Assessment Questions 10.8

1. How did Minoan civilization on Crete differ from the transplantation of an alien culture, according to archaeologist Colin Renfrew?

Minoan Crete is seen as an indigenous European development, benefiting from its location and the ideas and wealth passing through the island. Colin Renfrew argues that Minoan Crete reflects evolving complexity in the Aegean for 1,000 years, rather than being a transplant of an alien culture.

2. What evidence suggests a socially stratified society in Minoan Crete, and how did the population of Knossos compare to other ancient societies?

The monumental proportions and complexity of the palace at Knossos indicate a socially stratified society. However, there is little evidence of personal conspicuous consumption by high-ranking individuals. At its peak, Knossos and its surrounding areas may have had a population close to 100,000 people, making it the largest concentration in the ancient world at that time.

3. How did Minoan civilization recover from the catastrophic earthquake, and what is significant about the lack of evidence for personal conspicuous consumption?

The New Palace Period saw the recovery of Minoan civilization after the earthquake. The lack of evidence for personal conspicuous consumption in the form of ornate burials sets Minoan Crete apart from other ancient civilizations like Egypt, Mesopotamia, or China. The wealth was used for further development rather than extravagant burials.