Dr Stephanie Holton

Professional biography

My research focuses on ancient thought - especially the interactions between literature, philosophy, and medicine in the Archaic to Classical period. A core interest is the soul and its associated activities both during and after its time in the body. My most recent monograph Sleep and Dreams in Early Greek Thought: Presocratic and Hippocratic Approaches places the theories of the Presocratics and Hippocratics on both phenomena within their full cultural and intellectual context for the first time. I continue to work on ancient ideas about sleep and dreams alongside newer projects on death and the afterlife.

I also actively work on a number of pedagogy projects, especially around the accessibility of ancient languages. I previously undertook a three-year funded project ('Applied Ancient Languages') in which I researched and implemented alternative pathways, learning activities, and assessment for post-intermediate Latin and Ancient Greek. My current projects build on this to explore language acquisition and co-created learning opportunities in different contexts, including at museums and in home education settings.

My teaching interests are wide and varied, and I have extensive experience in the successful design and delivery of Latin, Ancient Greek, and Classical Studies modules across all levels of undergraduate and postgraduate study. At Newcastle, I taught over twenty modules including popular and award-winning research-led options 'Dreams and Dreaming in the Ancient World' and 'Exploring the Underworld'. I also contributed to English Literature and Archaeology modules. I often deliver curricular and extra-curricular sessions for Primary and Secondary schools and home education groups, as well as CPD on ancient world topics for teachers and museums.

At the OU, I am currently involved in A340 The Roman Empire and A112 Cultures. 

A large part of my professional career is devoted to outreach and public engagement, and I often work in collaboration with local schools, arts and heritage partners, and national charities. I have extensive experience designing and facilitating creative public workshops for adults and children: recent projects have included investigating local Roman history through inscriptions, journeying through the Underworld, adventuring in the Ancient Egyptian afterlife, and even an evening of Ancient Greek necromancy. I recently also designed and curated my first museum exhibition, PSYCHE: Where does the soul go?, which combines ancient objects and creative practice to more playfully explore the question of life after death.

• Classical Association Teaching Board: Subject Advisory Group (Ancient Greek)
• External Examiner for Greek Language and Literature, University of Manchester
• Classics for All Trainer (Newcastle/NE)
• Hadrian’s Wall Learning & Engagement Forum member
• Trustee, Helix Arts
• Group for Education in Museums
• International Association for Presocratic Studies 
• International Association for the Study of Dreams