Social Structure in Ancient Thera

Social Structure in Ancient Thera
Social structure in ancient Thera, (pre-eruption) can be seen through the analysis of artefacts, specifically frescos. ‘The Miniature Frieze Fresco’ and ‘The Ladies Fresco’ give an understanding of life in ancient Thera, and specifically the social structure present about 3,600 years ago. A quote by Dr. N. Marinatos enforces this idea of social structure in ancient Thera.
‘The Miniature Frieze Fresco’ also known as ‘The Admirals Fresco’ and ‘The Ship Fresco’ displays a vast understanding of the social structure present in Ancient Thera. From analysis of this fresco we can see many factors that demonstrate social order; the sizing of the ships, complexity of the ships, the decorations and paintings on or in the ships, the clothing, function and poise of those aboard the ship and the theory of the fleet traveling to Knossos for a ceremony or celebration of some sort. There is an array of different sized ships, the smaller ones are crowded and filled with those of lesser importance and are having to row themselves, where as those in the larger boats are not having to row but sit back and relax throughout the journey. The larger boats suggest a higher status due to the fact that they are lined with ropes of lanterns and large decorations on the bow. The second largest boat is thought to hold the most important and contains the highest social class passengers for it is adorned with 4 of these decorations on the bow and an abundance of rope lanterns, as well as the fact that the passengers are completely relaxed and at ease and are fancily dressed in bright colours. There are only a few passengers on such a large boat which also suggests their social status over the others that are crammed into littler boats and having to work for their place. The larger ships hulls are elaborately painted compared to the bare hulls of the smaller, less insignificant boats. It is evident that to travel anywhere on a large fancy boat it would cost a lot...