Paavo Hohti, whose career at the Finnish Cultural Foundation spanned almost a quarter of a century, already became interested in ancient languages when attending upper secondary school in Joensuu. The young man became so enamoured with Classical philology that after his matriculation examination he moved, via the Summer University…

Paavo Hohti believes that close relations between professors and students played an increasing role as his studies progressed. In a relatively small group, everybody knew one another and professors were personally involved. Of his Greek Literature teachers, Hohti mentions Henrik Zilliacus and Holger Thesleff.

As a student, the classical philologist Paavo Hohti was particularly interested in rhetoric and historical writing in the ancient world, two things which Cicero in his day had already considered closely linked. Hohti considers his 1976 doctoral dissertation on the Histories by Herodotus to be his most rewarding experience as a researcher. The central theme of the dissertation is the connection between words and deeds.

Paavo Hohti, Professor of Classical philology and advocate for the humanities, wonders how students of the humanities will get by in these tough economic times and deal with increasing competition.

Paavo Hohti, who has spent much of his career managing the Finnish Cultural Foundation, advises students pursuing academic funding to concentrate on a reasoned presentation of both the project and the researcher in their application.

Paavo Hohti enjoys hunting and fishing in his spare time, and running the Linkkumylly holiday resort together with his wife Kristiina Hohti has brought much joy to the couple.