What was Sappho’s approach to love, and how did she connect with Aphrodite? Can we find an ancient Greek “Tantra” tradition? What were the steps of erotic mystagogy for the ancient Greeks?

In an era where love, freedom, and even homosexuality were celebrated as natural aspects of human experience, we delve into the profound teachings of ancient Greek philosophy and female poetry. This workshop explores the power of love—how it shapes attraction, fosters personal transformation and even contributes to the development of citizenship and democracy.

Through the lens of Sappho’s poetry, Aristophanes story-telling on hetero and homosexuality, and the teachings of the ancient Greek philosopher Diotima, (Socrates’ teacher in love) and the theatrical performance of texts from Plato’s Symposium, we unlock the mysteries of erotic mystagogy.

We will reflect on timeless works such as Sappho’s Poems on Female Love and Plato’s Symposium, that not only analyze erotic love in all its aspects but also celebrate it as an essential, transformative force in society and in our personal lives.

This workshop offers a space to explore how these ancient teachings can guide us in realizing our strengths, embracing our desires, making more conscious choices, and accepting ourselves as erotic beings.