The Ancient Greek Name for the Aegean Sea: From Tythes to Aegean
Europe is a Hellenic name and mathematics and all educational resources introduced to the world through Hellenism and the Hellenes. These ancient peoples studied and contributed significantly to the world as we know it today. Through the Alexandrians of the Hellenic empire under the Argead dynasty and Corinthian league, the Aegean Sea has had a rich cultural and historical significance.
Historical Context and Naming Conventions
The Sea at the Eastern Part of the Mediterranean has always been named with a Greek name. This is because the Greeks have been living in this region for centuries. Initially, the Aegean Sea was called ΤΥΘΗΣ (Tythes) before it was renamed to Aegean in around 1600 B.C. To honor the Athenian King Aegeas, the sea was renamed after him. The modern Greeks refer to it as Aegean Pelagos (Αιγαον πλαγο).
Etymology and Linguistic Roots
The word for "sea" in Greek is "Pelagos", which is believed to be related to the Pelasgians, who were displaced by the Doric incursion. The only Doric dominated islands were Crete, Melos, Thera, Santorini, and the Dodecanese including Rhodes. The Ionians and Aeolians, on the other hand, appear to be more closely associated with the "Pelagic" populations. The word for "Pelagos dweller" still survives in some remote islands like Ikaria, where it is referred to as "pelaginos". This word contrasted with "Dorians", who were often referred to as "forest/mountain people" (Δωριε).
Mythological and Cultural Significance
In ancient times, the Aegean Sea was also known as the 'archipelago', reflecting its island-filled nature. This misconception was similarly held by the Ottomans, who referred to the sea as the 'sea of islands'. According to Greek mythology, the Aegean Sea took its name after King Aegeas threw himself and died in the sea because he thought his son, Theseus, was dead. This tragic story has further cemented the area's cultural and mythological identity.
Conclusion
The Aegean Sea, with its many names and meanings, holds a special place in Greek history, mythology, and culture. Its renaming and continued usage as Aegean Pelagos is a testament to the enduring influence of the ancient Greeks and their contributions to the world.