The view from our rooftop.
Why study Ancient Greek in Florence, Italy?
Florence is the birthplace of Renaissance humanism where the study of ancient Greek flourished with an interplay of language, philosophy, mythology and art.
Locating our summer 2019 Introduction to Ancient Greek program in Florence, in the heart of the Italian Renaissance, gives Calder Classics students a perfect opportunity to understand how classical Greek thought and culture was “reborn” in Italy and continued to influence the life and art of the city up to modern times. Emulating scholars throughout the ages, our students dedicate a morning and/or an afternoon session each day to learning the basics of the ancient Greek language and reading excerpts from works by such authors as Homer, Plato and Aristotle.
View of the Arno from our window!
After reading and discussing ancient works in translation, our students look at Renaissance thinkers and artists who were inspired by Greek philosophers. The study of Plato is especially well visualized on the canvas of Florence through the artistic expression of Michelangelo.
This is our study room!!
Throughout our ancient Greek program, we introduce Greek mythology with an emphasis on themes that captivated the Renaissance masters. Greek myths come to life in the magnificent Renaissance artwork found throughout Florence allowing students to fuse their readings with visual representations. We explore these interpretive works in local museums, monasteries and public spaces. Students will take in the visual delights of Florence with their newfound Greek learning, which is guaranteed to enhance their experience and deepen their appreciation of the beautiful history of this wondrous city.
