Program Overview
Study theatre, drama and performing culture on the Mediterranean island of Cyprus, "birthplace of Aphrodite", one of the most unique places of ancient Greek and Roman heritage. With its historical roots, archeological sites and cultural diversity, it offers an unequaled opportunity for an exciting, challenging and educational summer session abroad.
At the western end of the island is the town of Paphos, once the capital in Roman times, and a place of an old-world-atmosphere. We will work in the authentic environment of this ancient city in an amphitheatre, the Roman Odeon. We will stay nearby at one of the most beautiful traditional villages, Droushia, in the superb Akamas mountain scenery -- complete with forests, vineyards, olive and fig trees, fascinating coastlines and unspoiled beaches around.
The session combines the analysis of plays by Aeschylos, Sophocles, Euripides and others with a workshop-production of Euripides' "Medea". Both will be taught by the faculty director. Cypriot artists and scholars will also lecture and/or lead discussions and excursions. Aside from the opportunity to see a variety of performances, from classical to contemporary experimental shows, we'll visit archaeological sites and museums in Paphos and all over the island (from Greek mosaics in ancient monuments to Byzantine icons in monasteries of the Middle Ages). We'll also take day-trips to the capital Nicosia, famous for its complete Venetian Wall and its picturesque old town; to Limassol, where the Roman Kourion theatre and the 15th century Kolossi castle reflect Cyprus' rich past; and to the Troodos mountains (4,000 ft) to enjoy the nature of places like Fontana Amorosa, a bubbling spring, the place where Aphrodite used to take her bath as the legend tells.
Students live in pairs or groups of three to four per bedroom in modern apartments with livingrooms, all facilities, fully furnished, with half-board at a nearby restaurant.
UD students pay all program fee deposits by direct bank transfer via this website: http://www.udel.edu/studyabroadpayments. Non-UD students should send a check, payable to the University of Delaware, to CFIS, Elliott Hall, 26 East Main Street, Newark, DE 19716. Credit card payments are not accepted.
