Architecture of Minoan Crete: Constructing Identity in the Aegean Bronze Age - Hardcover

McEnroe, John C.

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9780292721937: Architecture of Minoan Crete: Constructing Identity in the Aegean Bronze Age

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0292721935 ISBN 13: 9780292721937

Publisher: University of Texas Press, 2010

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Ever since Sir Arthur Evans first excavated at the site of the Palace at Knossos in the early twentieth century, scholars and visitors have been drawn to the architecture of Bronze Age Crete. Much of the attraction comes from the geographical and historical uniqueness of the island. Equidistant from Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, Minoan Crete is on the shifting conceptual border between East and West, and chronologically suspended between history and prehistory. In this culturally dynamic context, architecture provided more than physical shelter; it embodied meaning. Architecture was a medium through which Minoans constructed their notions of social, ethnic, and historical identity: the buildings tell us about how the Minoans saw themselves, and how they wanted to be seen by others. Architecture of Minoan Crete is the first comprehensive study of the entire range of Minoan architecture-including houses, palaces, tombs, and cities-from 7000 BC to 1100 BC. John C. McEnroe synthesizes the vast literature on Minoan Crete, with particular emphasis on the important discoveries of the past twenty years, to provide an up-to-date account of Minoan architecture. His accessible writing style, skillful architectural drawings of houses and palaces, site maps, and color photographs make this book inviting for general readers and visitors to Crete, as well as scholars.

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Review:

"Architecture of Minoan Crete: Constructing Identity in the Aegean Bronze Age investigates the prehistoric and early historic architectural material record of the island of Crete from a perspective largely informed by reflexive archaeological theory... A highlight of the book is its visual aesthetic which emphasises for the reader that not only does McEnroe have a solid grasp of all the issues involved but he is also a highly skilled surveyor and draftsman... Architecture of Minoan Crete is a highly engaging and visually appealing volume that will make a handsome addition to any Aegeanist's library. The author's light narrative touch and his consideration of such a wide timeframe have culminated in a welcome general introduction to the subject." Frank Lynam, Archaeological Review from Cambridge

About the Author:

JOHN C. McENROE is the John and Anne Fischer Professor of Fine Arts at Hamilton College in Clinton, New York, and a member of the American School of Classical Studies in Athens. He has worked in Crete for many years as a field archaeologist and excavation architect. His recent publications include Critical Perspectives in Art History (co-edited with Deborah Pokinski) and Pseira V: The Architecture of Pseira.

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