5 Reasons Why Learn Greek: The Benefits

Background / History

The Greek language is one of the most ancient languages and one that has taken many centuries to develop into its present-day form. Going back in time, with a history of 34 centuries, Greek had gone through different stages and phases (The ancient phase, subdivided into the Mycenaean period and Archaic and Classical periods, the Hellenistic and Roman phase, the Byzantine phase and the Modern phase). It is also worth noting some important facts about Greek. Greek was used throughout the Roman and Byzantine Empires and was reintroduced to the rest of Europe after the fall of Constantinople in 1453. Moreover, it was widely used in one of the largest empires of the ancient world by Alexander the Great. Also, the origin of Christianity can be traced to Greek as Greek(Biblical, New Testament Greek) was the original language of the New Testament and the Old Testament. Greek has survived and developed through time and nowadays in the Mediterranean, Greek is the official spoken language of Greece and of Cyprus but it is also a minority language spoken in parts of Italy, Albania, Romania, Armenia, and Ukraine. Here are 5 reasons why learn Greek and its benefits

1. Greek in science

As a language with such a great history and ancient roots, it was unavoidable to leave its fingerprints in many areas, fields and sciences of our modern world. This goes back to ancient times when famous Greek philosophers, writers, poets and mathematicians thrived!  Greek is used worldwide in multiple fields such as medicine, history, maths, physics, geography, poetry, theatre, literature, and philosophy due to its flexibility to create new words using parts of other words. By learning Greek you will understand why certain things are called the way they are called in multiple scientific fields.  

2. Greek in your language 

A variety of words in many languages are of Greek origin. Daily, you may use Greek words without even knowing it. Studying and learning Greek is of major importance as it gives you a better understanding of your language and our world. Everything will start making more sense as you will discover how the language chain works (etymology). For example, paediatrician (English)- pédiatre (French)-παιδίατρος (Greek—παιδί (child) +ιατρός (doctor). 

3. Connect with Greek people and Greek culture

Another great reason for learning the Greek language is the fact that this will enable you to communicate with the locals.  If you are of Greek origin, a lover of Greece, have Greek friends, are married to a Greek or planning summer holidays in Greece then that’s the language you will need to focus on! How great would it be to communicate with everyone in their own native language! On the one hand, it is a way to reconnect with your family, friends, and relatives, continuing and keeping your roots. In addition, conversational Greek will give a different perspective to your holidays in Greece as you will understand people better while you will notice that locals would really appreciate it and will treat you with sweetness as a thank you for speaking their language! You will be amazed!! 

From a more personal perspective, listening and understanding your favourite Greek song, drama or theatrical performance, tv-series, proverb or saying will help you connect better with the Greek culture.<span< a=””> style=”font-weight: 400;”> In addition, Greek would help you if you are interested in studying different ancient Greek texts because It will be much easier to access and understand the original and prototype scripts for your subject of interest. </span<>

4. Work in Greece and do business in Greece

I would say that if you are looking for new business opportunities, planning to expand your business in Greece or even have a startup in Greece, then you have another great reason to learn Greek. Getting to know the language, culture, habits, traditions and attitudes of Greeks is fundamental in this case, as this will give you a better understanding of their way of thinking. You are directly gaining an important professional advantage, as in many cases people are more confident, can trust and have a comfortable feeling when their future partner, client or employer speaks their language.

5. Good for your mind

Furthermore, learning any new language is good for your mind’s health. Practising listening, speaking, reading and writing with quizzes, crosswords or using a language application is good for your memory, sharpening your mind and keeping you alert! Moreover, learning a language and especially Greek is really challenging, so making mistakes, trying to improve and ‘exposing’ yourself while using the language, can get you out of your comfort zone. You will be surprised by your accomplishments, building, and boosting your confidence. 

If you are interested in learning Greek, we can help you achieve your goals. We have many different Greek courses at any level that will help you become a confident speaker of this great and beautiful language.