Final answer:
Psammetichus' method of determining the antiquity of the Egyptian people or the Phrygians tells us about ancient cultures through linguistic experiments, the importance of language as a cultural identifier, and the influence of cultural exchanges.
Step-by-step explanation:
Psammetichus' method of determining the antiquity of the Egyptian people or the Phrygians tells us about ancient cultures in a few ways:
- Psammetichus conducted a linguistic experiment by placing two newborns in isolation with a shepherd, believing that the first word they spoke would reveal the origin of language. This experiment shows the curiosity and pursuit of knowledge in ancient cultures like Egypt.
- The experiment also demonstrates the belief in the importance of language as a cultural identifier, as Psammetichus wanted to determine the original language of the ancient Egyptians and Phrygians.
- Psammetichus' method highlights the influence of cultural exchanges and interactions between different ancient civilizations, as the Phrygians were originally from Anatolia but had connections with the Egyptians and the Samothracians.