When the fair Europe was seized by Zeus (disguised as a bull), little did we know that this very myth would be the beginning of a common narrative throughout Europe and that it would define our European common identity. When Aphrodite was born out of the waves just outside the coast of south-west Cyprus, little did we know about the effect that this myth would have on art, literature or theatre. 

Mythology is a common narrative throughout Europe. National myths connect to those of other nations, they interlock, and they mix only to create another great narrative. We grow up with them, we pass them on to the next generation…. but can we use them to evoke sentiments of common identity to our students? Can we use the similarities of those myths to create the unity we intend to promote for the construction of a common future?

The course will aim to highlight the formation of Europe as the cradle of civilization and the role of mythology and common legends in this formation.  As mythology and history, culture and art blend together, critical thinking and historical conscience are developed to form common heritage and active citizenship.

Approaching this subject with the students in the classroom is a challenge that we are eager to take on. Latest approaches on how-to-teach mythology, on-the-spot visits, connecting myths by discovering similarities and differences, tours in museums and archaeological sites are only a few of the features of this seminar.