Linear B

Definition

Linear B is an ancient script used for writing Mycenaean Greek, the earliest known form of the Greek language, primarily during the late Bronze Age. It was utilized in administrative and economic contexts, reflecting the complexities of trade, record-keeping, and social organization in Aegean cultures.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Linear B was deciphered by Michael Ventris in 1952, revealing it as a syllabic script used to record the early Greek language.
2. The tablets inscribed with Linear B primarily document economic transactions, inventories, and agricultural data, showcasing the administrative functions of Mycenaean palaces.
3. Linear B is thought to have been derived from the earlier Minoan script known as Linear A, indicating cultural exchanges between the Minoans and Mycenaeans.
4. The use of Linear B ended around 1200 BCE with the collapse of the Mycenaean civilization, leading to a period known as the Greek Dark Ages.
5. The discovery of Linear B tablets at sites like Pylos and Knossos has significantly enhanced our understanding of Mycenaean political structure and trade networks.

Review Questions

• How did Linear B contribute to our understanding of Mycenaean economic practices and administrative structures?
  • Linear B provides critical insight into Mycenaean economic practices by documenting various transactions and inventory lists found on clay tablets. These records reveal a complex administrative system centered around palace economies that organized labor, managed resources, and facilitated trade. The script illustrates how the Mycenaeans kept track of goods and resources, emphasizing their sophisticated approach to governance and economic management.
• In what ways does the deciphering of Linear B impact our knowledge of interconnections between Minoan and Mycenaean civilizations?
  • Deciphering Linear B has highlighted the cultural influences between Minoan and Mycenaean civilizations. The similarities between Linear A and Linear B suggest that the Mycenaeans adopted elements from Minoan writing systems. Additionally, artifacts found in archaeological sites reveal trade routes and interactions between these cultures, demonstrating how they influenced each other in terms of administration, trade practices, and artistic expressions.
• Evaluate the significance of Linear B in the broader context of Aegean art and culture during the late Bronze Age.
  • Linear B holds substantial significance in understanding Aegean art and culture as it reflects a sophisticated society engaged in extensive trade networks and complex administrative practices. The content of the tablets provides insights into artistic commissions and resource allocations for construction projects like palaces, influencing architectural styles seen in Aegean art. Furthermore, by examining how Linear B documents interact with other forms of artistic expression from this period, one can assess how written language shaped cultural identity and societal organization within the broader Mediterranean context.

Related terms

Mycenaean Civilization: A major center of Greek civilization from around 1600 to 1100 BCE, known for its palatial states, written records, and advanced art and architecture.

Pylos: An important archaeological site in Greece where a significant number of Linear B tablets were discovered, providing insight into Mycenaean society.

Knossos:

A significant archaeological site on Crete that was the center of Minoan civilization and influenced Mycenaean culture, with connections to Linear A, a related script.