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Unveiling the Early Neolithic in Greece: A Journey into the Dawn of Civilization

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The Early Neolithic in Greece: The First Farming Communities in Europe (Cambridge World Archaeology)

by Catherine Perlès

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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The Early Neolithic period in Greece, spanning from approximately 7000 to 5800 BCE, marked a transformative era in human history. It witnessed the transition from a hunting-gathering lifestyle to an agricultural one, the emergence of settled communities, and the development of various technologies. This article will take you on a comprehensive journey through this fascinating chapter, exploring the archaeological discoveries, cultural practices, and environmental changes that shaped the Early Neolithic in Greece.

The Neolithic Revolution

The Neolithic Revolution, a pivotal moment in human development, occurred during the Early Neolithic period. This transition from a nomadic existence to a sedentary agricultural lifestyle was characterized by the adoption of domesticated plants and animals. Archaeological evidence from Greece suggests that the earliest farmers cultivated wheat, barley, lentils, and peas, while raising sheep, goats, and cattle. This shift in food production had profound implications, allowing for the establishment of permanent settlements and the growth of populations.

Archaeological Discoveries

Numerous archaeological sites in Greece provide valuable insights into the Early Neolithic period. Two of the most significant are Sesklo and Dimini in Thessaly. Excavations at Sesklo have revealed a settlement established around 6500 BCE, featuring rectangular houses with plastered walls and stone foundations. The site also yielded a rich collection of pottery, tools, and ornaments, indicating a thriving community engaged in agriculture, pottery-making, and animal husbandry.
Aerial View Of The Archaeological Site Of Sesklo In Thessaly, Greece The Early Neolithic In Greece: The First Farming Communities In Europe (Cambridge World Archaeology)

Dimini, located near the coast of Thessaly, was another major Early Neolithic settlement. Excavations there have uncovered a fortified town dating back to around 5800 BCE. The town boasted impressive stone walls, circular houses, and a large communal building. Dimini also played a significant role in the development of pottery, with its distinctive red-on-white painted ceramics becoming a hallmark of the period.

Ceramic Art

Pottery played a vital role in Early Neolithic Greece. Ceramic vessels served both practical and symbolic purposes, utilized for cooking, storage, and rituals. The Early Neolithic potters of Greece demonstrated remarkable skill and ingenuity, creating a variety of shapes and decorations. Incised, impressed, and painted motifs adorned these vessels, often depicting animals, plants, and geometric patterns. The production of pottery required specialized knowledge and techniques, indicating the emergence of skilled craftspeople within the community.

One of the most striking examples of Early Neolithic pottery is the "Lady of Sesklo" figurine. Discovered at the Sesklo site, this small clay statuette depicts a female figure with exaggerated features, possibly representing a fertility goddess or a deity. Such figurines provide valuable insights into the symbolic and religious beliefs of the Early Neolithic people.

Environmental Changes

The Early Neolithic period in Greece coincided with significant environmental changes. The end of the last glacial period led to a gradual warming of the climate, resulting in increased rainfall and the expansion of forests. These changes created a favorable environment for agriculture, contributing to the emergence of settled communities. However, deforestation and soil erosion were also challenges that the Early Neolithic farmers had to contend with.

Social Organization

The transition to an agricultural lifestyle had implications for social organization within Early Neolithic communities. The need for cooperation in farming and other tasks likely strengthened social bonds and led to the emergence of community leaders. Evidence from archaeological sites suggests the presence of communal buildings and shared spaces, indicating a sense of collective identity and shared purpose.

Trade and Interactions

The Early Neolithic period in Greece was characterized by increased mobility and interaction between communities. Archaeological evidence reveals the exchange of goods, such as pottery, tools, and raw materials, over relatively long distances. This indicates the existence of trade networks and the development of connections between different regions. The movement of people and ideas also contributed to the spread of cultural practices and technologies.

The Early Neolithic period in Greece was a transformative era that laid the foundation for the development of civilization. The adoption of agriculture, the emergence of settled communities, and the development of pottery and other technologies marked a significant shift in human history. Archaeological discoveries from sites like Sesklo and Dimini have provided invaluable insights into the lives and practices of the people who shaped this pivotal period. The Early Neolithic in Greece stands as a testament to the ingenuity, adaptability, and creativity of our human ancestors.

References

Giles, N. (2017). The Early Neolithic in Greece: The First Farmers. Cambridge University Press.
Perlès, C. (2001). The Early Neolithic in Greece: An Archaeological Overview. Cambridge University Press.

The Early Neolithic in Greece: The First Farming Communities in Europe (Cambridge World Archaeology)

by Catherine Perlès

5 out of 5