Time to Focus and Enjoy without Assignments with Workshops
Special Note: Summer workshops --except for self-paced language review--are ON HIATUS for the Summer 2025 schedule. We'll be back in the summer 2026
Workshops at the Lukeion Project are specially designed to ignite an interest in the ancient world or fan the flames for an already avid Classics buff. Each session is full of the interesting stuff that makes history, art, architecture, or archaeology come to life. If learners have questions, we answer them live and on the spot. After each session, learners may visit the class web page to play specially designed review games, follow links to museum or excavations sites, or read pertinent news stories or additional primary texts.
We don't believe in 'dumbing down' our material so there's something for everyone, even adults, in all sessions. Workshops are short courses on subjects that interest you or your learner. There are no assigned academic requirements so enjoy the topic in store.
"We have studied the website for years, finally pulled the trigger on the History of Greek Warfare workshop this past summer, and it turned into a highlight of my son's young life so far. Noah can't wait to take anything Regan Barr teaches."
Workshops at the Lukeion Project are specially designed to ignite an interest in the ancient world or fan the flames for an already avid Classics buff. Each session is full of the interesting stuff that makes history, art, architecture, or archaeology come to life. If learners have questions, we answer them live and on the spot. After each session, learners may visit the class web page to play specially designed review games, follow links to museum or excavations sites, or read pertinent news stories or additional primary texts.
We don't believe in 'dumbing down' our material so there's something for everyone, even adults, in all sessions. Workshops are short courses on subjects that interest you or your learner. There are no assigned academic requirements so enjoy the topic in store.
"We have studied the website for years, finally pulled the trigger on the History of Greek Warfare workshop this past summer, and it turned into a highlight of my son's young life so far. Noah can't wait to take anything Regan Barr teaches."
Special Offerings
College Application Essay-Writing Symposium
This workshop is $75 due to plenty of instructor feedback on essays. We will walk you through the process of writing that scary college application essay. Find out what admissions officers really want and get your essay finished during our special 3-sessions! We’ll start with a rough draft and help you finish a well-crafted essay with 2 rounds of feedback while we cover essential college success skills and a hearty dose of encouragement towards excellence. This symposium is meant to be attended live and includes instructor feedback and guidance on the essay (the limit to which will be stated by instructor in class). Contact the instructor in advance if you will need to miss any portion of this program.
Instructor -- Randee Baty
This workshop is $75 due to plenty of instructor feedback on essays. We will walk you through the process of writing that scary college application essay. Find out what admissions officers really want and get your essay finished during our special 3-sessions! We’ll start with a rough draft and help you finish a well-crafted essay with 2 rounds of feedback while we cover essential college success skills and a hearty dose of encouragement towards excellence. This symposium is meant to be attended live and includes instructor feedback and guidance on the essay (the limit to which will be stated by instructor in class). Contact the instructor in advance if you will need to miss any portion of this program.
Instructor -- Randee Baty
Self-paced Summer Review Programs for Greek & Latin
Latin Review for Rising Latin 2 - A. Barr
Get ready for second year Latin! Review Wheelock's Latin, chapters 1-19 with chapter-linked translations assigned from the text 38 Latin Stories, 5th ed (purchase this text--ISBN 978-0-86516-289-1). Students set their own pace as they translate 17 short passages; review the associated chapter, vocabulary, grammar, and forms throughout the summer; and finally view recordings of the translations in action.
Latin Review for Rising Latin 3 - A. Barr
Get ready for third year Latin! Review Wheelock's Latin, chapters 20-40 with chapter-linked translations assigned from the text 38 Latin Stories, 5th ed (purchase this text--ISBN 978-0-86516-289-1). Students set their own pace as they translate 21 short passages; review the associated chapter, vocabulary, grammar, and forms throughout the summer; and finally view recordings of the translations in action.
Students who have taken a *longer* hiatus from Latin than usual or who completed a non-grammar focused Latin program elsewhere should consider taking both review programs during the summer prior to Latin 3.
Greek Review for Rising Greek 2-R. Barr
Get ready for second year Greek! Review Athenaze Book 1 with chapter-linked translations assigned from the text WORKBOOK, Athenaze Book 1 (purchase this text--ISBN 978-0190607685). Students set their own pace as they translate 16 short passages and review the associated chapter, vocabulary, grammar, and forms throughout the summer. After each segment, students will view recordings of the translations in action.
Greek Review for Rising Greek 3-R. Barr
Get ready for third year Greek! Review Athenaze Book 2 with chapter-linked translations assigned from the text WORKBOOK, Athenaze Book 2 (purchase this text--ISBN 978-0190607692). Students set their own pace as they translate 32 short passages and review the associated chapter, vocabulary, grammar, and forms throughout the summer. After each segment, students will view recordings of the translations in action.
Students who have taken a *longer* hiatus from Greek than usual should consider taking both review programs during the summer prior to Greek 3.
First War: Homer’s Iliad
Of the many stories generated by the epic Trojan War, no title is more recognizable than Homer’s Iliad. It’s absolutely essential to understanding the national identity of both the ancient Greeks and Romans. But did you know that it doesn’t include the whole Trojan story? This illustrated workshop will place Achilles and his fellow-warriors firmly in their context by filling in the gaps with the info that Homer assumed you already know. We’ll investigate the site, the foundational story-lines that Homer leaves out, the geographical and cultural context, and the themes that make this epic still relevant to modern readers. Since sessions are by recording, read 1/4 of the book prior to viewing each recording. -A. Barr
Of Men & Monsters: Homer’s Odyssey
This is one of the first recorded adventure stories, but it’s written so well that modern readers still put it on their favorites list. Clashing rocks, one-eyed man-eating monsters, evil villains and undying love – it has something for everyone. You’ll be surprised at the number of literary, artistic and cultural allusions that have been inspired by the Odyssey – they’re all around you! This illustrated workshop will help you better understand the great work by including discussions from archaeology, geography, and related literature that all illuminate this masterpiece of Greek literature. Since sessions are by recording, read 1/4 of the book prior to viewing each recording. -A. Barr
Get ready for second year Latin! Review Wheelock's Latin, chapters 1-19 with chapter-linked translations assigned from the text 38 Latin Stories, 5th ed (purchase this text--ISBN 978-0-86516-289-1). Students set their own pace as they translate 17 short passages; review the associated chapter, vocabulary, grammar, and forms throughout the summer; and finally view recordings of the translations in action.
Latin Review for Rising Latin 3 - A. Barr
Get ready for third year Latin! Review Wheelock's Latin, chapters 20-40 with chapter-linked translations assigned from the text 38 Latin Stories, 5th ed (purchase this text--ISBN 978-0-86516-289-1). Students set their own pace as they translate 21 short passages; review the associated chapter, vocabulary, grammar, and forms throughout the summer; and finally view recordings of the translations in action.
Students who have taken a *longer* hiatus from Latin than usual or who completed a non-grammar focused Latin program elsewhere should consider taking both review programs during the summer prior to Latin 3.
Greek Review for Rising Greek 2-R. Barr
Get ready for second year Greek! Review Athenaze Book 1 with chapter-linked translations assigned from the text WORKBOOK, Athenaze Book 1 (purchase this text--ISBN 978-0190607685). Students set their own pace as they translate 16 short passages and review the associated chapter, vocabulary, grammar, and forms throughout the summer. After each segment, students will view recordings of the translations in action.
Greek Review for Rising Greek 3-R. Barr
Get ready for third year Greek! Review Athenaze Book 2 with chapter-linked translations assigned from the text WORKBOOK, Athenaze Book 2 (purchase this text--ISBN 978-0190607692). Students set their own pace as they translate 32 short passages and review the associated chapter, vocabulary, grammar, and forms throughout the summer. After each segment, students will view recordings of the translations in action.
Students who have taken a *longer* hiatus from Greek than usual should consider taking both review programs during the summer prior to Greek 3.
First War: Homer’s Iliad
Of the many stories generated by the epic Trojan War, no title is more recognizable than Homer’s Iliad. It’s absolutely essential to understanding the national identity of both the ancient Greeks and Romans. But did you know that it doesn’t include the whole Trojan story? This illustrated workshop will place Achilles and his fellow-warriors firmly in their context by filling in the gaps with the info that Homer assumed you already know. We’ll investigate the site, the foundational story-lines that Homer leaves out, the geographical and cultural context, and the themes that make this epic still relevant to modern readers. Since sessions are by recording, read 1/4 of the book prior to viewing each recording. -A. Barr
Of Men & Monsters: Homer’s Odyssey
This is one of the first recorded adventure stories, but it’s written so well that modern readers still put it on their favorites list. Clashing rocks, one-eyed man-eating monsters, evil villains and undying love – it has something for everyone. You’ll be surprised at the number of literary, artistic and cultural allusions that have been inspired by the Odyssey – they’re all around you! This illustrated workshop will help you better understand the great work by including discussions from archaeology, geography, and related literature that all illuminate this masterpiece of Greek literature. Since sessions are by recording, read 1/4 of the book prior to viewing each recording. -A. Barr
Live Workshop Week: will return summer 2026
Ancient Mega Disasters - Swift and utter destruction of a special few towns has granted a real look at the ancient world. Look at sites where the end was a moment frozen in time. Tour Akrotiri, Pompeii, Villa San Marco, Boscoreale, Herculaneum, and more, as we examine the phenomenal details preserved by murderous volcanic eruptions and tsunamis. -A. Barr
Classical Skies: Constellation Mythology & How the Ancients Used the Stars - Gaze at the night sky and see the same stars that the Greeks and Romans saw. Learn the stories of the constellations and how the ancient people used the stars for everything from calendars and farming to seafaring and even the world’s first analog computer. You’ll never look at the sky quite the same way again! - Dr. S. Fisher
Marvels of Roman Engineering From the most extensive road system across three continents, to immense enclosed spaces, to the most elaborate water works of the ancient world, it was the Romans who perfected many of the conveniences and constructions that we take for granted today. Many of her best constructions are still standing! Find out how and why --R. Barr
Gandalf meets Grendel: a Study of First Epics - Avid readers will learn how Beowulf, the first great epic in English borrowed Homer’s epic elements while inspiring Tolkien’s creation of his own great epic, The Hobbit. Best if students are a little familiar with The Hobbit and Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey while enjoying this fascinating study of Beowulf. Required text: The Anglo-Saxon World: An Anthology. Complete this epic before starting or attempt to keep up with the reading during the 4-day course. --R. Baty
Puzzling games & Playful Puzzles - Puzzles and games have provided amusement and education for people from all times and places. Join us as we solve puzzles and play some games together. We’ll also learn where they come from and how they are connected. All new puzzles for 2024! Dr. --K. Johnson
Greek Pottery Pro - Come and learn the importance of pottery to the ancient Greeks and to archaeologists today. Using the lingo of the pottery analyst, we will explore how pots were made and used, and the key shapes and styles of Greek pottery from c. 6000 B.C. through the early 4th century. Students will also learn how to interpret vase iconography for a unique window into Greek mythology, athletics, theater, and every-day life. Spark or round out your knowledge of the Classical world by becoming a Greek Pottery Pro.--S. Fisher
Chronicles of Rome: a Day, Month, Year, and Life of an Ancient Roman This workshop will cover how an Ancient Roman would mark and celebrate the passage of time. We will explore the intricacies of the Roman calendar and its extensive list of public religious festivals plus we will take a look at Romans in their private life. How did they celebrate weddings, funerals, and other family rituals? What work was required on a daily basis just to keep track of time in a world without digital clocks? Discover this, and so much more! --K. Powell
Bizarre Ancient Alphabets and Writing Systems How did people first all agree on an alphabet and then learn to read and write it? This class will show you some of the first written words and some of the weird writing systems that developed in the ancient world. We’ll examine the mysteries, alphabets and ideas behind Linear A, Linear B, Cuneiform, Hieroglyphics, Greek, Hebrew and many more. You may be inspired to create a new font, design your own language or even learn a very ancient one! -A. Barr
Imperial Murder Mystery Roman palace intrigue & conspiracy! Daggers, poisoned mushrooms, and peril around every corner! The halls of imperial palaces were not for the faint of heart. From Julius Caesar through the first century of the Roman Empire, few emperors died of natural causes. Sleuth whodunnit! --R. Barr
Knight Life Who was King Arthur? We will briefly discuss the historical evidence, (was he an ally of the Romans before they left Britain?) and then concentrate on the traditional King Arthur legends. Expect to spend some time on the modern re-tellings such as The Dark is Rising. Finally, we will also talk about how King Arthur legends influence modern literature and society. Expect knights in shining armor and damsels in distress!--R. Baty
Mind-bending Math - Mathematics has been called “the most beautiful and powerful creation of the human spirit.” Explore elements of this beautiful and powerful subject that most students do not see until they get to upper level college courses. We’ll investigate these at a level accessible to middle school students..--K. Johnson
The Archaeology of the Trojan War - Maybe you’ve heard of the Trojan horse, the Iliad or even the Odyssey - but did you know that Troy was a real city? Archaeologists have proven that it was a well-fortified prosperous city that was so important in the ancient world that several modern nations still claim it as their founding city. Check out the myth and the reality of this 5000-year-old city (taught by an archaeologist that worked there!) -A. Barr
Fruitful Fields, Fabulous Feasts - From the simplest street foods of Pompeii to the elaborate delicacies of a Greek symposium, food fueled the poets and kept the centurions marching. Explore the food of the ancient Greeks and Romans as well as the fields and farms that produced it, plus pick up a few recipes.--S. Fisher
Theater of War When men fought wars hand-to-hand and eye-to-eye, the Greeks and Romans sometimes got creative to ensure victory. Flying men, ambushes, the first hand-grenades, miles of walls, and bridges appearing overnight? Hear about the original shock & awe campaigns!--R. Barr
Classical Skies: Constellation Mythology & How the Ancients Used the Stars - Gaze at the night sky and see the same stars that the Greeks and Romans saw. Learn the stories of the constellations and how the ancient people used the stars for everything from calendars and farming to seafaring and even the world’s first analog computer. You’ll never look at the sky quite the same way again! - Dr. S. Fisher
Marvels of Roman Engineering From the most extensive road system across three continents, to immense enclosed spaces, to the most elaborate water works of the ancient world, it was the Romans who perfected many of the conveniences and constructions that we take for granted today. Many of her best constructions are still standing! Find out how and why --R. Barr
Gandalf meets Grendel: a Study of First Epics - Avid readers will learn how Beowulf, the first great epic in English borrowed Homer’s epic elements while inspiring Tolkien’s creation of his own great epic, The Hobbit. Best if students are a little familiar with The Hobbit and Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey while enjoying this fascinating study of Beowulf. Required text: The Anglo-Saxon World: An Anthology. Complete this epic before starting or attempt to keep up with the reading during the 4-day course. --R. Baty
Puzzling games & Playful Puzzles - Puzzles and games have provided amusement and education for people from all times and places. Join us as we solve puzzles and play some games together. We’ll also learn where they come from and how they are connected. All new puzzles for 2024! Dr. --K. Johnson
Greek Pottery Pro - Come and learn the importance of pottery to the ancient Greeks and to archaeologists today. Using the lingo of the pottery analyst, we will explore how pots were made and used, and the key shapes and styles of Greek pottery from c. 6000 B.C. through the early 4th century. Students will also learn how to interpret vase iconography for a unique window into Greek mythology, athletics, theater, and every-day life. Spark or round out your knowledge of the Classical world by becoming a Greek Pottery Pro.--S. Fisher
Chronicles of Rome: a Day, Month, Year, and Life of an Ancient Roman This workshop will cover how an Ancient Roman would mark and celebrate the passage of time. We will explore the intricacies of the Roman calendar and its extensive list of public religious festivals plus we will take a look at Romans in their private life. How did they celebrate weddings, funerals, and other family rituals? What work was required on a daily basis just to keep track of time in a world without digital clocks? Discover this, and so much more! --K. Powell
Bizarre Ancient Alphabets and Writing Systems How did people first all agree on an alphabet and then learn to read and write it? This class will show you some of the first written words and some of the weird writing systems that developed in the ancient world. We’ll examine the mysteries, alphabets and ideas behind Linear A, Linear B, Cuneiform, Hieroglyphics, Greek, Hebrew and many more. You may be inspired to create a new font, design your own language or even learn a very ancient one! -A. Barr
Imperial Murder Mystery Roman palace intrigue & conspiracy! Daggers, poisoned mushrooms, and peril around every corner! The halls of imperial palaces were not for the faint of heart. From Julius Caesar through the first century of the Roman Empire, few emperors died of natural causes. Sleuth whodunnit! --R. Barr
Knight Life Who was King Arthur? We will briefly discuss the historical evidence, (was he an ally of the Romans before they left Britain?) and then concentrate on the traditional King Arthur legends. Expect to spend some time on the modern re-tellings such as The Dark is Rising. Finally, we will also talk about how King Arthur legends influence modern literature and society. Expect knights in shining armor and damsels in distress!--R. Baty
Mind-bending Math - Mathematics has been called “the most beautiful and powerful creation of the human spirit.” Explore elements of this beautiful and powerful subject that most students do not see until they get to upper level college courses. We’ll investigate these at a level accessible to middle school students..--K. Johnson
The Archaeology of the Trojan War - Maybe you’ve heard of the Trojan horse, the Iliad or even the Odyssey - but did you know that Troy was a real city? Archaeologists have proven that it was a well-fortified prosperous city that was so important in the ancient world that several modern nations still claim it as their founding city. Check out the myth and the reality of this 5000-year-old city (taught by an archaeologist that worked there!) -A. Barr
Fruitful Fields, Fabulous Feasts - From the simplest street foods of Pompeii to the elaborate delicacies of a Greek symposium, food fueled the poets and kept the centurions marching. Explore the food of the ancient Greeks and Romans as well as the fields and farms that produced it, plus pick up a few recipes.--S. Fisher
Theater of War When men fought wars hand-to-hand and eye-to-eye, the Greeks and Romans sometimes got creative to ensure victory. Flying men, ambushes, the first hand-grenades, miles of walls, and bridges appearing overnight? Hear about the original shock & awe campaigns!--R. Barr
Autumn 2025
Meet the Greeks - recording only, autumn semester
*Available mid-September-December 1. The Greeks were one of the most influential cultures in the development of western civilization. Many inventions & innovations that we think of as "Roman" were actually discovered by the Greeks first. After Alexander, many parts of Greek culture were spread from India to Spain, from Egypt to Great Britain. You'll be surprised how much began among these creative people! Workshop includes art, culture, history & society. Perfect introduction for anyone studying the Greek language. Working on World History? This is much better than the few pages you’ll find in your textbook. We expect students of all ages for this class. Those who register for this workshop have access ONLY until December 1, 2025.
*Available mid-September-December 1. The Greeks were one of the most influential cultures in the development of western civilization. Many inventions & innovations that we think of as "Roman" were actually discovered by the Greeks first. After Alexander, many parts of Greek culture were spread from India to Spain, from Egypt to Great Britain. You'll be surprised how much began among these creative people! Workshop includes art, culture, history & society. Perfect introduction for anyone studying the Greek language. Working on World History? This is much better than the few pages you’ll find in your textbook. We expect students of all ages for this class. Those who register for this workshop have access ONLY until December 1, 2025.
Spring 2026
Meet the Romans - recording only, spring semester
*Available mid-February-May 1. The Romans had a profound influence on western society in architecture, politics, art, city planning, legal matters, warfare and more. This workshop is a great introduction to the Romans or a fun refresher for those who just love the ancient world. Great for those studying Latin and cultural topics from the National Latin Exam. We include the founding myths, early history, Republican political institutions, transformation to empire, what Romans wore, their homes, engineering and more. We expect students of all ages for this class. Those who register for this workshop have access ONLY until May 1, 2026.
*Available mid-February-May 1. The Romans had a profound influence on western society in architecture, politics, art, city planning, legal matters, warfare and more. This workshop is a great introduction to the Romans or a fun refresher for those who just love the ancient world. Great for those studying Latin and cultural topics from the National Latin Exam. We include the founding myths, early history, Republican political institutions, transformation to empire, what Romans wore, their homes, engineering and more. We expect students of all ages for this class. Those who register for this workshop have access ONLY until May 1, 2026.