Troy in Myth and Historical Debate
Troy is located in the northwestern part of Anatolia, surrounded by the sea. The Trojan War occurred on this land, which became the basis for the writings of various writers and artists. Now, questions have arisen about whether the war known to people from Homer’s stories was true.
Scholars’ opinions were divided into two different categories. Some believed in the number of troops described by Homer and the cause of the war. Others argue that Homer exaggerated many events to enhance his works (Bryce 392). Despite this, most scholars agree that a Troy existed and belongs to the remains of Hissarlik.
Archaeological Evidence and Scholarly Interpretations
The main proof of Homer’s stories is a manuscript by Manapa Tarhund, who claims that there was indeed a kingdom in the place of Troy, which in the thirteenth century was subjected to significant attacks that could have been organized by the king of Ahiyawans (Bryce 393). Also, scholars suggest that Troy can be identified with the kingdom of Willusa, which indicates the existence of a conflict between the Greeks and the Trojans due to constant wars.
Strategic Motives Behind the Mycenaean Attacks
At the same time, scientists consider several reasons that could explain the Mycenaean attacks on Troy. First, the location of Troy was not favorable for the development of Greek shipping. Secondly, Troy was located on the main road connecting Anatolia and Central Europe, making it a target for some attacks (Bryce 396). Thus, scholars consider these options for starting a war more realistic than the love story described by Homer.
Since the historical sources do not indicate one major attack on Troy, they assume that Troy was destroyed in many smaller-scale invasions (Bryce 397). Moreover, not all of the wars were waged by the Greeks, because Troy bordered other neighbors who wanted to occupy its strategically advantageous territory. Meanwhile, Homer’s description was based on ballads and songs passed down by people about Troy, which may be exaggerated. Thus, scholars are inclined to believe that Troy existed, but its destruction was the result of wars for territory, not the kidnapping of Helen.
Work Cited
Bryce, Trevor. The Kingdom of the Hittites. OUP Oxford, 2005.