Great Books Seminars
Discussion-based seminars in the Great Books tradition — small groups, primary sources, and the Socratic method. We read Homer, Plato, Dante, Shakespeare, and beyond.
Children & Adults
A space for
mutual learning
and excellence
'Epimeleia is a community of curious minds who gather to read closely, think deeply, and grow together in a warm and like-minded company.
Discover moreAbout
Care of the mind and soul
Epimeleia ('επιμέλεια) is the ancient Greek word for "care" — care for others, for learning, and for the examined life.
'Epimeleia is an independent learning space in Leiden where people of all ages come together to engage seriously and joyfully with great texts, ideas, and languages. We believe that genuine education is a shared endeavour — one that happens not in a lecture hall alone, but in conversation, in close reading, and in the company of others who share a love of learning.
Our seminars are modelled on the Great Books tradition: small groups, primary texts, and Socratic dialogue. We offer open reading groups, instruction in classical languages, and personalised academic and creative writing tutoring — both online and in person in Leiden.
Whether you are a student, a working professional, a retiree, or a curious child, you are welcome here. We are a community, not a school — and striving for excellence together is what unites us.
Location
Leiden, Netherlands
(also online)
Who we welcome
Children & Adults
All ages and backgrounds
Languages of instruction
English · Dutch
Ancient Greek · Latin
Format
Small groups · One-on-one
In-person & online
What we offer
Educational experiences
Open Reading Groups
Open, community-led reading circles — free of charge — for those who want to read great works together without formal instruction. A place for ideas to roam freely among equals.
All ages welcomeClassical Languages
Ancient Greek and Latin — taught with care and rigour, from the alphabet to reading original texts. We strongly promote the active method, though we also work with grammar-translation or a combination of both, adapting to each student's needs and learning patterns.
Beginner to advancedAcademic Writing
One-on-one tutoring in academic writing — from argumentation and structure to style and citation. Ideal for students at secondary and university level.
Online & In-person · LeidenCreative Writing
Personalised creative writing tutoring for all ages and levels. We work with fiction, poetry, personal essays, and experimental forms — nurturing each writer's authentic voice.
Online & In-person · LeidenBespoke Programmes
Have something particular in mind? We design custom learning programmes for individuals, families, and small groups — whether a summer course, a book club, or a term-long curriculum.
Get in touchContact
Get in touch
We would love to hear from you — whether you have a question, want to join a seminar, or simply want to know more about what we do.
Email
contact@epimeleia.com
Phone
+31 6 82 85 63 17
Location
Leiden, Netherlands