An evening of intellectual enrichment awaits at the Greek Centre, Melbourne, on August 17, featuring engaging lectures on the Greek Civil War in modern Greek prose and the remarkable life of Pyrrhus, the Western Alexander.
A pair of thought-provoking lectures as part of their ongoing Greek History and Culture Seminars, will provide attendees with an opportunity to delve into two captivating topics.
Beginning at 6pm, Dr Michail Bakoyiannis, a distinguished scholar from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and a visiting academic at La Trobe University’s Greek Studies program, will present the first lecture titled ‘Greece; a crucified body (George Seferis): The Greek Civil War (1946-1949) in Modern Greek prose’.
Dr Bakoyiannis’ lecture aims to explore how the Greek Civil War has been portrayed in Greek novels from 1950 to the present day.
The relationship between history and literary discourse will be examined, highlighting the evolving representation of the Civil War in literary fiction. The lecture will scrutinize the factors, both political and cultural, that influenced the way the Civil War was depicted in Greek prose, and how certain novels ignited public political and ideological discussions. The session will focus on emblematic Greek novels published from 1950 to the present, shedding light on the changes observed during this period.
Michail Bakoyiannis, a renowned academic born in Athens, has made significant contributions to the field of Modern Greek Literature. He has taught at various institutions, including the University of Cyprus, University of Belgrade, Universiteit van Amsterdam, and more. With a Doctorate in Modern Greek Literature, Bakoyiannis has published several books, and his research areas include post-war Greek Literature and the literary periodicals of the 19th and 20th centuries.
Following Dr Bakoyiannis’s lecture, starting at 7.15 pm, Dean Kalimniou, a Neos Kosmos contributor and a multi-talented figure within the Greek community, will take the audience on a captivating journey through the life and times of Pyrrhus, the renowned king of Epirus. Often referred to as the Western Alexander, Pyrrhus was an exceptional ruler who faced off against the might of Rome, leaving an indelible mark on history. Kalimniou will traverse three continents and three empires to unveil the intriguing story of this historical figure.
Dean Kalimniou, a lawyer, poet, and short story writer, has significantly contributed to the Greek community’s literary scene. His works, including poetry collections and translations, have garnered acclaim. He has also released a bilingual children’s book, “‘Simela and the Magic Kemenche’, with plans for another release in 2024, titled ‘The Librarian from Cappadocia’.
The evening is open to the public, with free admission and light refreshments provided.
When: Thursday, August 17, at 6.15pm and 7 pm
Where: Greek Centre, Mezzanine, 168 Lonsdale St., Melbourne
For more information contact +61 3 9662 2722 and or info@greekcommunity.com.au
