Focus and Enjoy!
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. Our hope is that each learner gains an interest in exploring the Classical world even more.
We don't believe in 'dumbing down' our material so there's something for everyone, even adults. Workshops are therefore short courses on subjects that interest you or your learner. They do not have assigned academic requirements so there's nothing but enjoying the topic in store.
Each workshop topic consists of four 1-hour sessions. In the summer, classes meet four days in-a-row. All summer workshops will also be available by recording until August 23. You may view and review these recordings as many times as you please until then. The cost of each workshop covers roughly four hours of instruction. Workshops are the perfect accent to your own curriculum to spark the interest of younger learners or help older students focus on a particular subject. When planning your schedule, remember that all of the times listed are Eastern. Adjust for your time zone accordingly. Recommended ages: most workshops are appropriate for ages 10 through adult unless otherwise noted.
Please be aware: registration for participation in these workshops includes access to the recordings of the workshops ONLY for a limited time as published below.
All Workshops
College Application Essay-Writing Symposium
*special dates: June 10, 17, 24, plus continued instructor feedback, 11:30 am ET
This workshop is $69 due to plenty of instructor feedback. 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 4-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. Contact the instructor about the needing to miss any portion of this program. Instructor feedback concludes August 23, 2019.
Instructor -- Randee Baty
*special dates: June 10, 17, 24, plus continued instructor feedback, 11:30 am ET
This workshop is $69 due to plenty of instructor feedback. 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 4-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. Contact the instructor about the needing to miss any portion of this program. Instructor feedback concludes August 23, 2019.
Instructor -- Randee Baty
Summer 2019 June 10-13
Note: summer workshops may ALSO be attended by recording but access to these summer session recordings ends August 23, 2019.
Perfect Proportion: Classical Greek Art
While many ancient civilizations produced objects of breathtaking craftsmanship, who learned to copy human form and then create art for the sake of beauty? The Greeks, of course! This workshop will begin with the amazing sculpture of Bronze Age Cyclades, and then the development of sculpture through the Archaic smile, the perfection of fifth century figure, and the renaissance of art after Alexander the Great.
Regan Barr; June 10-13 at 9 am (or by recording only until August 23, 2019)
Knight Life: Tales of the Round Table
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 retellings 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!
We expect students of all ages for this class. Instructor -- Randee Baty June 10-13 at 9 am (or by recording only until August 23, 2019)
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. Come explore the food of the ancient Greeks and Romans and the fields and farms that produced it. Learn the importance of agriculture to these ancient civilizations and pick up a few recipes too. For those who enjoy cooking, gardening, ancient cultures, and eating, this workshop will provide everything from “eggs to apples.” We expect students of all ages for this class.
Instructor -- Sue Fisher June 10-13 at 10:15 am (or by recording only until August 23, 2019)
Mega Disasters of the Ancient World
Wouldn’t it be wonderful to take a film crew back in time to see what life was really like? The swift and utter destruction of a special few towns has granted the next best thing. For these sites the end came so quickly that bakers left bread in the oven, and families left dinner on the table! We tour Akrotiri, Pompeii, Villa San Marco, Boscoreale, and Herculaneum as we look at the phenomenal details preserved by murderous volcanic eruptions and tsunamis. Workshop on archaeology by an archaeologist. Amy Barr, June 10-13 at 10:15 am (or by recording only until August 23, 2019)
Right Ratio: Classical Greek Architecture
Anyone who has seen the most elegant buildings of our nation’s first century benefits from ancient Greek principles of detail, balance and ratio. This workshop unpacks the secrets behind the development of the architectural orders and the design principles behind Greek monumental architecture. Perfect workshop for anyone interested in architecture and engineering. Regan Barr, June 10-13 at 11:30 am (or by recording only until August 23, 2019)
Bizarre Ancient Languages and Alphabets
How did people first 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. Maybe create a new font, design a language or even learn a very ancient one! We expect students of all ages for this class. Amy Barr , June 10-13 at 1 PM (or by recording only until August 23, 2019)
Diseases, Dreams, and Dung: The Ancient Medical Arts
Would you thank your doctor with a statue of your fixed broken arm? Would you kiss a mule’s nose to get rid of a persistent bad smell in yours? Do you think dung should be a common medical tool? Probably not, but ancient Greeks and Romans did. Find out what other ridiculous or surprisingly savvy cures they used, as well as the theories they constructed that inspired them. Join us for a look at the handbooks of ancient doctors like Hippocrates, ancient healing centers, and stories in literature of plagues and magical herbs. Kelsie Stewart, June 10-13 at 1 PM (or by recording only until August 23, 2019)
Gandalf meets Grendel: a Study of First Epics
In this workshop, 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. Students should be 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 Note: Students should either complete this epic before starting the workshop or attempt to keep up with the reading during the 4-day course. We cover, roughly, a quarter of the epic each day. Instructor -- Randee Baty June 10-13 at 2:15 PM (or by recording only until August 23, 2019)
Imperial Murder Mystery
Join us for palace intrigue & conspiracy! If you thought it might be cool to rule your own empire, this might change your mind. Daggers, poisoned mushrooms, and peril around every corner, the halls of Rome's imperial palaces were not for the faint of heart. From the lifetime dictatorship of Julius Caesar through the first century of the Roman Empire, few emperors died of natural causes. Get caught up in the mystery. Truth is stranger than fiction, and learn 150 years of Roman history along the way! Adviso: workshop covers the assassination of emperors
Instructor -- Regan Barr June 10-13 at 2:15 PM (or by recording only until August 23, 2019)
Vase Painters & Storytellers
If you've ever spent time in a good museum looking at Greek and Roman pots, you know that vase painters not only painted beautifully, but they also told stories with their art. Learn how the pots were created and then go on to hear the tales they had to tell! Get ready to see some beautiful art and be prepared to decode ancient pots with skill. We expect students of all ages for this class.
Instructor -- Sue Fisher June 10-13 at 3:30 PM (or by recording only until August 23, 2019)
Troy: Horses, Heroes, History
Maybe you’ve heard of the Trojan horse, the Iliad or even the Odyssey - but did you know that Troy was real? 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. This class is taught by an archaeologist that worked at Troy! Amy Barr , June 10-13 at 3:30 PM (or by recording only until August 23, 2019)
The First War: Homer’s Iliad
Of all ancient stories, no title is more recognizable than Homer’s Iliad. It is essential to understanding the national identity of both ancient Greeks & Romans. This well-illustrated workshop will place Achilles and his fellow-warriors in their context by filling in the gaps with the info that Homer assumed you already know. We’ll investigate the site of Troy plus geographical & cultural context plus the themes that make it relevant today. Recommended for rising AP Latin 4 students. Students should acquire and read the Lombardo translation in preparation. Adviso: workshop covers warfare themes and some romance.
Required text: Homer, Iliad, Stanley Lombardo, trans. [this version is strongly recommended].
Note: Students should completely read the Iliad during this workshop. We cover, roughly, a quarter of the epic each day. Students should ready the first 8 books before viewing the first session.
Instructor -- Amy Barr -- by recording only until August 23, 2019
Of Men and Monsters: Homer’s Odyssey
One of the first recorded adventure stories was written so well that modern readers include 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. Especially recommended for rising AP Latin IV students who don't plan to take our Mythology courses. Required text: Homer, Odyssey, Stanley Lombardo, trans. [this version is strongly recommended].
Note: Students should completely read the Odyssey during this workshop. We cover, roughly, a quarter of the epic each day. Students should ready the first 8 books before viewing the first session.
Instructor -- Amy Barr --by recording only until August 23, 2019
Art of Greek Warfare
Remarkably, the ancient Greeks seemed to define themselves by conflict, though only the Spartans truly developed a standing professional army prior to the rise of Macedonia. Nevertheless, they stopped the advance of the mighty Persian Empire and tutored the Romans in the art of warfare. This illustrated workshop begins with what we know of warfare in Bronze Age Greece and continues through the siege warfare of the Hellenistic period. Along the way we investigate arms and armor, battle tactics and defining conflicts in Greek history. Adviso: workshop covers warfare themes.
Instructor -- Regan Barr --by recording only until August 23, 2019
Art of Roman Warfare
When Athens was at the height of its power and influence, Rome was a still just a struggling village. Several centuries later Rome had transformed itself from backwater town to ruler of an empire stretching from the Persian Gulf, to the farthest reaches of Spain and the island of Britain. Learn how a citizen militia became the most formidable and successful army in the Mediterranean. Look at personalities, organizational developments, technical advancements, and turning-point battles. Adviso: workshop covers warfare themes
Instructor -- Regan Barr --by recording only until August 23, 2019
Perfect Proportion: Classical Greek Art
While many ancient civilizations produced objects of breathtaking craftsmanship, who learned to copy human form and then create art for the sake of beauty? The Greeks, of course! This workshop will begin with the amazing sculpture of Bronze Age Cyclades, and then the development of sculpture through the Archaic smile, the perfection of fifth century figure, and the renaissance of art after Alexander the Great.
Regan Barr; June 10-13 at 9 am (or by recording only until August 23, 2019)
Knight Life: Tales of the Round Table
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 retellings 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!
We expect students of all ages for this class. Instructor -- Randee Baty June 10-13 at 9 am (or by recording only until August 23, 2019)
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. Come explore the food of the ancient Greeks and Romans and the fields and farms that produced it. Learn the importance of agriculture to these ancient civilizations and pick up a few recipes too. For those who enjoy cooking, gardening, ancient cultures, and eating, this workshop will provide everything from “eggs to apples.” We expect students of all ages for this class.
Instructor -- Sue Fisher June 10-13 at 10:15 am (or by recording only until August 23, 2019)
Mega Disasters of the Ancient World
Wouldn’t it be wonderful to take a film crew back in time to see what life was really like? The swift and utter destruction of a special few towns has granted the next best thing. For these sites the end came so quickly that bakers left bread in the oven, and families left dinner on the table! We tour Akrotiri, Pompeii, Villa San Marco, Boscoreale, and Herculaneum as we look at the phenomenal details preserved by murderous volcanic eruptions and tsunamis. Workshop on archaeology by an archaeologist. Amy Barr, June 10-13 at 10:15 am (or by recording only until August 23, 2019)
Right Ratio: Classical Greek Architecture
Anyone who has seen the most elegant buildings of our nation’s first century benefits from ancient Greek principles of detail, balance and ratio. This workshop unpacks the secrets behind the development of the architectural orders and the design principles behind Greek monumental architecture. Perfect workshop for anyone interested in architecture and engineering. Regan Barr, June 10-13 at 11:30 am (or by recording only until August 23, 2019)
Bizarre Ancient Languages and Alphabets
How did people first 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. Maybe create a new font, design a language or even learn a very ancient one! We expect students of all ages for this class. Amy Barr , June 10-13 at 1 PM (or by recording only until August 23, 2019)
Diseases, Dreams, and Dung: The Ancient Medical Arts
Would you thank your doctor with a statue of your fixed broken arm? Would you kiss a mule’s nose to get rid of a persistent bad smell in yours? Do you think dung should be a common medical tool? Probably not, but ancient Greeks and Romans did. Find out what other ridiculous or surprisingly savvy cures they used, as well as the theories they constructed that inspired them. Join us for a look at the handbooks of ancient doctors like Hippocrates, ancient healing centers, and stories in literature of plagues and magical herbs. Kelsie Stewart, June 10-13 at 1 PM (or by recording only until August 23, 2019)
Gandalf meets Grendel: a Study of First Epics
In this workshop, 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. Students should be 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 Note: Students should either complete this epic before starting the workshop or attempt to keep up with the reading during the 4-day course. We cover, roughly, a quarter of the epic each day. Instructor -- Randee Baty June 10-13 at 2:15 PM (or by recording only until August 23, 2019)
Imperial Murder Mystery
Join us for palace intrigue & conspiracy! If you thought it might be cool to rule your own empire, this might change your mind. Daggers, poisoned mushrooms, and peril around every corner, the halls of Rome's imperial palaces were not for the faint of heart. From the lifetime dictatorship of Julius Caesar through the first century of the Roman Empire, few emperors died of natural causes. Get caught up in the mystery. Truth is stranger than fiction, and learn 150 years of Roman history along the way! Adviso: workshop covers the assassination of emperors
Instructor -- Regan Barr June 10-13 at 2:15 PM (or by recording only until August 23, 2019)
Vase Painters & Storytellers
If you've ever spent time in a good museum looking at Greek and Roman pots, you know that vase painters not only painted beautifully, but they also told stories with their art. Learn how the pots were created and then go on to hear the tales they had to tell! Get ready to see some beautiful art and be prepared to decode ancient pots with skill. We expect students of all ages for this class.
Instructor -- Sue Fisher June 10-13 at 3:30 PM (or by recording only until August 23, 2019)
Troy: Horses, Heroes, History
Maybe you’ve heard of the Trojan horse, the Iliad or even the Odyssey - but did you know that Troy was real? 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. This class is taught by an archaeologist that worked at Troy! Amy Barr , June 10-13 at 3:30 PM (or by recording only until August 23, 2019)
The First War: Homer’s Iliad
Of all ancient stories, no title is more recognizable than Homer’s Iliad. It is essential to understanding the national identity of both ancient Greeks & Romans. This well-illustrated workshop will place Achilles and his fellow-warriors in their context by filling in the gaps with the info that Homer assumed you already know. We’ll investigate the site of Troy plus geographical & cultural context plus the themes that make it relevant today. Recommended for rising AP Latin 4 students. Students should acquire and read the Lombardo translation in preparation. Adviso: workshop covers warfare themes and some romance.
Required text: Homer, Iliad, Stanley Lombardo, trans. [this version is strongly recommended].
Note: Students should completely read the Iliad during this workshop. We cover, roughly, a quarter of the epic each day. Students should ready the first 8 books before viewing the first session.
Instructor -- Amy Barr -- by recording only until August 23, 2019
Of Men and Monsters: Homer’s Odyssey
One of the first recorded adventure stories was written so well that modern readers include 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. Especially recommended for rising AP Latin IV students who don't plan to take our Mythology courses. Required text: Homer, Odyssey, Stanley Lombardo, trans. [this version is strongly recommended].
Note: Students should completely read the Odyssey during this workshop. We cover, roughly, a quarter of the epic each day. Students should ready the first 8 books before viewing the first session.
Instructor -- Amy Barr --by recording only until August 23, 2019
Art of Greek Warfare
Remarkably, the ancient Greeks seemed to define themselves by conflict, though only the Spartans truly developed a standing professional army prior to the rise of Macedonia. Nevertheless, they stopped the advance of the mighty Persian Empire and tutored the Romans in the art of warfare. This illustrated workshop begins with what we know of warfare in Bronze Age Greece and continues through the siege warfare of the Hellenistic period. Along the way we investigate arms and armor, battle tactics and defining conflicts in Greek history. Adviso: workshop covers warfare themes.
Instructor -- Regan Barr --by recording only until August 23, 2019
Art of Roman Warfare
When Athens was at the height of its power and influence, Rome was a still just a struggling village. Several centuries later Rome had transformed itself from backwater town to ruler of an empire stretching from the Persian Gulf, to the farthest reaches of Spain and the island of Britain. Learn how a citizen militia became the most formidable and successful army in the Mediterranean. Look at personalities, organizational developments, technical advancements, and turning-point battles. Adviso: workshop covers warfare themes
Instructor -- Regan Barr --by recording only until August 23, 2019
Autumn 2019
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 15, 2019.
*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 15, 2019.
Spring 2020
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 15, 2020.
*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 15, 2020.