Visitor Voices – Aphrodisia: Sexuality, Pleasure & Identity

The ancient Greeks were known for their love of getting together in a relaxed environment, breaking bread and arguing philosophy, politics, the meaning of life and everything in between. Inspired by these ancient symposia, Visitor Voices invites you to explore some of life's age-old questions from a modern perspective, in a casual group environment.

These fortnightly discussions will unleash your inner philosopher as Museum staff guide a Socratic discussion among a small group of participants. Socratic discussions place emphasis on a shared, equal dialogue – staff will open conversation with thought-provoking questions which participants are encouraged to discuss and ask questions in return, creating a back and forth dialogue between institution and visitor.

Each session will delve into a new theme, with no prior knowledge required – just a sense of curiosity and a willingness to join in! Tickets include Museum general admission.

Please note, due to the discussion of mature themes, this program is recommended for audiences aged 15 years and older.

Session 2 –  Aphrodisia: Sexuality, Pleasure & Identity

The ancient Greeks would not have subscribed to our modern understanding of sexuality. Instead, the ambiguous and vague concept of Aphrodisia – ‘the works and acts of the Aphrodite’ – was used as a term to collate the immeasurable acts and gestures of pleasure one might give and receive. Some ancient practices sit uncomfortably against modern sensibilities while others seem restrictive. Join us as we explore the rich and complex landscapes of ancient and modern perceptions of sexuality and pleasure, and discover how knowledge of the ancient world can inform our behaviours today.

Explore other sessions:

• Session 1  – Sat 1 July – Memento Mori: The Art of Living and Dying
• Session 3 – Sat 29 July – Being Young and Growing Old in the Ancient World
• Session 4 – Sat 12 August – Ideal Cities, Ideal Lives? Ancient and Modern Urbanity
• Session 5 – Sat 26 August – What is Beauty? The Good, The Bad and The Ugly, from Plato to Adichie