Greek Palaeography Masterclass 2025

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This is a Greek palaeography masterclass ideal for students of Classics, Archaeology, Greek and ancient Greek language.

Have you studied the Greek alphabet, grammar and vocabulary, but found you're still unable to read the scribbles on papyri and manuscripts? Or that the letterforms of inscriptions on pots or stone are unfamiliar to you? The Greek language was used over millennia and its alphabet underwent many changes before the invention of the printing press. Today, students rarely learn to read ancient language from original texts but rather their transliterations, as original texts are often indecipherable without proper training in palaeography — the study of ancient writing styles.

This Masterclass will teach participants to recognise the most common and most baffling cursive forms, letter substitutions, abbreviations and annotations found throughout the history of Greek writing, with a focus on epigraphy.

During the Masterclass, participants will:

• Examine authentic texts from the Hellenic Museum collectionLearn about the history of the Greek alphabet and dating methods using palaeography
• Practice reading and writing on papyrus in various styles
• Receive guidance for further pursuit of palaeography

Come away with a base understanding of ancient and medieval writing styles — essential for truly engaging with Greek texts as primary sources — and the tools to continue your journey into palaeography.

Please note: this class assumes a basic familiarity with ancient Greek.