Conversations: The Evidence is in the Thigh Bone, Climate and Collapse in the Bronze Age w/ Dr Flint Dibble
Apr 26, 2024
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Dr Flint Dibble discusses how animal bones reveal insights into the end of the Bronze Age due to climate change, challenging misconceptions. Topics include Nestor's Palace identification, volcanic eruptions impact on agriculture, historical disasters effects, societal changes, agricultural transitions from sheep to goats, and climate change adaptation lessons from past civilizations.
Climate change impacted ancient agriculture, leading to shifts in livestock species.
Homeric poetry influenced sacrificial rituals in ancient Greek societies.
Transition from sheep to goats in Eastern Greece and Crete due to drier climate conditions.
Ancient agricultural practices emphasized polyculture systems for resilience and productivity.
Deep dives
Adaptation to Drier Climate Through Intensification
During a period of increasing dryness in the Eastern Mediterranean around 1500 BC, humans adapted by intensifying agricultural practices. They began growing crops in more marginal landscapes, indicating efforts to maximize production. This adaptation led to a period of cultural flourishing, marked by structures like palaces and the use of linear B script.
Shift Towards Goats Due to Eastern Climate Changes
As the climate in Eastern Greece and Crete became drier due to natural changes, there was a noticeable shift from sheep to goats in animal husbandry practices. This adaptation was observed in the eastern regions that faced higher aridity risks. Topographical differences and rainfall distribution influenced this transition, emphasizing the connection between climate patterns and animal economy.
Impact of Climate Change on Animal Husbandry
Climate change in the Eastern Mediterranean region impacted animal husbandry practices, leading to shifts in the predominant livestock species. The transition from sheep to goats in response to drier conditions highlighted the necessity of adapting to changing environmental factors. Observing these changes offers insights into how ancient societies adjusted their agricultural practices to climate variations.
Influence of Homeric Epic on Ritual Sacrifices
Homeric epic poetry influenced ritual sacrifices and religious practices in ancient Greek societies. Specific descriptions of sacrificial rituals in the epics, such as the burning of thigh bones, were mirrored in archaeological evidence from various sites. These practices evolved over time to align more closely with the representations found in Homer, indicating the cultural impact of epic storytelling on religious customs.
Transition to Goat Farming in Ancient Greece
In ancient Greece, a significant transition from sheep to goat farming is discussed. The shift was a slow process spanning several centuries, impacting various regions uniquely. This shift towards goat farming is linked to cultural and economic changes, contributing to the development of city-states in the subsequent periods.
Environmental Adaptation and Biodiversity in Food Production
The podcast explores how ancient agricultural practices in regions like Pompeii emphasized polyculture systems to maximize productivity. These diverse farming techniques, contrasting modern monoculture approaches, showcase sustainable and resilient methods that adapt to environmental changes.
Climate Change Adaptation and Baseline Effect
The discussion delves into the historical adaptation to climate change and the challenges posed by the shifting baseline effect. Drawing parallels to modern climate change, the importance of learning from indigenous agricultural practices and integrating scientific knowledge to tackle contemporary climate challenges is emphasized.
CW/TW: far too many Greek myths involve assault. Given it's fiction, and typically involves gods and/or monsters, I'm not as deferential as I would be were I referencing the real thing.
