This is a relatively quick question but I'm doing some independent research on ancient civilization. To what extent is the work of Heinrich Schliemann still relevant to a discussion of Minoan and Mycenean culture? Is it purely of historical interest (as in, the history of the discovery of Mycenae)?
Also, do you have any suggestions for a reading list?
Since archaeology necessarily involves destruction and is therefore not repeatable, the study of any archaeological site must take into account the work of everyone who has excavated there. Since Schliemann dug Grave Circle A, the rich tombs of the Late Helladic I period, his work and publications (such as they are) remain fundamental for the reconstruction of elite burial practices at the site. He also dug quite a few test trenches across the site, which disturbed the stratigraphy.
Louise Schofield's The Mycenaeans and J. Lesley Fitton's Minoans are good places to begin.