Stuff You Should Know SYSK Selects: Was Atlantis A Real Place?
Mar 16, 2019
Discover the enduring mystery of Atlantis as archaeologists unravel potential historical inspirations behind Plato's legendary city. Dive into the fascinating tales of the lost city of Haliki, which shares eerie similarities with Atlantis, including its catastrophic submergence. Explore the academic pursuits of submerged coastal civilizations, and uncover how recent findings might shift our understanding of Atlantis’ true location. With humor and inquisitive insights, the discussion weaves through history, myth, and modern connections.
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Plato's Atlantis: An Allegory?
- Plato's Atlantis, mentioned only by him, was likely an allegory about hubris and punishment.
- The story mirrors biblical themes and likely inspired later occultist interpretations.
Donnelly's Influence on Atlantis
- Ignatius Donnelly's 1882 book, Atlantis, the Antediluvian World, popularized Atlantis.
- Donnelly theorized Atlantis seeded civilizations like Egypt and pre-Inca Peru, sparking fringe interest.
Helike: The Real Atlantis?
- The likely inspiration for Atlantis is the ancient Greek city of Helike.
- Helike shared many similarities with Atlantis, including a powerful Poseidon cult and a sudden, watery demise.