About us
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Seminars for curious minds
The Chiron Institute offers weekly discussion seminars on philosophy, literature and European culture. Its goal is to provide curious individuals with a place to explore their interests and broaden their perspectives. In the style of ancient French salon, we seek to connect people to create a community of lifelong learners through a common passion for culture.
To join us, no prior expertise is required – only curiosity and a taste for discussion! -
A passion for culture
– Homines dum docent discunt
Quentin is a Swiss-born teacher and college lecturer, specializing in French literature, Classics, and ancient history. After living and teaching on two continents, he settled in Philadelphia and founded the Chiron Institute, to create a place where curious minds can explore ideas together.
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Small groups, rich conversations
Our small-group format ensures everyone can meaningfully participate in the discussion. We explore various topics in a relaxed atmosphere and seek to foster deep conversation while avoiding academic narrowness. Our seminars generally follow this structure:
a short introduction to the subject
close reading of important passages, or analysis of artworks
guided discussions among participants
Our seminars
Summer session (05.11 - 07.24)
Our seminars are weekly 1h30-long discussions, held in small groups. Our current founding-rate is $400 for a 10-weeks seminar.
At the moment, our seminars can be organized online on Zoom, or in-person, either in our East Falls office (15 min from Center City by train), or in cafe’s and libraries across Philadelphia. Please indicate your location preference when you register.
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Vindica te tibi – Reclaim yourself: a dive into the writings of stoicism’s fathers, Seneca, Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius.
Coming back home. Homer’s Odyssey: a thourough exploration of one of the World’s greatest work. Each week, we’ll discuss two to three books of this masterpiece and explore the related.
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Readings in Latin are not offered on a regular basis but can be organized for people eager to practice this language. Please inquire below. -
Scandinavian culture: This summer, Chiron is hearding North. Bergman’s movies, Kierkegaard’s writings and the Skagen painters will help us cool our minds when the heat intensifies.
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Le cinéma de Bertrand Tavernier : découvrez ce réalisateur iconique, humaniste engagé, amoureux de l’Amérique, au travers de quatre films iconiques, qui nous emmèneront à travers l’histoire de la France.
Le XVIIème siècle, vu de France : un séjour dans la France du XVIIème siècle, au travers de ses poètes, écrivains, peintres et musiciens.
———Les classes en français requièrent un niveau C1
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This seminar offers a mix of different topics and is ideal for someone with eclectic interests and a desire for variety.
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Les classes en français requièrent un niveau C1
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It’s never too late to learn Latin! For the most motivated learners eager to gain access to an endless list of masterpieces, we offer introductory classes to this beautiful language. Get a grasp of the grammar and start reading classics!
We also offer readings in Latin for those who are familiar with the language and are interested in practicing it in a friendly and casual setting.
To register, please fill up the form and we’ll reach back to you shortly.