HELLENIC STUDIES Meaning and
Definition
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Hellenic studies is an interdisciplinary field of academic study that focuses on the civilization, history, language, literature, philosophy, art, and culture of ancient Greece. Derived from the Greek word "Hellene," meaning "Greek," Hellenic studies aims to comprehensively explore the ancient Greek civilization and its influence on the development of Western thought and society.
This field of study encompasses a wide range of subjects and disciplines, including ancient Greek history, archaeology, anthropology, linguistics, literary criticism, philosophy, and art history. Scholars and students of Hellenic studies delve into primary sources such as ancient texts, inscriptions, archaeological artifacts, and monuments to gain a comprehensive understanding of ancient Greek society and its contributions to various fields of knowledge.
Hellenic studies also seeks to examine the enduring legacy of ancient Greece in different aspects of human culture, such as language, literature, philosophy, political systems, and artistic expression. This allows researchers and enthusiasts to explore the ways in which Greek ideas, values, and aesthetics have influenced subsequent periods of history, including the Renaissance, Enlightenment, and modern era.
Studying Hellenic studies enables individuals to gain a deep appreciation and understanding of the ancient Greek civilization, shedding light on the origins of democratic governance, innovative philosophical ideas, timeless literary and poetic works, artistic achievements, and influential cultural practices. It helps illuminate the historical context and intellectual foundation upon which Western civilization has been built.
Etymology of HELLENIC STUDIES
The term "Hellenic Studies" refers to the academic discipline that focuses on the study of ancient Greece, its language, literature, history, art, and culture. The etymology of the term can be traced back to the word "Hellenes", which is the Greek term for the people of Greece.
The word "Hellenic" itself derives from the Greek word "Hellēnikos", which means "Greek" or "pertaining to Greece". It is derived from "Hellas", the ancient Greek term for Greece. The term "Hellenic" is commonly used to refer to anything related to ancient Greece, including language, culture, or historical periods.
So, "Hellenic Studies" is a term that developed to describe the scholarly field dedicated to the comprehensive study and understanding of ancient Greek civilization.
