Greek

One of the main themes in The Secret History is the study of Ancient Greek. This includes the language, heritage, literature and practices of the ancients. The class takes the subject very seriously and is encouraged to explore every aspect of the culture by Professor Julian Morrow. Professor Morrow is said to be the foremost authority of Ancient Greek studies on the east coast and perhaps beyond. Morrow's secretive methods almost succeed in turning the class into a type of cult. No one outside the class is permitted into Morrow's office or classroom.

There are a great number of references to Greek literature, characters and language throughout the book. One of the most important references to the practices of the ancients is the Bacchanal rite held at the country house. The ancients knew a great deal about various drugs, poisons and altered states and claimed to be able...