Pascal Experience 2025 Athens

Join us for a four-day retreat to Athens

Experience

Deadline Application:

Professor

Note: This course will be conducted in Dutch only.

Join us for a four-day retreat to Athens, Greece, the cradle of Western philosophy and home to eminent figures such as Plato, Aristotle, and Sophocles. This historic city, which has inspired Roman thought and Western intellectual traditions for centuries, will serve as the backdrop for an in-depth exploration of one of the greatest tragedies, Antigone by Sophocles, and one of the greatest statesmen, Pericles. With a select group of like-minded professionals, guided by a distinguished professor, you’ll delve deeply into the texts, engage in vibrant discussions, and reflect on life’s most meaningful questions.

Key questions include: what role does the good life play, especially when it is unclear what good is? What does it mean to stand up to authority with courage? What does it mean to be a good leader, especially in times of crisis?

This immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to step back from the bustle of everyday life, gain fresh insights, and recharge in inspiring Athenian settings.

Thursday, May 22, 2025: The program begins in the afternoon with an introductory session. You’ll meet your fellow participants and professor, who will provide an overview of the texts (which you will have read in preparation for the trip). The evening will conclude with our first Greek dinner of the retreat.

Friday & Saturday: These days are dedicated to an in-depth study of the texts. We will guide you to various locations throughout Athens, where your professor will lead two intensive seminars daily – one in the morning and another in the afternoon. Between sessions, we’ll enjoy an extended lunch. The evenings are then yours to spend as you wish, whether to explore the city further or unwind at your own pace. Each day will conclude with a group dinner.

Sunday, May 25, 2025: The final day begins with a slightly later morning seminar and continued study of the texts. The retreat concludes with a closing lunch, where we will share insights from and reflections on the retreat. Following lunch, transportation will be provided to the airport for your return journey.

During this trip we will read:

Plutarchus’ Perikles

Sophocles’ Antigone

These readings will be provided and will be sent to you in advance.

Read our frequently asked questions here.

Not sure if this course is the right fit for you? Schedule a call with our dean Gerard Versluis to discuss your options.

Phone: +31 (0)71 303 19 90
Email: professionals@pascalinstitute.com

“The unexamined life is not worth living.”

- Socrates, in Plato’s Apology.

FAQ

Who is this trip for?

The Pascal Experience is designed for professionals across all disciplines seeking to engage in life’s most meaningful questions. No specific prior knowledge or education is required. 

The Pascal Experience will be attended by a small group 8-10 students, one professor and one supporting staff member.

Dr. Jordi Wiersma

The Pascal Experience Athens will start on Thursday May 22, 2025 in the afternoon and will conclude on Sunday May 25 around 14:30.

The Pascal Experience Athens costs €1.995,-.

The following is included in the price of the Pascal Experience:

  • Welcome package including all study materials
  • 3x breakfast, 3x lunch and 3x dinner
  • 3 nights stay in a hotel
  • 6 classes of close reading, (approximately 15 hours)
  • All transport on sight

 

Your travel to and from the destination city is not included in this price and will not be provided by the Pascal Institute.

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