Buried Cities, Volume 3: Mycenae
Buried Cities, Volume 3: Mycenae, written by Jennie Hall in the early 20th century, chronicles the excavation of the ancient city of Mycenae in Greece. It details the discoveries made by archaeologist Dr. Henry Schliemann, including treasures linked to the legendary king Agamemnon, such as gold artifacts, weapons, and vases. The book offers insights into Mycenaean culture and burial customs, highlighting the challenges and successes of archaeological work while bringing to life the history of a once-thriving civilization.
About Buried Cities, Volume 3: Mycenae
Chapter Summaries
- Foreword
- The author encourages young readers to imagine the excitement of archaeological discovery by comparing it to finding hidden treasure. She sets up the wonder and adventure of uncovering ancient civilizations buried beneath the earth.
- 1
- Dr. Schliemann visits the ruins of Mycenae with his wife and a Greek guide, then returns with workers to excavate the site. After months of careful digging, they discover spectacular royal tombs filled with golden treasures, masks, and weapons, which Schliemann believes belonged to Agamemnon and other Homeric heroes.
Key Themes
- Dreams and Determination
- Schliemann's childhood dream of uncovering ancient cities drives the entire narrative. His unwavering determination from boyhood through adulthood demonstrates how passion and persistence can achieve seemingly impossible goals.
- Past and Present Connection
- The book explores how ancient civilizations connect to modern times through archaeological discovery. The treasures bridge thousands of years, making Homer's stories tangible and real.
- Scientific Discovery
- The methodical process of archaeological excavation reveals how careful observation and systematic work can unlock historical mysteries. Schliemann's techniques represent early scientific archaeology.
Characters
- Dr. Henry Schliemann(protagonist)
- German archaeologist who discovered and excavated Mycenae. Passionate about Greek history and Homer's stories, he fulfilled his childhood dream of uncovering ancient cities.
- Mrs. Schliemann(major)
- Dr. Schliemann's wife who worked alongside him in the excavations. She could recite Homer's verses in Greek and participated directly in the digging.
- Greek Guide(minor)
- Local Greek man who initially showed visitors around the ruins of Mycenae, believing giants had built the walls and structures.
- Agamemnon(major)
- Ancient king of Mycenae, called 'king of men' in Homer's stories. Led the Greeks in the Trojan War and was believed by Schliemann to be buried in the royal tombs.
- Ancient Queens(major)
- Royal women buried with golden crowns, scepters, and elaborate jewelry in the circle of royal tombs. Their graves contained magnificent treasures.
- Ancient Warriors(major)
- Mycenaean fighters buried with golden masks, bronze swords, and elaborate armor. Believed to be heroes who fought in the Trojan War.
