrich Schliemann was a 19th-century German archaeologist and a pioneer of classical archaeology, best known for his discoveries at the ancient sites of Troy and Mycenae. His work laid the groundwork for modern archaeological methods and spurred interest in Greek and Roman civilizations, marking a significant moment in the historical context of archaeology.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Schliemann was a self-taught archaeologist who believed that Homer's epics were based on real historical events, leading him to seek out the locations described in the texts.
2. His excavation at Troy began in 1870, and he claimed to have found the ruins of the city mentioned in the Iliad, though his methods were often criticized for being overly aggressive and destructive.
3. At Mycenae, Schliemann discovered a series of shaft graves containing valuable artifacts, including gold masks, which he attributed to Agamemnon, further linking his findings to Greek mythology.
4. Schliemann's work sparked public interest in archaeology and ancient history, encouraging subsequent excavations and research into classical civilizations.
5. Despite his contributions, Schliemann's methods have been debated for their lack of scientific rigor, raising questions about the integrity of his findings and the preservation of archaeological sites.

Review Questions

• How did Heinrich Schliemann's belief in the historical accuracy of Homer's works influence his archaeological practices?
  • Heinrich Schliemann's strong belief that Homer's epics were based on real historical events drove him to search for tangible evidence of the Trojan War and other legendary tales. This conviction led him to excavate sites like Troy and Mycenae with great passion. However, his unyielding faith in these texts often overshadowed scientific methods, resulting in excavations that were sometimes hasty and destructive.
• Evaluate the impact of Schliemann's discoveries on the field of archaeology and our understanding of ancient Greek history.
  • Schliemann's discoveries significantly advanced the field of archaeology by revealing real locations tied to ancient narratives and stimulating public interest in classical antiquity. His findings at Troy and Mycenae not only illuminated aspects of Mycenaean civilization but also connected material culture with literary texts. While his methods faced criticism for lacking scientific rigor, they nevertheless inspired future archaeologists to adopt more systematic approaches in excavating historical sites.
• Synthesize how Schliemann's excavation techniques reflect both advancements and challenges within the discipline of archaeology during his time.
  • Schliemann's excavation techniques represent a complex mix of advancement and challenge within archaeology. On one hand, he is credited with bringing attention to significant sites like Troy and Mycenae, thereby laying a foundation for future explorations. However, his often-destructive methods raised ethical concerns about site preservation and scientific rigor. The tension between uncovering history versus preserving it continues to influence archaeological practices today, as scholars strive to balance discovery with conservation.

Related terms

Troy: An ancient city located in modern-day Turkey, believed to be the setting of the Trojan War, which Schliemann famously excavated.

Mycenaean Civilization: A late Bronze Age civilization that flourished in Greece, characterized by its impressive palatial structures and advanced culture, which Schliemann uncovered at Mycenae.

Stratigraphy: The study of rock layers and layering, an important archaeological method that helps establish the chronological sequence of a site's occupation.