The
Greek Alphabet
In
addition to Greek, people employed in the tourist trade generally
speak English, some French or German and it is relatively
easy to get by in Athens without attempting to say anything
more complicated than moussaka or retsina. However, anyone
who wishes to elevate him- or herself above the humble tourista,
should attempt to learn at least a few basic phrases in Greek.
The language itself deserves this mark of respect; not only
is it beautiful but it is also one of the foundation stones
of almost all other European languages. Moreover, getting
around the city is much easier once the Greek alphabet has
been mastered even though most signs are both in Greek and
Latin alphabet.
In
the twentieth century, Greek suffered from a bitter struggle
between Dhimotiki (popular Greek) and Katharevoussa (cleansed
Greek). The latter was introduced by the first rulers of independent
Greece who sought to recreate the purity of their classical
past by reinstating long-defunct vocabulary and grammar. Dhimotiki,
the form of the language that had naturally evolved over Greece's
long history, was repressed and Katharevoussa became the official
language of government, business and the professions. In recent
years however, Dhimotiki has reasserted itself as the national
language and is used in all forms of life with the exceptions
of the church and the legal profession.
Learning
Greek
As
Greek is one of the foundation stones of almost all other
European languages, it certainly is worthwhile learning Greek.
Mastering the language not
only will give you a much higher self confidence while staying
in Greece, it will also result in a much closer connection
to the Greek population. Imagine how much more you can learn
from the old Greeks who do not speak any other language. On
top, you will be highly respected by the Greeks for knowing
their language.
There
are several ways to learn Greek. You can learn Greek online.
A simple search will guide you to the many different language
sites that offer Greek lessons. You can buy a language course
(with audio cassettes, cd-rom or dvd) and master the Greek
language in your spare time.
The
very best way to learn Greek however, is to
go to a language school and be thought Greek
there, often by a Greek teacher. Not too many
schools offer this solution but if there is
one close to you, it might be a good idea
to get more information on their Greek language
course.
Your
first Greek words