The history of Cyprus after about 1050 BC is clouded by what is usually called the 'Dark Age' in Greece. Sacred architecture of the Cypro-Geometric period is known also from Ayia Irini, where a rustic temenos was uncovered, an irregular oval in shape, with an altar and a table of offerings for libations. Citium is referred to as Khardihadast (' the New City') in Phoenician inscriptions engraved on bronze bowls and found near Amathus on the south coast of Cyprus, west of Citium. The end of the Cypro-Geometric period, which may be placed about 750 BC finds Cyprus at the beginning of an era of prosperity which was to culminate during the subsequent period. The Mycenaean Greeks had established their political and cultural supremacy in the various kingdoms of the island which were formed after the final stages of Achaean settlement. Only Citium remained outside their rule, with a Phoenician king appointed directly from Tyre.

Archaeological evidence affects the attitude towards literary tradition. Continuity of literary tradition was maintained between the Mycenaean period and the archaic Greek period by the recitation of epic lays. The movements of the Dorian group are all anterior to the so-called Dorian invasion. They afford some insight into the way of life of these primitive people. This chapter presents the traditions of Dorians and Heracleidae before the Trojan War, as well as the traditions of Dorians and Heracleidae between the Trojan War and their entry into the Peloponnese. The Dorians chose to attack Melos and Thera first before other conquests, presumably because these islands were on the way to their friends in east Crete, Rhodes and the Dodecanese and also because they held important positions on the trade routes to the Levant. The chapter also talks about the invasions of Thessalians, Boeotians, and Eleans, and ends with a note on the effects of the invasions on the Mycenaean Greeks.