Dear Classical Wisdom Reader,

Christmas in South America sucks.

Well, maybe not the whole continent, but here in Argentina it is hard to get into the spirit of things. It’s hot… it’s super sunny… there are no Christmas songs in the shops or decorations. No lights on the streets. No one wears ugly sweaters or funny hats.

You can’t even buy real Christmas tree here… and the fake ones they do have are pretty depressing. But I try to get into holiday mood nonetheless:

After all, Christmas has a long and storied tradition of celebration, a legacy of partying that goes back to the ancient world.

Indeed, for those of you who don’t already have it circled on the calendar, today is the beginning of Saturnalia!

We’ll discuss this fantastic holiday, what Catullus called “the best of days” more during the week (after all, it lasts a whole week!) And the fact that, fortunately for me, there is an earlier midsummer Greek tradition that might be more apt for my current situation…

In the meantime, enjoy our weekend roundup below and the moment for a classics catch up. Oh and don’t forget to get your lord of misrule on… Io Saturnalia!!!

All the best,

Anya Leonard

Founder and Director

Classical Wisdom

P.S. Saturnalia, just like Christmas, is a time of gift giving! If you need an inspiring gift for a young one, we got you covered:

Our beautifully illustrated Children’s book on the ancient Greek poetess, Sappho, is now only $10! And will arrive in time for the holidays (at least for those in the US).

Perfect for boys and girls aged 3-7, it tells the wonderful story of Sappho, her brothers, and the remarkable discovery of the Brother’s Poem, one of the most exciting archeological and literary finds in the last decade!

Whether you are an auntie, uncle, grandparent, parent, godparent, neighbor… or you just know a little one in your life that you would like to see begin their classical journey (after all, they are the future stewards of history), this hardback book can inspire.

Give the love of ancient history, poetry and archeology this holiday!

This Week’s Articles and Resources: