Ellen (Greekgeek)

With MAs in classics and mythology, I've got one foot in the ancient world. The scientists in my family gave me a fascination for astronomy, computers and geology, so I've got one foot in the new.

That's why I write on everything from ancient Greece to outer space. My goal is to take the nerdy things I've studied and turn them into fascinating, fun, "Wow, that's really interesting!" online reading.

I've studied SEO partly to learn how the web works, and partly because I need earn enough to keep food in the cat dish.

Note: Profile photo © Jon Williams Photography, used with permission. All Rights Reserved.

In the Spotlight

You Are Here: And It's An Amazing Place

Every time you step outside, you're experiencing a miracle. Pause a moment to contemplate just where you're standing.

In the Spotlight

Latin Spells in Harry Potter: Translation and Meanings

My translation of the Latin spells in Harry Potter: not what they do, but what the Latin words mean. Includes a trivia quiz for those studying for their OWLs.

In the Spotlight

New Horizons Has Reached Pluto! What Has It Discovered?

After a 9-year journey of almost 3 billion miles, the New Horizons Spacecraft has reached Pluto and is sending back images of the mini world and its moons even now. Find out what's being discovered!

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  22
  owlcation.com

  The Story of Laika, the First Dog in Space

  2 years ago

  Laika the dog was the first living creature from Earth to reach outer space. Her story was tragic.

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  15
  hobbylark.com

  Meanings of Latin and Greek Names in "Harry Potter"

  2 years ago

  Curious what Bellatrix means? How about Karkaroff? Let's take a look at the meanings and origins of some of the character names in "Harry Potter!"

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  18
  owlcation.com

  What's an Abject Lesson vs. an Object Lesson?

  2 years ago

  Abject lesson or object lesson? Which is correct? Learn the meaning of the phrase "object lesson" and why you should shun "abject lessons."

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  11
  Humanities

  Latin Review 1: First Declension, Cases

  13 years ago

  Introduction and mini-quizzes on the Latin first declension and the basic uses of the six Latin cases.

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  26
  hobbylark.com

  Latin Spells in Harry Potter: Translation and Meanings

  2 years ago

  My translation of the Latin spells in Harry Potter: not what they do, but what the Latin words mean. Includes a trivia quiz for those studying for their OWLs.

• 
  24
  owlcation.com

  The Meaning of "Expecto Patronum": From Hogwarts to Ancient Rome!

  2 years ago

  Okay, class, put down your wands! Let's have a little Latin language lesson so we can better understand Harry Potter.

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  38
  owlcation.com

  If the Massive Solar Flare of 1859 (the "Carrington Flare") Happened Today...

  2 years ago

  A solar flare in 1859 caused power spikes and disrupted the world's telegraph system. How much damage could a massive solar flare do to power and communications today?