Abstract

This essay is a synthesis of theories, hypotheses and conclusions concerning Minoan religion, from the time of Sir Arthur Evans to the present. It does not present new evidence nor new documentation, but does analyze the problems and goals of contemporary academics' discussion. The analysis reveals how Evans' theories have been modified and updated through modern methods and the introduction of new disciplines. The time covered is from Early Minoan III-Late Minoan II (c.2200-1400 BC). The discussion is limited to Crete with occasional references to the religion of the Greek mainland. The evidence examined emphasizes the importance of religious sites and of the part that sacrifice, ritual and sacred garments played in Minoan religion. The discussion reveals that early scholars, including Evans, drew on the knowledge of preceding generations to arrive at their conclusions. Some of the evidence formulated by scholars in the 19th century remained the basis of ideas in the early 20th century. The ultimate goal of this paper is to stimulate the interest of new students in Aegean history, particularly in Minoan civilization