In this course, we will read a range of early Christian texts in Ancient Greek, written between the first and eleventh centuries. The selections vary in style and complexity – from the more accessible Greek of the Didache and the Martyrdom of Polycarp to the more intricate prose of Origen, Clement of Alexandria, and Athanasius. We begin with early Christian treatises and letters from the first and second centuries, such as those of Clement of Rome and Ignatius of Antioch, then move to the works of Justin Martyr, Origen, and Athanasius. In the later weeks, we will read selections from the Cappadocian Fathers, along with passages from the homilies of John Chrysostom, the Sayings of the Desert Fathers, and works by John of Damascus and Symeon the New Theologian.
Course details:
- Sessions last 1.5 hours
- 1 session per week
- Course lasts 14 weeks
- Term runs Jan. 4, 2026 – Apr. 11, 2026
How ALI courses work:
- ALI courses are live, online classes run by ALI Ancient Greek professors. Learn Ancient Greek from anywhere.
- Classes run on a trimester basis.
- Fall: September – December
- Spring: January – April
- Summer: May – August
- We want to make sure you’re completely satisfied. If you don’t love your first Ancient Greek class, we guarantee a 100% refund. After that, in weeks 2 – 4, refunds will be made on a pro rata basis, based on however many class sessions you’ve attended. We cannot issue refunds after the fourth week of classes.
- Read more on our FAQ page and check out our academic calendar page to see a more detailed schedule
