Book Review: 1177 B.C.: The Year Civilization Collapsed by Eric H. Cline

In his book "1177 B.C.: The Year Civilization Collapsed," renowned archaeologist and ancient history scholar Eric H. Cline takes readers on a captivating journey through the Late Bronze Age, focusing on the interconnected civilizations of the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean regions. With a particular emphasis on the role of Cyprus during this period, Cline presents a comprehensive and thought-provoking analysis of the events leading up to and following the collapse of multiple thriving societies around 1177 B.C.

Cline's work is a significant contribution to the field of archaeology, as it sheds light on a crucial turning point in history that has long been debated by scholars. By weaving together evidence from archaeological findings, textual sources, and cutting-edge scientific techniques, Cline presents a multi-faceted view of the Late Bronze Age world and the factors that may have contributed to its dramatic demise.

One of the book's greatest strengths is its focus on the intricate web of connections between the various civilizations of the time, including the Minoans, Mycenaeans, Hittites, Egyptians, Assyrians, Babylonians, Mitannians, Canaanites, and Cypriots. Cline skillfully demonstrates how these societies were linked through diplomacy, trade, and cultural exchanges, creating a globalized network that was both impressive and fragile. This interconnectedness, he argues, may have played a significant role in the widespread collapse that occurred around 1177 B.C.

For readers interested in the history and archaeology of Cyprus, Cline's book offers valuable insights into the island's crucial role during the Late Bronze Age. As a major hub for trade and a source of copper, Cyprus was deeply embedded in the international networks of the time. Cline explores the evidence of Cypriot interactions with other civilizations, such as the presence of Cypriot pottery and the mention of Alashiya (the ancient name for Cyprus) in diplomatic correspondences like the Amarna Letters.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Cline's work is his discussion of the mysterious Sea Peoples, a group of raiders or migrants who have often been blamed for the collapse of Late Bronze Age civilizations. While acknowledging their potential impact, Cline presents a nuanced view of the Sea Peoples, suggesting that they may have been as much victims as aggressors in the tumultuous events of the period. He also highlights the evidence of their possible settlement in Cyprus and other parts of the Eastern Mediterranean following the collapse.

Cline's writing style is engaging and accessible, making complex archaeological and historical concepts easy to grasp for readers with varying levels of expertise. He skillfully balances the presentation of evidence with interpretations and hypotheses, inviting readers to draw their own conclusions about the causes and consequences of the Late Bronze Age collapse.

Throughout the book, Cline explores various factors that may have contributed to the downfall of these civilizations, including climate change, drought, famine, earthquakes, internal rebellions, and the breakdown of international trade routes. He argues that it was likely a "perfect storm" of multiple stressors, rather than a single cause, that ultimately led to the collapse. This multi-causal approach is a refreshing departure from the oversimplified explanations often put forth in popular media and helps to capture the complexity of the historical processes at work.

One of the most thought-provoking aspects of Cline's book is his discussion of the concept of "systems collapse" and its potential application to the Late Bronze Age world. Drawing on the work of scholars like Colin Renfrew, Cline suggests that the interconnected nature of these civilizations may have made them particularly vulnerable to a cascade of failures, where the collapse of one society could trigger the fall of others. This idea of a "multiplier effect" is particularly relevant in the context of Cyprus, which was deeply enmeshed in the trade networks of the time and may have been significantly impacted by disruptions to these networks.

Cline also delves into the aftermath of the Late Bronze Age collapse, exploring how the surviving societies adapted and rebuilt in the centuries that followed. He notes that while some cities and regions were abandoned or experienced significant population declines, others managed to persist and even thrive in the new political and economic landscape. This resilience is evident in Cyprus, where sites like Kition, Enkomi, and Palaepaphos continued to be important centers of trade and cultural exchange in the Early Iron Age.

One of the most valuable aspects of Cline's work is the way in which he situates the Late Bronze Age collapse within the broader context of human history. By drawing parallels with other instances of societal collapse, such as the fall of the Roman Empire and the Maya civilization, he encourages readers to consider the lessons that can be learned from these ancient events. In an era of increasing globalization and interconnectedness, Cline's insights into the vulnerabilities of complex systems are particularly relevant and thought-provoking.

In conclusion, "1177 B.C.: The Year Civilization Collapsed" is a must-read for anyone interested in the history and archaeology of the Late Bronze Age, and particularly for those with a focus on ancient Cyprus. Eric H. Cline's meticulous research, engaging writing style, and thought-provoking analysis make this book a valuable contribution to the field and a fascinating read for both scholars and general audiences alike. By shedding light on the complex factors that led to the collapse of these ancient civilizations, Cline's work offers important insights into the fragility of human societies and the importance of understanding the lessons of the past.