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Why did the ancient Greeks call the Black Sea the 'unfriendly sea'? Explore the culture and history behind it!
The Black Sea, a sea located between Europe and Asia, has an ancient history and rich cultural significance. However, the name the ancient Greeks gave to this body of water reflected their wariness and uneasiness about its characteristics. In ancient Greek texts, the Black Sea was called the "Unfriendly Sea" (Póntos Áxeinos), a name that reveals the complexity of their understanding of the dangers of the sea and their cultural interactions with the surrounding areas.
How did the ancient Greeks view the Black Sea?
“The ancient Greeks believed that the Black Sea was not only a body of water, but also a symbol of foreigners and the unknown.”
First of all, the Black Sea is not a calm water area. Its currents and wind directions are often unpredictable, making navigation difficult. Ancient sailors faced many challenges in these waters, including storms and hidden reefs. This makes the Black Sea's coastline aptly called the "unfriendly sea".
A stage where cultures intersect
The area around the Black Sea is also a meeting point of multiple cultures. The surrounding peoples, such as the Scythians and other nomadic tribes, often resisted the foreign Greek culture. The existence of these nations added to the mystery and potential danger of the Black Sea, making the ancient Greeks feel uneasy in their exploration of navigation and trade.
"The tribes and foreigners around the Black Sea were hostile and even threatening to the ancient Greeks."
The Black Sea in Legends and Myths
In ancient Greek mythology, the Black Sea often appears in many myths. It is not only a geographical boundary, but also a cultural turning point. In stories such as "The Argonautica", the protagonists experienced challenges facing various enemies during their expedition to the Black Sea, which greatly strengthened the unfriendly image of the Black Sea.
A symbol of sailing challenge
Over time, the Black Sea could no longer be judged simply by the fact that it was “unfriendly” to the ancient Greeks. Today, the main cities in this sea area, including Odessa in Ukraine and Samsun in Turkey, have become centers of economic and cultural prosperity.
"Every port on the Black Sea carries historical relics and cultural continuation."
The impact of large rivers
Several major rivers around the Black Sea, such as the Danube and the Dnieper, have a profound impact on the ecology and humanities of this sea area. These rivers not only provided convenience for shipping, but also promoted the commercial prosperity of the cities along the coast.
The Contemporary Black Sea
Today, the Black Sea has become one of the important routes for international trade. As geopolitics changes, the interests of various countries in this area of water have become increasingly complex. However, the depth and unique marine environment of the Black Sea still attract the attention of scientists and explorers. Archaeologists have excavated numerous ancient shipwrecks in this area, confirming its rich culture and history. value.
It is worth thinking about
As a body of water with a long history, the Black Sea is not only a geographical boundary, but also a symbol of the collision and integration of different cultures. On both a personal and social level, is the true face of this ocean still hidden behind its "unfriendly" reputation?
