The revival of classical education as the foundation for a system that connects language and history with the needs of the modern world, positioning Greece as a pioneer in the promotion of humanities.
by Eugenia Manolidou
In a recent article in Corriere della Sera1 I read about the alarming decline in student enrollment in Italy’s classical high schools – a country with a long-standing tradition in these institutions, as over 600 classical high schools operate nationwide. This phenomenon is not limited to Italy but reflects a global trend of young people distancing themselves from classical and humanities studies.Nevertheless, the article emphasizes the value of classical high schools as tools for cultivating critical thinking, ethics, and culture.
Over the past three years, I have had the opportunity to travel extensively across Europe, America, and Asia, advocating for the importance of the ancient Greek language and culture as an integral part of children’s primary education. Through these experiences, I encountered widespread admiration for Greece’s role in shaping global cultural and intellectual heritage.
It is both impressive and somewhat perplexing that, in every country I visit, people I talk to speak with respect and admiration for Greece’s monumental contribution to global thought and cultural heritage. However, at the same time, they often wonder why Greece itself does not adequately leverage this invaluable legacy to promote its language and classical education, elements that form an intrinsic part of its identity.
In China, I had the chance to witness how a country uses its classical tradition to shape and invest in its future. Chinese language and philosophy are promoted as classics, emphasizing ethics and collective responsibility. The establishment of a Chinese School of Classical Studies in Athens is a testament to this outward-looking approach. Similarly, in other European countries, classical studies have been adapted to meet contemporary needs, linking ancient languages with modern challenges such as artificial intelligence, leadership skills, and political thought.
In the United Kingdom, the teaching of classical languages has even been introduced into primary schools, as outlined in the National Curriculum for Languages at Key Stage 2. Since 2013, Ancient Greek and Latin have been treated as equals to modern languages, allowing schools to teach them instead of—or in addition to—languages like French and Spanish. Latin, in fact, has become the fourth most taught language in England’s primary schools! The Classics for All program trains primary school teachers to integrate classical languages in a hands-on, creative way, engaging children through myths, stories, and cultural narratives. The results are remarkable: students develop linguistic and cognitive skills while enhancing their imagination and critical thinking.
In contrast to the UK example, where classical studies are being reinforced and revitalized, classical high schools in Greece have been abolished, leaving a significant gap in education. As a result, students interested in pursuing this path are often limited to attending private tutoring centers, a uniquely Greek phenomenon that, unfortunately, falls short. The low grades achieved by students in related subjects in national exams clearly demonstrate that the knowledge acquired through tutoring is fragmented and insufficient.
Perhaps, at this stage, the reintroduction of fully autonomous classical high schools may seem like an abrupt and challenging reform for our educational system. However, a more realistic and immediately implementable proposal would be the creation of classical classes within existing high schools. In grades 10, 11, and 12, a dedicated class could focus intensively on subjects such as Ancient Greek, Latin, essay writing, literature, history, art, and philosophy.
This approach, which has been proposed and discussed over time by intellectuals across the political spectrum—both left and right—would offer students interested in deepening their knowledge of the humanities a more structured and focused framework without requiring a complete overhaul of the educational system.
I firmly believe that the revival of these studies is essential to provide children with a well-rounded education that enables them to delve into the humanities while preparing for the future. The knowledge offered by classical studies fosters skills indispensable in any profession: critical thinking, analytical ability, understanding human nature, and leadership capabilities. Especially in today’s world, where artificial intelligence and rapid societal changes demand broad perspectives, the value of these studies is irreplaceable.
In my opinion, Greece, the cradle of classical civilization, should not merely follow the example of other countries but lead the way in rekindling students’ interest in classical studies. If the reintroduction of classical high schools seems too difficult or sudden for now, the establishment of classical classes within existing high schools, with a more intensive focus on language, literature, history, philosophy, and the humanities, could serve as the first step in reconnecting students with the wealth of our classical heritage, without imposing any additional financial burden on the Greek state.
This model, both practical and realistic, provides our children with the opportunity to develop skills essential for the future: critical thinking, understanding human nature, analytical ability, and leadership qualities – traits characteristic of those who have a foundation in classical education. In an era full of challenges and uncertainties, the humanities offer a steady compass, teaching children the value of dialogue, self-awareness, patience, and collectivity. At the same time, they reinforce our national identity, connect us to our roots, and help us build a future enriched with knowledge, culture, and solidarity.
In recent days, the discussion surrounding the potential return of the Parthenon Marbles from the British Museum has once again highlighted the global respect and recognition that Greece enjoys as the cradle of civilization. This respect for our cultural heritage could serve as a catalyst for us to extend the same appreciation and focus to classical education. By strengthening the humanities and investing in our language and history, we honor our past while shaping citizens capable of facing the challenges of the future. Education is the cornerstone of a civilization, and Greece has every reason to lead this effort, proving that classical heritage belongs not only in our museums but also in our schools.
1.Il liceo classico insegna a diffidare del “tutto subito”, è il vero ascensore sociale