Dan Snow's History Hit Did the Trojan War Really Happen?
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Sep 21, 2025 Join Eric H. Cline, a professor of ancient history and archaeology, as he explores the true origins of the Trojan War. He delves into the evidence of ancient poetry and archaeology, revealing insights about Bronze Age warfare and the significance of the Mycenaean world. Cline discusses the discovery of Troy and its layers of destruction, supported by intriguing Hittite records. Finally, he examines how Homer's epics shaped the cultural memory of the war, leaving us to ponder whether this legendary conflict was based in reality or pure myth.
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Multiple Sources Support The Tale
- Homer is not the sole source; archaeology and Hittite records corroborate aspects of the Trojan War story.
- Eric H. Cline argues a kernel of historical truth underlies the epic rather than pure myth.
Homer Writes Centuries After The Events
- Homer likely composed the Iliad in the 8th century BC while the war events date to c.1250–1200 BC.
- That 400–500 year gap explains poetic layering over possible historical events.
Mycenaean Greece Was A Patchwork Of Kingdoms
- Late Bronze Age Greece comprised multiple Mycenaean kingdoms like Mycenae, Tiryns and Pylos.
- These independent polities traded and interacted but political unity remains uncertain.
