Ancient stories for a changing world

‘[This] is a breathtaking read, providing unexpected, subtle, and brilliant analyses of the power classical mythology holds in a globalized and digital world. From a submarine named Agamemnon to the Minotaur as a symbol for climate change and Kamala Harris as Medea: myth can be made to send all kinds of political messages, also destructive ones. Yet, like Ariadne, Bracke also throws us a lifeline, demonstrating how these same myths can be dynamic and hopeful instruments for thinking about the many ‘wicked problems’ of our own times.’

— Jacqueline Klooster, Professor of Greek Philology

‘Myths are timeless, you hear people say. No, myths are of our time, including the Greek ones. They help to give meaning in unstable times. That is what Evelien Bracke shows in this fascinating, richly documented, surprisingly topical and very convincing book. Few can switch with intricate subject knowledge between memes about the Trojan horse, romantacies about Persephone, pottery and the Congolese hinterland to Homer’s Iliad and other ancient texts. Evelien Bracke does this seemingly effortlessly, having devoted half a lifetime to ancient myths, and to her own time.’

— Patrick De Rynck, classicist and author

‘Classics at Primary School is an engaging and accessible read that has something to offer all educators, classics or not, who are interested in teaching for social justice or adopting a more culturally responsive approach. The author’s demonstrated use of effective self-reflection, her argument for how classical languages have a place in social justice activism, and her detailed practical guide for creating transformative learning experiences within classics programmes are important contributions to the professional fields of classics and education.’

– Jessica Richardi, London School of Economics