Celebrating the Greek Language Day
The official day of celebrating the Greek Language is February, 9th. This day aims to emphasize the significant role of the Greek Language in Western Civilization. The Greek Language has contributed in the shape of the Literature, Science and Technology worldwide. Greek is considered one of the oldest living languages.
Why is February, 9th an official Greek Language day of celebration?
This date is chosen on purpose.
The same date is a commemoration of the national Greek poet, Dionynios Solomos. Dionysios Solomos wrote the poem “Hymn to Freedom”, part of which is the National Anthem of Greece.
Do you know any Greek scientific terms of that are used in foreign languages?
μηχανή / machine
τεχνολογία / tecnhology
αυτοματισμός / automation
τηλεσκόπιο / telescope
βιολογία / biology
γεωγραφία / geography
Some facts about the Greek Language
What are the basic periods of the Greek Language?
The basic periods of the Greek Language are the following:
-Myceanean
-Classic Greek
-Koine Hellenistic
–Mediavel Greek
-Modern Greek
What do you know about Homer’s language?
Homer wrote his epic poems, Iliad, Odyssey and Epic Hymns in his own style of language, the Epic Greek. Homer’s language is a poetic mixture of Ionic Greek with forms of Aeolic dialec. His language is indeed unique.
What do you know about Hellenistic Greek?
Hellenistic Greek was the official language spoken and written from 4th to 6th century.
It was spoken by non-native Greek speakers. This simplified language was used for communication, administration and trade.
Hellenistic Koini is considered more simple and not so musical compared with Classical Greek.
Greek language is the tool of important Greek people
Great philosophers, such as Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Herodotus and Thucydides wrote in Greek. They are all globally known for their impact in Philosophy and History.
Moreover, Odysseus Elytis language is authentic. The Nobelist poet wrote his poems in a unique personal style. His language is a wonderful blend of Ancient, Epic and Modern Greek.
The long continuation of Greek is obvious from all the phases of Greek History.
Λεξιλόγιο – Vocabulary
1/ η διάλεκτος = dialect
2/ μιλάω = to speak
3/ εμφανής = obvious
4/η φάση phase
5/ συγκρίνω = to compare
