​This Civis BIP is designed to investigate the literary significance of islands, particularly focusing on how insular landscapes function as both physical spaces and rich symbols within literature.

Using the works of 19th-century Greek author Alexandros Papadiamantis, especially his portrayals of Skiathos, the programme delves into themes such as identity, exile, utopia, cultural heritage, and memory. The course also situates these discussions in a broader Mediterranean and Western literary context, drawing from Homer’s Odyssey, Nikos Kazantzakis’ Cretan writings, and other Greek, Italian, English, and Spanish texts.

The programme is structured into two parts: an online theoretical module and a hands-on, in-person experience on the island of Skiathos. The online segment provides students with foundational knowledge through lectures and literary analysis. The on-site module brings the texts to life by engaging students with the landscapes and heritage sites that inspired Papadiamantis, including visits to his home, local churches, and monasteries.

These activities are complemented by workshops and seminars focusing on the literary interpretation of space, gender roles, tradition, religion, and environmental motifs, encouraging students to analyze how setting influences narrative. Students complete the programme by creating a portfolio and reflective essay, allowing them to synthesize theory with their lived experiences. Additional creative tasks, such as producing literary or visual works, and film screenings enhance the exploration of literature’s relationship with place.

Textual resources include ancient to contemporary works, from Homer to modern authors like Margaret Atwood, and the course applies interdisciplinary approaches drawn from literature, history, religious studies, education, and gender studies. Delivered in multiple languages, with English as the main medium, the programme emphasizes multilingual, intercultural, and cross-disciplinary learning, in partnership with universities in Athens, Madrid, and Rome

The physical mobility section of the BIP will take place between 25-29 May 2026, on the Skiathos Island, Greece

• Day 1: visit to the Evangelistria Monastery, guided tour of the Monastery’s Museum, and readings of Alexandros Papadiamantis’ texts with references to the Monastery. A welcoming dinner hosted by the Mayor of Skiathos for the students. Discussion on strengthening the cultural identity of the local community, including an examination of its challenges.
• Day 2: a sea tour (by boat) around the island, showcasing locations mentioned in Papadiamantis’ literary works and readings of excerpts onboard. Stops at key locations with presentations by academic participants. Visit to the Kastro (Castle) of Skiathos, guided tour, readings of literary texts, and academic presentations.
• Day 3: visit to the cemetery of Skiathos with readings of relevant literary excerpts; visit to Plakes Beach and readings of related literary works; outdoor lecture; visit and guided tour of the Papadiamantis House Museum; visit to the Bourtzi Theater to attend a short theatrical performance inspired by Papadiamantis' works, followed by a brief lecture and discussion.
• Day 4: tour of the Skiathos market; meeting with the island’s authorities and representatives of the local community, who will deliver short speeches to the students on their perception of cultural identity today, as well as the impact of climate change and tourism on it; visit and guided tour of the Zisis Oikonomou Museum, accompanied by a lecture; guidance for students and discussion on the material (texts, photos, videos, etc.) they have collected so far.
• Day 5: short lecture summarizing conclusions; collaborative work between students and instructors on the programme portfolio; farewell dinner with the participation of the island’s authorities.

It is noted that, since the physical component of the programme largely involves travel, outdoor lectures, and tours in natural landscapes, the schedule may be modified if required due to weather conditions or potential cultural events organized by the local community (e.g., theatrical performances, dances, etc.), which instructors may integrate into the programme to enhance the students' knowledge and deepen their familiarity with the island and its inhabitants.

The online part of the course will run between 16-27 March 2026:

• day 1 - Introductory lecture (3 h)
• day 2 - Recorded lecture + Bibliography study (4 h total)
• day 3 - Lecture (3 h)
• day 4 - Bibliography study (3 h)
• day 5 - Lecture (3 h)
• day 6 - Bibliography study (3 h)
• day 7 - Final lecture (3 h)
• day 8 - Q&A (2 h)
• day 9 - Assignment presentations (3 h)
• day 10 - Assignment presentations / Conclusions (3 h)