THE BACKGROUND OF THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE "EDUCATIONAL GROUP" (EKPAIDEFTIKÓS OMILOS) (EO) THROUGH THE LETTERS OF THE FOUNDERS OF THE EO AND ITS PIONEERS

Abstract

The intense reflection by Greek intellectuals on the state of education led to communication among them, the publication of magazines and the utilization of Delmouzos’s experience with the operation of the Higher Girls' School of Volos (APB). The purpose of this article is to explore the background of the later collaborators of the EO, revealing the ideological ferments through the correspondence of its first key executives. The EO assumed the role of preparing society for the acceptance of reform within the context of educational demoticism and the government of Venizelos. The group was founded in 1910, following an agreement between key figures, and included several intellectuals - some modernists and most of whom Terzis describes as idlers. The foundation took place under the initiative of Tsirimokos and Dragoumis, who promptly brought in Delmouzos, Karkavitsas, Fotiadis, Petrokokkinos. Triantafyllidis and Glinos joined in 1912, upon their return from Germany, and immediately took action.

The Group’s goal was to reform education through a thorough study of the existing situation, enlightening teachers and society on educational practices and preparing relevant publications. The EO’s activities from 1910 to 1930 included drafting programs for Greek schools, editing and publishing books and brochures, and organizing educational outreach through speeches, and lectures both within and beyond the Club’s premises.

The action of the EO from 1910 to 1930 concerns the compilation of programs for Greek schools, the editing and publication of books, pamphlets, and the organization of the enlightening work with speeches, lectures and not only.