The Center for Middle Eastern Studies will offer a two-week traveling seminar in Turkey, led by Cemal Kafadar, Vehbi Koç Professor of Turkish Studies. The program’s focus will be on mythmaking and history in Istanbul/Constantinople and the adjoining Marmara Sea region.
Located between the Black Sea and Aegean, the Sea of Marmara occupies a unique geographical and historical position. Multiple sites along its shores have functioned as the central points of empires with world-conquering ambitions. These capitals, their geographical sites, and the lore written about their origins will be at the center of the excursion. Beginning and ending in Istanbul/Constantinople, we will circle the Marmara and explore the unique double set of straits that define its limits. Visits to prominent locations from the ancient, medieval, and early modern eras will include Troy, Cyzicus, Iznik (Nicaea), and Bursa.
The program is open to enrolled undergraduate and graduate students across Harvard’s Schools. Students graduating in May are not eligible. The group will be limited to ten students. Airfare, lodging, and local transportation will be covered by CMES. Participants are expected to pay for some meals and incidental costs.
The estimated dates for 2024 are June 6 to June 21.
Please apply here by April 1, 2024. Application materials include:
- Transcript (unofficial my.harvard grade report)
- Academic CV
- Statement of purpose (500 words)
- One letter of recommendation from a Harvard faculty member
Contact Jesse Howell with any questions.