The Status of Modern Greek and Hellenic Studies in Canada and the York University Experience

The development of programs devoted to Modern Greek and Hellenic Studies is a more recent phenomenon in Canada than in the United States. In addition to being younger, the programs in Canada are located in social, political and institutional situations that present them with some opportunities and challenges that differ from those facing US programs. They also confront some of the same dilemmas as colleagues elsewhere as these are common to academia in North America. Because there are fewer MGHS programs in Canada, the possibilities for higher levels of inter-program co-operation and co-ordination are greater. In the ways that the directors and chairs of programs in Canada are addressing the manifold challenges and opportunities gives grounds for cautious optimism regarding the current state and future development of Modern Greek and Hellenic Studies in Canada.