A philhellinist refers to an individual who exhibits strong admiration, support, or affinity towards Greece, its cultural heritage, and its people. The term is derived from the combination of two words: "philos," meaning love or friendship, and "Hellas," the ancient name for Greece. The word reflects the deep appreciation that a philhellinist has for the rich history, traditions, arts, and literature of Greece.
Philhellinists are often motivated by a genuine fascination with Greek civilization and its contributions to various fields such as philosophy, democracy, literature, and the arts. They may possess an intense admiration for ancient Greek philosophers, poets, and playwrights like Socrates, Plato, Euripides, and Homer. Moreover, philhellinists are likely to support efforts to preserve and promote Greek cultural heritage, whether it involves organizing events, participating in study programs, or contributing to research.
Philhellinism has a long history, with notable examples including the Romantic movement of the 19th century, during which European intellectuals and artists expressed their fascination with Ancient Greece, its mythology, and its aesthetics. Philhellinists may also advocate for social causes within Greece or stand in solidarity with Greek people during historical and contemporary challenges.
While the term primarily refers to an individual's affinity towards Greece and its culture, it can also be used to describe associations, societies, or organizations that work towards promoting or preserving Greek culture and its global appreciation.
