At The Classical Institute, the Short Seminar Series offers focused, academically grounded explorations across theology, religion, philosophy, language, and culture. Each series engages key texts and traditions, inviting critical reflection on enduring questions of meaning, faith, and the intellectual heritage of the East and West.

Exploring Ideas That Shaped Civilisations

  • Nature and the Gods Harmonised: Ionian Science in Heraclitus

    This four-part seminar series, led by Dr Simon Trépanier, Senior Lecturer in Classics at the University of Edinburgh, explores how early Greek thinkers began to question and reinterpret traditional conceptions of the Divine. From Xenophanes’ critique of Homeric anthropomorphism to Heraclitus’ synthesis of divine order and natural law, participants trace the beginnings of philosophical theology in early Greece.

    Seminar Two: Saturday 13 June 7:00pm-8:00pm (UK Time) | Enrolment Now Open | Taught Online Only

    Seminar Overview & Registration

  • Part II | Sunday 21 June 7:00pm-7:45pm (UK Time) | Enrolment Remains Open | Taught Online Only

    This seminar forms part of John Claughton's Classical Seminar Series, which explores the intellectual flowering of 5th century BCE Athens, when history, drama, and philosophy first emerged as distinct forms of enquiry. Having previously examined Herodotus, Sophocles, and Thucydides, the series now turns to Plato's account of the trial, imprisonment, and death of Socrates through readings of the Apology and Crito.

    Part II | Sunday 21 June 7:00pm-7:45pm (UK Time) | Enrolment Remains Open | Taught Online Only

    Crito: The Great Escape- or not: Socrates defends his decision to face the death penalty for which his fellow citizens voted.

    Registration & Enrolment

  • Spiritual Dimensions of Christianity

    This six-part seminar series, led by Carol Mayes, Visitor Chaplain at Birmingham Cathedral, offers a focused exploration of the spiritual and theological dimensions of Christianity. Through engagement with scripture, doctrine, and practice, participants will examine themes such as prayer, contemplation, and the work of the Holy Spirit.

    The series invites reflection on how these enduring traditions continue to shape identity, community, and the pursuit of holiness in the contemporary world.

    Seminar Three: Thursday 30 July 2026 8:00pm-9:00pm (UK Time) | Enrolment Now Open | Taught Online Only

    Registration