Culture Smart

Culture Smart: Greece!

This short book is available as a pdf download through the Library - please contact Michelle Early (early@xavier.edu) for help and more information on how to access it.

This very short book is an excellent introduction to the places, people, culture, and sensibilities of Greece. There are nine chapters in total, the first being the longest in terms of history and background. Each chapter covers a range of useful information that will prepare you to enjoy Greece to the fullest extent possible and provide helpful ideas for things to write about in the daily reflection journal and (if you're taking two CLAS courses) the Weebly assignment.

Why do the Greeks seem to smile less? Why sometimes will they "close talk"? Is Greek hospitality a real thing? Why does it sometimes sound like they are angry when they talk? Why suddenly will a Greek give you something free (with a meal, in a store, etc.)? What is the truth about Greek mothers? Why is there tension between Greeks and Turks? Why Greeks celebrate saints' days over actual birthdays?

These are just a few questions that the Culture Smart book addresses. You will have a much richer experience in Greek if you take the time to read this book.

Greece - Culture Smart! by Constantine Buhayer
Call Number: Electronic Book
ISBN: 9781857338706
Publication Date: 2018-01-04
When you enter Greece's mountainous peninsula, with its long coastline and unique archipelago, you are returning to the cradle of Western civilization. And while the ancient Greeks fashioned our political, ethical, aesthetic, and scientific values, their descendants down the ages have continued to set trends and shape world events. The Greek character is a product of the landscape. Surrounded by sea on three sides, the physical features of the land forged the pronounced individuality and strong local patriotism of the warring city-states of antiquity. Their shared history and language formed the basis of a powerful world culture. Today it is coming to terms with its recent economic and political upheavals. The Greeks have repeatedly proved they can adjust and shift their expectations--the new generation knows the old ways have gone and is bracing itself for unpredictable challenges. Culture Smart! Greece will equip you with essential information about the background, values, and attitudes of the people you will meet and give practical advice on how to deal with unfamiliar situations. Life in Greece operates on many criss-crossing levels, offering plenty of possibilities and a variety of lifestyles. Visitors emerge from their Greek experience enriched for life, with an enduring affection for this beautiful land and its gifted people.