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dimi_pat

Active member
I am setting my reading goals for 2024. I am adding some Greek books to my list! Here are some I may consider:

1. The Iliad by Homer – The Iliad is a masterpiece of epic poetry that narrates the events of the Trojan War.

2. The Odyssey by Homer – Considered one of the most influential works in Western literature, The Odyssey is a epical tale of journey and adventure.

3. Antigone by Sophocles – Antigone is a tragedy play that tells the story of a young woman who defies the king's orders and buries her brother.

4. The Republic by Plato – The Republic is a philosophical work of Plato that aims to explore the concept of justice, the ideal society, and the nature of the human soul.

5. Medea by Euripides – Medea is a tragedy play that tells the story of a woman who seeks revenge against her husband after he betrays her.

6. The Birds by Aristophanes – The Birds is a comedic play that explores the theme of human corruption.

7. The Clouds by Aristophanes – The Clouds is a comedic play that satirizes the Socrates' teachings and the intellectual vanity of his students.

8. The Aeneid by Virgil – The Aeneid is an epic poem that tells the story of Aeneas, a hero who travels to Italy to establish a new city.

9. Oedipus Rex by Sophocles – Oedipus Rex is a tragedy play that tells the story of Oedipus, a king who unknowingly kills his father and marries his mother.

10. The Symposium by Plato – The Symposium is a philosophical work that explores the theme of love and desire. It is a book that provides an insightful and nuanced perspective on the nature of romantic love.
 
All of these are pretty thick reads. If this were me, I would have trouble reading all of them in one year. I'd keep this list in mind but maybe commit to reading a handful rather than all of them, then if you get to the rest of them, it will be a pleasant surprise! Maybe some of them will be easy, though. How many books total do you want to read? I set my 2024 goal at 50 books - there's no way I'd be able to read all of the above and still meet my goal.
 
All of these are pretty thick reads. If this were me, I would have trouble reading all of them in one year. I'd keep this list in mind but maybe commit to reading a handful rather than all of them, then if you get to the rest of them, it will be a pleasant surprise! Maybe some of them will be easy, though. How many books total do you want to read? I set my 2024 goal at 50 books - there's no way I'd be able to read all of the above and still meet my goal.
I think you might be right. I have set a goal of 24 books - that's 2 books a month - and I think that I'll just choose a few of these. Thanks!
 

Thinking about the Greek way of hospitality...

I thought I would ask your thoughts oh Philoxenia - or the Greek way, or art, of hospitality. I noticed this when I travel in Greece. People are so kind, they often go out of the way for us, when I feel that they don't have to! How can one describe this to someone?

From what I understand, Philoxenia is not merely a practice but a deeply ingrained value within Greek culture that extends far beyond the simple act of hosting. It reflects a genuine, heartfelt welcome to strangers, treating them with the same respect and generosity one would show to a dearly beloved friend. This beautiful tradition, passed down through generations, turns the act of hosting into an art form, embodying warmth, respect, and a profound sense of human compassion. There have been so many stories I can think of...

This thought process was triggered because we were watching My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3 - someone in the village had taken on a Syrian refugee. Is this a Greek hospitality thing? Philoxenia?

Greek Wedding Traditions Roundup

I am helping someone plan her Greek wedding. I wanted to make a list of all the traditions we need to keep in time for the big day. Did I miss anything?

The Stolisma

The wedding day begins with the ritual of 'Stolisma,' where the bride and groom are prepared separately by their families. It's a moment filled with emotion, songs, and blessings, setting the tone for the day. I had honestly never heard of this. Do people still do it?

The Krevati

An amusing tradition is the 'Krevati' (bed making), where family and friends gather to decorate the couple's future bed with baby items, symbolizing fertility and a happy family life. Money is also often thrown on the bed for good luck and prosperity.

The Crowning (Stefana)

One of the most iconic rituals during the ceremony is the exchange of crowns or 'Stefana.' I believe they need to buy the crowns they want in advance?

Koufeta

No Greek wedding would be complete without 'Koufeta'—sugar-coated almonds given to guests as wedding favors. These bittersweet treats represent the ups and downs of married life and are shared in odd numbers to symbolize indivisibility and shared life.

Netflix Show about Alexander the Great

I just noticed there was a show about Alexander the Great on Netflix. How is it?

I have been noticing some buzz that it's fairly controversial, but those who are unhappy about it ... I can't tell if they actually know about him, or if they are just upset about how he was depicted.

I am trying to figure out if I want to watch it so your honest reviews are welcome.

I have studied Alexander the Great a little bit and no a bit about his life, so I am sincerely hoping it's worth my time. I am between shows at the moment.

Appropriate clothing for Holy Week services?

I was going to wear a floral dress to the service on Good Friday - I pretty much always do - and someone made a comment that they didn't think it's appropriate because it is a service of mourning.

You know, I guess that makes sense - but I haven't that much of it. What are your thoughts on it? I ended up choosing an outfit that looked a little more somber.

I am curious about the best things to wear through Holy Week! I am assuming the really spring-like colors are best on Pascha?

Advice about making Greek coffee

I've developed a fascination with Greek culture and cuisine, and one aspect I'm particularly eager to explore is Greek coffee. I've heard that it's a unique and delicious brew, but I'm not quite sure how to make it at home.

I understand that Greek coffee is traditionally prepared using a special pot called a briki, but beyond that, I'm a bit lost. What type of coffee grounds should I use, and how finely should they be ground? Are there any specific brands or blends that are favored for making Greek coffee?

I'm also curious about the brewing process itself. Is there a particular technique for achieving that rich, foamy texture that Greek coffee is known for? And what about serving suggestions? Are there any traditional accompaniments or customs that I should be aware of?

Thanks in advance!
Share and discuss Greek traditions related to Greek weddings, christenings, dance & holidays!

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