Classical Pursuits provides a wonderful opportunity for inquiring minds to discuss great works of literature. Working in association with the Great Books Foundation, many of Classical Pursuits’ book discussions are led by Foundation staff members.
Classical Pursuits yearly event is a one-week summer program at University of Toronto's St. Michael's College. This immersion course closely resembles a local Great Books Foundation meeting and offers an opportunity to read and discuss a particular work in depth, while also enjoying a variety of cultural and social activities.
Participants can choose from a dozen different classes each year. Courses this year included Bleak House, A Hundred Years of Solitude, The Book of Job and Russian Short Stories. The 2005 list has not been announced, but since the choices are always dynamic and varied, there is sure to be a class to appeal to almost everyone.
A different selection of two-week international journeys is also offered each year. These tours generally spend a week each at two different locations, allowing for a close inspection of the places and events that influenced the selected authors. Incorporating all areas of cultural influence – the art, history, music and politics of the time – and visits to great local sites, these tours provide a well-rounded exploration into the land and people whose work continues to inspire readers today.
Upcoming trips: October 2004, The Elixir of Andalucia.
For 2005: On Persephone's Island (Sicily), Irish Literary Genius (Dublin and the Aran Islands, and The Other Poland (Krakow), all of which promise to be fascinating.
A couple short trips are also planned: October 2004, Viva Quebec and next year, The Algonquin Round Table, in New York and Po' Boys and Naughty Girls in N'Awlins (New Orleans).
The web site is very well done with lots of information and their monthly newsletter is both entertaining and informative — a must for literary lovers.
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