People > Carl Blegen

Carl Blegen

Background

Carl Blegen (1887-1971) was a prominent American archaeologist known for his groundbreaking work in the field of Aegean archaeology. He is particularly famous for his excavations at the sites of Troy and Pylos, which have significantly advanced our understanding of Mycenaean civilization and its connections to Homeric epics.

Early Life and Education:

Birth: Carl William Blegen was born on January 27, 1887, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.
Education: Blegen attended Yale University, where he earned his undergraduate degree. He then pursued graduate studies at the American School of Classical Studies at Athens (ASCSA), where he developed a strong foundation in classical archaeology.

Career and Major Contributions:

Excavations at Troy:
- Collaboration with Wilhelm Dörpfeld: Blegen first worked at Troy under Wilhelm Dörpfeld, a pioneer in the field, who had continued Heinrich Schliemann's work.
- Independent Excavations: Blegen later led his own excavations at Troy from 1932 to 1938. His work at the site is considered one of his most significant achievements.
- Stratigraphy and Chronology: Blegen's meticulous stratigraphic work clarified the complex layering of the site, distinguishing nine major levels of occupation (Troy I to IX). His research provided a more accurate chronology of the site, helping to identify the layers that correspond to the Troy of Homeric legend.
Excavations at Pylos:
- Discovery of the Palace of Nestor: In 1939, Blegen began excavations at Pylos, which led to the discovery of the well-preserved Mycenaean palace known as the Palace of Nestor. This site is named after the Homeric king Nestor, who is featured in the "Iliad" and "Odyssey."
- Linear B Tablets: One of the most significant finds at Pylos was a cache of Linear B tablets. These clay tablets, inscribed with an early form of Greek writing, provided crucial evidence for understanding Mycenaean administration and society.
- Architectural and Artistic Discoveries: Blegen uncovered various rooms, frescoes, and artifacts at the palace, offering insights into Mycenaean architecture, art, and daily life.
Other Contributions:
- Korakou and Prosymna: Before his major work at Troy and Pylos, Blegen excavated at Korakou and Prosymna, sites that yielded important information about early Helladic and Mycenaean cultures.
- Publications: Blegen authored numerous scholarly articles and monographs, detailing his findings and interpretations. His works, such as "Troy and the Trojans" and "The Palace of Nestor at Pylos in Western Messenia," remain essential references in Aegean archaeology.

Legacy and Honors:

Influence on Archaeology: Blegen's work set high standards for archaeological methodology, particularly in stratigraphy and excavation techniques. His contributions have had a lasting impact on the field of Aegean archaeology.
Recognition: Blegen received numerous honors and awards for his contributions to archaeology. He was a member of various prestigious academic institutions and societies.
Blegen Library: In recognition of his contributions, the American School of Classical Studies at Athens named its library after him, ensuring that his legacy continues to support the work of future archaeologists.

Personal Life:

Family: Carl Blegen was married to Elizabeth Pierce Blegen, an archaeologist who collaborated with him on several projects. Their partnership extended to both their professional and personal lives.

Conclusion:

Carl Blegen's meticulous excavations at Troy and Pylos have significantly enriched our understanding of the ancient Aegean world. His discoveries, particularly the stratigraphic layers of Troy and the Linear B tablets at Pylos, have provided crucial insights into Mycenaean civilization and its connections to Homeric literature. Blegen's legacy continues to influence the field of archaeology, and his contributions are celebrated by scholars and institutions worldwide.