The Power of Speech in Times of Crisis

Calder Classics invites dedicated students to join us at Rome’s doorstep for this unique academic experience. We reside one-half hour outside Rome in a gracious villa near the ruins of Tusculum, Cicero’s favorite residence and retreat for study and literary work. Here, students of the Classics gather with their teachers to read famous orations in either Greek or Latin. Inspired by some of the greatest speeches of ancient times, we analyze the theory and practice of public speaking in antiquity and today.  

Over this ten-day program, works of the classical world become more vivid through their interconnection with modern rhetorical masterpieces and students’ engagement with the power of words. Our days are split between Greek or Latin readings and English rhetoric sessions in our residence, and visits to the Roman Forum and local archaeological sites. Influenced by their academic and cultural experience, students are given time and guidance to create their own speeches. Each portion of the course informs and builds on the other.

Master Greek or Latin Rhetoric

In Greek and Latin sessions, participants read, translate, and discuss Greek or Latin oratory in a interactive “salon” style environment. Students gain valuable sight-reading experience with such influential rhetorical geniuses as Demosthenese and Lysias for Greek students or Catullus and Cicero for Latin students. Given that participants join us from a variety of schools, we begin with a review of Greek or Latin grammar. We then analyze various poems and orations from both a grammatical and literary perspective, engaging in such topics as the significance of rhetorical devices, meter, and intertextuality. 

At least one year of reading original (or slightly adapted) Greek or Latin texts is required.

Analyze Rhetorical Masterpieces in English

Inspired by the power of ancient orations, students analyze masterful modern speeches in English, focusing on rhetoric delivered in times of societal, political, and moral crisis. 

In our rhetoric lessons, students explore a variety of modern speeches tracing their techniques back to the ancient masters of Greek and Latin oratory. We analyze the words of celebrated orators who provide assurance, direction, and moral guidance through dark days, and we examine speeches from today’s top thinkers wrestling with the crises of daily living. The readings give students an entry point to discuss rhetorical devices, structure, and the strategic use of language. Participants then develop and polish their own persuasive arguments using techniques gleaned from ancient and modern oratory. Each student receives peer and instructor feedback on their writing. The course culminates in a reading where each student shares a speech they have polished during the program.

Dive into Italy’s Art, Culture and History

During our time in Italy, we engage with local sites that are related thematically to, or directly inspired by, the literature we read together. Guided by local ancient historians, we explore the Forum in Rome, archaeological parks, and ancient venues where great speeches were written or delivered. Our discussions delve into the historical context and broader themes of the places we visit as well as their connection to the Greek and Latin curriculum.

Sample Daily Schedule

While the schedule will be flexible, the general plan is as follows:

9-10 AM          Group Breakfast

10-1PM           Greek/Latin Readings or Site Visits

1-3:00PM        Lunch and Break

3-6:00PM English Rhetoric or Site Visits

6-10:00PM     Dinner and Evening Activities

Accommodations

Our residence is in an elegant ten-bedroom villa nestled in the famed hills near Tusculum. Located a short one-half-hour drive from Rome by taxi or car the villa features two pools, a tennis court, a billiard room, and gracious reception areas where we gather to read, analyze our texts, and engage in conversation. With access to our own professional kitchen we cook, study, and relax together in a supportive and comfortable environment. 

All rooms are shared. Each student has their own single bed. There is a full laundry with washers and dryers.

Dates & Fees

July 5 to July 15, 2025

The $6,800 tuition includes accommodations, transportation within Italy, museum entries, instruction and course materials. Breakfast and dinner are also included; lunch is at students’ expense. Airfare is not included.

Application Deadline

Students are accepted on a rolling admissions basis while space is available. Please submit your application by the deadline of December 31 to receive priority consideration for this program. Applications received before December 31 will be reviewed as they are received and acceptances will be granted upon evaluation by our staff. Applications received after December 31 will be accepted if spots are still available.

Your application will be processed and you will receive a reply regarding your acceptance status within one to two weeks of your submission date provided that we have received your teacher reference.

Transportation

Students may choose to travel on the same flight as our staff on either or both legs of the journey between New York City and Rome. Calder Classics will arrange transportation between the Rome airport and the residence ONLY for those students who choose to travel on a flight with our staff, or who coordinate with our flight at arrival or departure. The details of the flight will be specified in advance. Students traveling by themselves must make their own connections to the residence. 

Our Scholars

Testimonials

"Thank you so much for organizing an amazing trip to Italy! Our son returned on Monday and told us that he really loved everything about it. He enjoyed everything he saw ... The trip definitely solidified his interest in Classics!”  Caroline S., parent

“I want to thank you for all you do for Calder Classics and kids who love language and history! We’re so happy we discovered you.
This was absolutely a highlight of the year for our daughter. She was fascinated daily, made friends for life, practiced independence abroad, ate new foods, learned a ton, and adored her wonderful teachers.” AG, parent

“The trip was absolutely amazing. … I’m so grateful to the program for such an opportunity because it definitely changed my life and perspective of languages. I’m( ..) now really interested in studying Italian as well as continuing my Latin.” Araba A., student

"Calder Classics gave me a unique opportunity to see the amazing ruins of ancient Rome guided by real experts and combined with excellent Latin instruction.  Seeing the Roman Forum, Temple of Victory, triumphal arches, and more made ancient Rome come alive for me and the other students.  I highly recommend this program." Thomas W., student

"The Calder Classics Program was the highlight of my summer vacation. I deepened my understanding of fundamental Latin concepts as well as more complex aspects of the language, gained an abundance of knowledge about Ancient Roman culture, and formed friendships and made memories that I will cherish forever. I cannot thank the Calder Classics Rome Program enough for my truly singular and incredibly memorable experience." Frances D.

Photos from Previous Trips