Xenophobe’s guide to the Greeks
Xenophobia – an irrational fear of foreigners, probably justified, always understandable.
Xenophobe’s Guides – an irreverent look at the beliefs and foibles of nations, almost guaranteed to cure Xenophobia.
‘Individuality is the chief feature that characterises the Greeks, which precludes any attempt to box and label them as a people. After that comes their temperament which flourishes uninhibited throughout their waking hours. This is probably why the ancient sages saw fit to carve their maxims ‘Nothing in excess’ and ‘Know thyself’ on the portals of the Delphic Oracle in an attempt to persuade their fellow Greeks to curb their emotions. They were not heeded then any more than they are now.’
About the Author
Alexandra Fiada was born in Athens to a family as old as the hills. A journalist and former editor of several magazines, she now spends her time writing (among other things) an extensive history of Athens, and teaching every hapless tourist she encounters the correct way to speak Greek.
