Final answer:
The flat and similar appearance of the second and third legs of Kiley’s journey in Mycenaean art can be attributed to an artistic choice to depict figures in a stylized, abstract manner that emphasizes a narrative and symbolic purpose.
Step-by-step explanation:
The second and third legs of Kiley’s journey being flat and similar can be explained through the examination of artistic techniques used by the Mycenaeans and the intent to portray a narrative within their warrior culture.
These legs represent static figures on historic artworks, where the physical properties are abstracted to imply a certain rigidity and to convey a message through the art, rather than achieving a lifelike representation.
As Steven points out, “The axis of the hips are no longer aligned”, which alters the symmetry and naturalism typically found in figures.
Beth’s observation about the cylindrical bodies and flat torsos further enforces the abstract nature of these figures.
Another point made by Beth is that the figures of the animals are geometric, blending into the patterns of the artwork, emphasizing the decorative aspect over realism.
These techniques contribute to the artwork's overall narrative and symbolic purpose, which was a common practice in ancient cultures, especially among the Mycenaeans.
The use of flat and abstract figures may also suggest activities such as bull-leaping, as Beth infers, with minimal distinction in body shapes and clothing between figures.
Steven’s mention of the incised eyes and use of materials like shell and limestone highlights the preciousness and complexity within the simplicity of the figures.