FOUNDATIONAL ASPECTS OF EUROPEAN CULTURE

The Benedictus Residential Summer School, Heythrop College, London

Sunday 2 August to Friday 14 August 2015


Daily reading seminars | Daily visit seminars to London's cultural sites

Teaching from international academics | Study in a small group

Evening lectures from eminent scholars | Music and theatre performances


DOWNLOAD THE FULL PROSPECTUS HERE | WATCH THE 2014 SUMMER SCHOOL VIDEO HERE

Email our office for an application form.


During this two week course we will introduce students to the foundational elements of European civilisation, from the ancient world to the formation of Christian Europe.

We will study some of the milestones, both intellectual and cultural, that have marked its development; from Plato and Vergil to Raphael and T. S. Eliot, in each case highlighting the thematic connections between the disciplines.

Whether you have just left school, are on your gap year or are studying at university, if you are keen to discover some of the riches of western Europe in its philosophy, history, art and architecture, then this course is for you.

The course comprises lectures, classroom-based reading seminars and visits to galleries and museums; this exciting combination of learning techniques is essential in order to emphasise the connections across the subjects and understand the context in which major cultural and intellectual developments took place.

Class sizes are limited to 18 in order to create an intimate and dynamic community of learning. You will be studying, living, discussing and enjoying the company of a small, diverse group of enthusiastic young people on this intense course.

Highlights for 2015 include Plato with Professor Anthony O’Hear, Shakespeare with Professor Andrew Moran - studying Richard II with a trip to see the play performed at the Globe; a day-trip to Winchester to discover more about medieval life with a private tour of Winchester College and library from Dr Richard - Head of History and Keeper of Treasury; visits to the British Museum with Professor Edward Chaney and Dante with Professor John Took.


From our students in 2014...

"I think this summer school has really changed me, both as a student and as a person. I have learnt how interesting studying is and how beautiful it is to study with such people that are in love with what they do. Living in the college has taught me that being a student doesn’t always mean being alone in my room, but also discussing with the others, asking questions, judging a work of art.” Laura Militello

“I really loved both academically and in general the small numbers of the whole thing. Being one of 12 obliged us to know each other, to talk, to confront and discuss about lectures and visits." Matteo Colombo

“It was really beautiful participating in this course. It has helped me to gain such a love for knowledge! I really loved the environment and the fact that the subjects helped me to a better understanding about who I am. Keep going with this beautiful course.” Cecilia Leardini

“The two [classroom teaching and visits] were perfectly balanced. It has been an extraordinary way to learn and visit London at the same time.” Francesca Capitelli

“The faculty and staff were well informed, engaging and very approachable.” Tom Longano

“Generally I loved how everyone has got along, having an amazing time and proud to be the first Benedictus students.” Miriam Fairbairn


Stratford Caldecott Memorial Award

The Stratford Caldecott Memorial Award is presented to the Summer School student who achieves the highest mark in the assessment.

The inaugural Stratford Caldecott Memorial Award went to Cecilia Leardini for her outstanding contribution to the Summer School and top marks in both her presentation on Leonardo's The Virgin of the Rocks in the National Gallery and essay. Terror and hope: the reaction of philosophy and poetry in front of wonder was an excellent essay and we recommend that you take a look. Congratulations Cecilia!benedictus.org.uk

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