The individual and the state in Mycenaean Greece

Cynthia W. Shelmerdine Bulletin of the Institute of Classical Studies 54:1 (June 2011): 19-28.

Περίληψη (στα Αγγλικά)

Understanding of Mycenaean palatial administration has moved from a monolithic view of the palace as having total control over the economy of a given state, to a binary model that imagines a non-palatial sector of the state economy alongside the palatial. Further research suggests, however, that we should rather think of a continuum, with individuals and groups involved in various ways and to various degrees with the central palatial administration, from full-time interaction to no contact at all. The evidence shows the negotiating power of individuals, and also the role of the palace as a consumer rather than simply as a producer. This paper brings together some indications of such a continuum, drawn chiefly from the Linear B tablets. It closes with a brief look at relevant archaeological evidence: the use of seals to indicate status and authority, and the evidence of non-palatial settlements within palatial states.