Clothes and Crafts in Ancient Greece

Children's Literature

Beautiful photographs of Greek household items, statues, jewelry and temples offer insight into a fascinating civilization. Beginning with the Minoans of Crete from 5,000 years ago and ending with the conquests of Alexander the Great during the Hellenistic Age, this source focuses on crafts, clothing and festivals. The Greeks formed city-states and never united as one country, but they were incredible architects and artists. Impressive temples are decorated with carved stone friezes and columns of various styles. Beautiful bronze statues and vases demonstrate the skill of the ancient metal smiths. Decorated terra cotta pottery tells us about the culture, clothing, sports and furniture. Broken pieces of pottery, called ostraka, were used to send messages or to cast votes for banishment. Today, the word ostracize means to loose approval with people. Both men and women favored loose linen garments called chitons and both cared about hairstyles. Although the source is only 32 pages long, it is packed with interesting information and many photographs. As part of the "Clothes and Crafts in History" series, the source comes with a glossary, index, and some craft ideas for children. 2000 (orig. 1998), Gareth Stevens, $21.27. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Laura Hummel