The Olympic Games remind us how profoundly the language, philosophy and imagery of Greek competitive events have permeated western thinking. To celebrate London’s hosting of the games in 2012, King’s College London has organised an interdisciplinary conference, exploring a range of ancient and modern responses to the Greek idea of victory, or nike. How did it come about, for example, that personified images of Victory should lord it across the contemporary London landscape? Why does the image of Victory so permeate western art and literature? Indeed, how is it that a modern brand of sportswear came to be named after a Greek goddess? Speakers at this workshop, all from King’s College London, will examine this ancient Greek tradition, as well as its various transformations over the last two and a half millennia.

Hellenists across the United Kingdom are marking this summer’s celebrations with a series of events and this event is also part of the Society for the Promotion of Roman Studies Olympics Ancient & Modern programme.

For further information visit Representing Victory or contact chsevents@kcl.ac.uk.