Isaac Newton’s Guide to Ancient Greek
by Eugenia Manolidou I just read the article about Isaac Newton and his unknown notes in Greek. Newton, known for his contributions to science, had the ability to record his observations in the Greek language, a fact that demonstrates the importance of knowledge of classical languages at the time (Proto Thema, 2024). This may impress […]
Koine Greek
The Language That Conquered the World
Our Method
Innovative Approaches to teaching Ancient Greek: The experiential Method of Elliniki Agogi Learning Ancient Greek is often perceived as an arduous task, especially when taught through methods emphasizing rote memorization and grammar rules. However, for modern Greek speakers, particularly elementary school students, the journey to mastering Hellenistic Koine Greek can be surprisingly intuitive and rewarding. […]
The Fragile Future of Timeless Texts – Defending the Classics Against Disruption
by Eugenia Manolidou I recently read an article about the University of Exeter’s decision to include trigger warnings for students studying Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey. These warnings alert students to potentially “distressing” themes like infant mortality, sexual violence, and warfare. While the intention may be to shield students from discomfort, it left me questioning whether […]
Eiresione and Ayermoi: Ancient Traditions in Modern Greece
by Eugenia Manolidou The Eiresione (εἰρεσιώνη), the ancient reference to the adorned olive branch, and the Ayermoi (ἀγερμοί), the roots of today’s Christmas carols (kalanta), are two vivid examples of the enduring continuity of Greek culture. The Eiresione symbolizes prosperity, community, and a connection with nature, while the Ayermoi are associated with the sung wishes […]
A Living Lesson in History: The Discovery of Constantine Palaiologos’ Portrait
The recent discovery of the unique in vivo portrait of Constantine XI Palaiologos, the last emperor of Byzantium, in the katholikon of the Old Monastery of the Archangels in Aigialeia is an event of global significance for Greek history and culture.
Classical Education: An Idea That Can Revitalize Education in Greece
Η επαναφορά της κλασικής παιδείας ως η βάση για ένα εκπαιδευτικό σύστημα που να συνδέει τη γλώσσα και την ιστορία με τις ανάγκες του σύγχρονου κόσμου, καθιστώντας έτσι την Ελλάδα πρωτοπόρο στην ενίσχυση των ανθρωπιστικών σπουδών.
Classical Studies of made of Silk
by Eugenia Manolidou The first World Congress of Classical Studies, held in Beijing from November 6 to 8, 2024, brought together professors and academics to discuss the relevance of ancient wisdom in a rapidly evolving world. However, beyond academic debates, the conference unveiled something deeper: China’s determination to establish its own classical identity. In the […]
The Urgent Need to Change the Methodology for Teaching Ancient Greek
By Eugenia Manolidou In his article on September 7, 2024, in the newspaper TA NEA titled “Should Ancient Greek be taught from middle school?” Professor Thanos Veremis raises a critical question: How can we strengthen the ties of the Greek language to its ancient sources? The professor emphasizes that Greek is the living thread connecting […]
Greek Lessons for … a Nobel Prize!
By Eugenia Manolidou The Nobel Prize in Literature is awarded each year to an author whose work has made a profound contribution to literature, encompassing writings that deeply resonate with readers and offer new perspectives on the human experience. Recently, the Swedish Academy honored Han Kang, a writer from South Korea, for her “intensely poetic […]