noun
- People who love or admire Greek culture, language, or civilization.
Usage: Plural form of philhellene; Often used in historical contexts, especially regarding 19th-century European and American supporters of Greek independence
Examples
- The philhellenes of the Romantic era were inspired by ancient Greek ideals of democracy and beauty.
- Many European philhellenes supported Greece's struggle for independence from Ottoman rule in the 1820s.
- Lord Byron was among the most famous philhellenes of his time, championing the Greek cause.
- Philhellenes studied ancient Greek texts and sought to revive classical learning during the Renaissance.
- The philhellenes' passion for Greek culture influenced European art and literature throughout the 19th century.