SIGNATURE MOMENT

Marvel at the splendid antiquities

SIGNATURE MOMENT

Challenge yourself reading one of the world’s greatest books

SIGNATURE MOMENT

Savour delicious Greek Cuisine

SIGNATURE MOMENT

Indulge in a blissful week amidst Venetian architecture

Exploring Homer’s World: Bronze Age Greece

Mar 14-26, 2026

13 days | Greece | Literary Adventures

Please email Abbie to register interest for this tour or to request a detailed itinerary.

READINGS

- The Odyssey by Homer, translated by Emily Wilson
- The Three Theban Plays: Antigone; Oedipus the King; Oedipus at Colonus, translated by Robert Fagles
- Selected shorter readings from the classical Greek world

Part tour, part retreat, this trip is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Homer by reading his epic Odyssey and visiting sites connected to the myths, poetry, and history that shaped ancient Greece.

We set the context by exploring the architectural masterpieces of Athens, including the Acropolis and the Parthenon. Your Classical Pursuits leader and local guide will bring Homeric legends and ancient Greek drama to life on excursions to sites such as Thebes, home to the seven mythological gates, and Epidaurus.

For the second half of our journey, enjoy a week on beautiful Crete. This historic setting amidst Venetian architecture and within walking distance of the Mediterranean coast is the ideal place to dig deeper into The Odyssey. Homer’s poem tells the story of the journey of the Ithacan king Odysseus as he tries to return home after the Trojan War. Your skilled discussion leader will provide a fun and engaging experience whether you are coming to the epic for the first time or have read it many times before. Outside our seminars and discussions, you’ll enjoy excursions to Eleutherna, Phaestus, and Knossos, an ancient city associated with the myth of Theseus and the minotaur.

The guiding principle of our trip is a concept sacred to ancient Greeks and still a fundamental value in Greece today: philoxenia, which can be translated as “friend to the stranger.” The Odyssey is a story of xenia (guest-friendship), whether it is practiced well or poorly, treated with reverence, or parodied. Outside the pages of the book, enjoy Greece’s famous hospitality with a group of travellers who might start out as strangers but will end up as friends.

Watch the recording of the webinar, "A Short History of Homer's Odyssey"with Classical Pursuits Director Melanie Blake here. (34 min. + Q&A)

Watch the recording of webinar, "The Many Faces of Helen of Troy" by Mark Cwik here. (46 min. + Q&A)

Tour Cost (per person):

Approx. US$5995 incl. taxes and gratuities

Group Size:

12 - 16 participants

What’s included: Airport transfers on tour start and end dates;  accommodations based on double occupancy;  ground transportation; all activities as described in the detailed itinerary; entrance fees; internal flight; most meals; literary discussions and spaces; books and readings; audio headsets for touring; bottled water in vehicle during excursions; gratuities for guides, drivers, and included meals; all taxes;  services of your Discussion Leaders; local English-speaking site guides

"The leaders Scott were able to put everything in perspective for anyone who needed clarification of era, time, customers etc." - Past traveller

"Specific to the sites we visited, my favorite was unexpectedly seeing a Greek troupe perform Aristophanes at the Theater at Argos. I also enjoyed the Shared Inquiry discussions." - Past traveller

Itinerary at a Glance

Day	Activity
1	Arrive in Athens
2-3	Athens
4	To Nafplion
5	Epidaurus
6	Argos, Tiryns, Mycenea
7	Fly to Crete
8-10	Crete retreat
11	Knossos
12	Heraklion
13	Depart Crete

Your Tour Leader

Mark Cwik’s deep understanding and appreciation of classical texts are evident in his ability to engage discussion participants and bring ancient stories to life. Mark’s extensive reading and dedication have earned him a reputation among peers and enthusiasts as a highly knowledgeable and skilled reader.

Tour Cost (per person):

Approx. US$5995 incl. taxes and gratuities

Group Size:

12 - 16 participants

What You'll See: