People of Greek Heritage

This chapter presents two groups of people with Greek heritage. The first group refers to those or their ancestors who emigrated from Greece, the second group originated in Cyprus. Both groups have a common history, language, and religion. Greece, a small country in southern Europe, enjoys a climate similar to that of southern California. The characteristics of members of the Greek and Greek Cypriot communities vary according to acculturation, individuality, and the variant characteristics of culture. The core values of philotimo (honor and respect) and endropi (shame) are key when considering the experience of Greeks and Greek Cypriots. Although values of honor and shame are found in all societies, they are particularly important among Mediterranean groups.