General information
Greek Linguistics: An introduction to the historical linguistics of Ancient, Medieval, and Post-Byzantine Greek (December 7-8, 2026)
The course aims to provide an overview of various methods of linguistic research applied to the Greek language, with an emphasis on diachronic and non-conventional perspectives. Students will be introduced to a range of approaches (e.g., discourse analysis, dialectology, metalinguistics, sociolinguistics, and semiotics) and to a wide variety of texts, from Greek literary and historical dialects to Late Antique and early Byzantine papyri, spanning authors from Homer to John Tzetzes and early modern Greek writers. The course combines short lectures with collective practical exercises led by the instructors. Participants are expected to have at least the ability to read Greek script and a basic familiarity with linguistic terminology. However, particular attention—especially during the hands-on sessions—will be given to adapting the activities to the diverse academic backgrounds and competencies of the participants.
Students will be required to read an article and complete an exercise (approximately 1 hour) in preparation for each of the lessons.
Information regarding the programme, venue, abstracts, and learning tools will be circulated on or after 15 October on this page.
Registration
To participate, students can register with Prof. Dr Klaas Bentein (klaas.bentein@ugent.be) or Prof. Dr Andrea Cuomo (andrea.cuomo@ugent.be). Please include in your email a short motivation, including your background, research interests, and why you would like to follow this course.
Students can register until October 31, 2026 at the latest.
Practical information
The course will take place at the Faculty of Arts & Philosophy (Blandijnberg 2, 9000 Gent), on December 7-8, 2026.
This course is organized in collaboration with OIKOS. There is limited sponsorship available for travel & accommodation for OIKOS students. Please consult the organizers to determine your eligibility.
The course is free of charge for everyone.
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Previous editions
Greek Linguistics: An introduction to the historical linguistics of Ancient and Medieval Greek (December 1-2, 2025)
Greek Linguistics: An introduction to the historical linguistics of Ancient and Medieval Greek (December 9-10, 2024)
The course aims to introduce students to key research questions in Greek linguistics, with a focus on historical, comparative, and sociolinguistic aspects. The classes offer a good balance between theoretical approaches (key theories are presented, and major publications are discussed) and hands-on practice through guided exercises. This structure ensures that students, regardless of their prior knowledge of Greek, can engage with and benefit from the lessons. Practical examples and exercises are designed to accommodate different levels of proficiency in Greek, offering tailored support to meet varying student needs.
Programme 2024
The programme can be downloaded here: Programme
Lecturers 2024
dr. Ezra la Roi
dr. Chiara Monaco
dr. David Pérez Moro
MA Michele Didoli & prof. Andrea Cuomo