Join Dr David Mendelsohn for this four-part series exploring the profound and lasting influence of ancient Greek civilization on our modern world. From the birth of democracy in Athens to the philosophical insights of Socrates and Aristotle, each session traces the roots of contemporary thought, governance, and aesthetics to their classical origins—while also considering the significant influence and interaction Greece had with other cultures, including Egypt and the Near East. The series delves into the architectural elegance of temples and theaters, the moral and civic dimensions of Greek drama, and the enduring relevance of Greek philosophy as a guide to ethical living. Together, these sessions offer a rich tapestry of how ancient Greece, shaped both from within and through cross-cultural exchange, continues to define our political systems, artistic ideals, and cultural imagination.

Series outline: On August 7, we begin with “From Agora to Assembly: The Greek Invention of Democracy,” examining how Athenian politics shaped ideas of citizenship, debate, and modern governance. On August 14, “Vases, Statues, and Temples: How the Greeks Celebrated the Mundane and the Divine” brings Greek aesthetics to life through art, architecture, and public spaces. On August 21, “Think Like a Greek: Philosophy as a Way of Life” delves into the ethical teachings and intellectual revolutions of thinkers from Socrates to the Stoics. Finally, on August 28, “The Stage of Humanity: Greek Drama and the Birth of Storytelling” traces how epic poetry, tragedy, and comedy helped shape storytelling from Homer to Hollywood.