Ancient History: Treasures and Trinkets: Finding the Gods of Greece by Jennifer Palmer, The University of Birmingham

This workshop aims to offer a view into the subject of Ancient History by introducing the students to the study of the Mycenaeans. This society lived in Greece in the Late Bronze Age, specifically from 1600 to 1200 BCE. The workshop will explore the birth of the study of this people at the end of the nineteenth century, when an early generation of archaeologists sought to find the truth of the myths of the Trojan War, as recorded in the epics of Homer. It will then turn to one of the most fascinating aspects of the Mycenaean culture, which is their religion. Many aspects of their religious practices are still a mystery to us, but, through examination of their religious art (iconography), the picture is becoming clearer. The most plentiful source of this iconography is that found engraved upon jewellery, including gold rings and stones that were worn on bracelets. These are the treasures and trinkets of my title. The workshop will then guide the students through an introduction to this medium as we attempt to find the gods of Greece.

Suitable for: Year 12

Preparation/Pre-reading: There is no pre-reading or preparation required for this session. Students may like to think of questions relevant to studying Ancient History at university or about university life which they will have the opportunity to ask during the session.