The Parthenon Marbles Through Young Voices: A Unique Nostos–Boston University | Classical Studies: Modern Greek Collaboration & A Special Interview with Mimi Denissi

A Powerful Bridge Between Languages, Cultures, and Voices

At Nostos Hellenic Academy, we believe that language is not simply a subject of study — it is a living bridge that connects people, ideas, and histories across the world. This belief came vividly to life through our recent collaboration with Boston University | Classical Studies: Modern Greek, in a project that brought together students from both institutions in a truly shared academic and cultural experience.

As part of this initiative, a Boston University student and a student from Nostos worked side by side, researching and engaging deeply with one of the most enduring and debated cultural heritage issues: the Marbles of the Parthenon. Through dialogue, research, and collaboration, they developed a joint academic approach that reflected both critical thinking and cultural sensitivity.

A highlight of this experience was the remarkable contribution of our students, Alexandra Iliopoulou and Georgia Karantenisli, who took their research one step further by conducting a telephone interview with the acclaimed actress and creator Mimi Denissi, on the occasion of her new docudrama “The Woman Behind Elgin”.

In this powerful and thought-provoking conversation, Ms. Denissi shared insights into the inspiration behind her work and reflected on the Marbles of the Parthenon as a profound symbol of cultural identity, memory, and continuity. Her words illuminated the deep and often emotional connection between art and history, reminding us of the responsibility that storytelling carries.

BU Modern Greek Students in the Intermediate Modern Class worked in groups on the interview through comprehension activities, multiple-choice questions, and discussion—engaging with the Greek language through authentic and contemporary cultural content.

This project reaffirmed our core mission:
to bring the Greek language to life through authentic, meaningful, and global connections.

We extend our deepest gratitude to Ms. Mimi Denissi for her generosity in sharing both her time and her insights, as well as for granting permission for the use of photographic material.

A heartfelt congratulations to our students for their curiosity, collaboration, and outstanding engagement throughout this experience.

The full interview can be viewed here:

Greek:
https://canva.link/lqqe5l64bsyhweg

English:

https://canva.link/jm14yju8jysd3hu

Because at Nostos, we continue to dream big — and to keep the Greek language alive, across borders and generations.

Supervising teachers:
Kelly Polychroniou, Boston University | Head of Modern Greek Program
Maria Kyriakantonaki, Founder/Director, Nostos Hellenic Academy