“THE HAPPINESS INDEX What David Cameron can learn from the Greeks and Romans A play by Sue Blundell Performed by David Acton “Overall, how happy did you feel yesterday?” Faced with this question in a government survey, John turns to a couple of ancient philosophers for advice. So what is happiness anyway? And how do you know when you’ve got it? By the end of the evening you should have a bet... »
By now it is twelve days since the protests started in the city of Athens. The message of the protesters was adopted by several other cities (Yiannena, Corfu, Patras, Larissa e.t.c.) while the number of people who wish to join seems to be on the rise. Apart from the usual shouting, chanting, marching and occupying public building, the meetings (surprisingly) include cultural activities. The other ... »
During the recent Greek protests we notice the extensive use of “faskelo” or “mountza”. This is an open palm gesture directed against the person you would like to insult. The protesters have been using it against the building of the parliament. See example here http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MrdWO02quAA/S_PdiKvySNI/AAAAAAAAR14/CO4Gt7krY4s/s1600/βουλη+μουντζα The origin of this g... »
This is a conference very close to my research interests. I would have liked to participate. Is anyone else going? “Call for Proposals – Annual Conference of the Metropolitan Library of Bucharest, Sinaia, Romania, 20-22 September 2011. Section IV c. WORKSHOP “Greek and Roman Armies in Northern Balkans : Conflicts and Integration of the Warrior Communities, Vth c. B.C.- IIId c. A.... »
“ANTIGONE By Sophocles Translated by Timberlake Wertenbaker Until 18th June at Southwark Playhouse, London A gripping new production of Antigone brings this ancient classic bang up-to-date as a direct response to the ongoing Arab Spring. With leaders across the Middle East struggling to suppress rebellion, Sophocles’ drama has a startling relevance in today’s world. Exclusive tic... »