Helen Karamalegou

Helen Karamalegou, a beacon of wisdom and passion for the world of classical literature, peacefully passed away on February 27, 2026, at the age of 72. Born on April 13, 1953, in the historic city of Constantinople, Helen's journey through life was one of remarkable achievement, boundless generosity, and unwavering dedication to the preservation and promotion of ancient cultures. Helen’s academic journey began with a fervent love for the classics, which led her to the prestigious University of Sorbonne. There, she had the privilege of studying under the esteemed classicist Pierre Grimal, who instilled in her a profound understanding and appreciation for Latin Literature. Under his mentorship, Helen completed her PhD, focusing on the rich tapestry of Latin texts. Her academic career flourished as she brought her enthusiasm and innovative spirit to the Republic of China, where she pioneered the BA Program in the Archaeology, History, and Literature of Ancient Greece (BAAG). Helen’s tenure at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens was marked by her leadership and vision. Serving as Head of the Department of Classical Literature from 2007 to 2009, and subsequently as Head of the Department of Philology from 2009 to 2013, Helen was instrumental in fostering an environment of scholarly excellence. Her role as Head of the School of Philosophy from 2013 to 2019, and as Head of the council of the School of Modern Greek Language from 2017 to 2022, further solidified her impact on the academic community. A dedicated Lecturer of Latin Language and Literature, Helen's career was characterized by her deep exploration of the literature of the late Res Publica and the Augustan era. Her scholarly contributions to Roman epic poetry, lyric poetry, and rhetoric are considered significant, leaving a lasting legacy in the field of Classical Studies. Helen’s life was a testament to her personal qualities—her courage and kindness were matched only by her open-mindedness and tireless work ethic. She was generous with people, nurturing countless students and colleagues with her wisdom and compassion. Her active engagement in the academic community was exemplary, inspiring all who were fortunate enough to know her. A service to honor and celebrate Helen’s life will be held on March 2, 2026, at 12:30 PM at Vironas Cemetery in Athens. Family, friends, colleagues, and students are invited to gather and remember the remarkable life of a woman who dedicated herself to the preservation of ancient knowledge and the betterment of her community. Helen Karamalegou’s legacy will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched. Her family, who cherished her dearly, offer this special message: "Forever in our hearts." May her memory be eternal, and may her contributions continue to inspire future generations.