1. Confirmation of Homer's Epic: Schliemann's excavations unearthed a multi-layered site, revealing the existence of several civilizations that had occupied the site over thousands of years. This provided archaeological evidence for the existence of a city that could be identified with Homer's legendary Troy, a city that had been previously thought to be purely fictional.
2. Rich and Extensive Artifacts: Schliemann's excavations yielded a wealth of artifacts, including gold jewelry, weapons, pottery, and other objects of everyday life. These artifacts provided valuable insights into the lives and cultures of the people who lived at Troy, revealing their level of sophistication and craftsmanship.
3. Scientific Method vs. Romantic Imagination: Schliemann's work was controversial at the time because it challenged the prevailing romantic view of archaeology, which relied heavily on imagination and interpretation. Schliemann, on the other hand, employed a more scientific approach, carefully documenting his findings and using archaeological methods to uncover the site's layers and interpret its history.
4. Archaeological Breakthrough: Schliemann's excavations at Hisarlik were among the first major archaeological projects in the Mediterranean region, and his discoveries helped to revolutionize the field of archaeology. His work inspired other archaeologists to conduct similar excavations, leading to a surge in archaeological discoveries and a deeper understanding of ancient history and culture.
5. Cultural Impact: The discovery of Troy had a significant cultural impact, capturing the imagination of the public and reigniting interest in ancient Greece and its myths. Schliemann's work helped to solidify the connection between Homer's epics and historical reality, making the story of Troy a part of popular culture and literature for centuries to come.
In conclusion, Schliemann's discoveries at Hisarlik were astonishing because they provided tangible evidence for a legendary city, revealed a wealth of artifacts, ushered in a new era of archaeological practice, and sparked a renewed interest in ancient history and mythology. His work remains a testament to the power of archaeological investigation and the enduring fascination with the ancient world.