Eleni Glykatzis Arveli, who recently passed away just shy of a century, was much more than a distinguished Byzantine scholar; she represented a voice of rationality during tumultuous times. Her life, marked by intense personal journeys and historical encounters, illustrated that knowledge is not merely a privilege but a profound responsibility that comes with societal implications. Growing up in a tumultuous Greece, she had firsthand experience of the contradictions within history, shaping her perspective on the significance of education.

In 1953, Glykatzis Arveli moved to Paris, where she made a name for herself at the École des Hautes Études and later at CNRS, carving out a distinguished academic career. Her exceptional contributions led to her election as a professor at Sorbonne in 1967, and in 1976, she made history by becoming the first female Rector in the 700-year history of the University, a feat that highlighted her expertise over symbolic representation.

Glykatzis Arveli left behind a remarkable legacy reflecting a deep commitment to the importance of education, which she regarded as the antidote to societal crises. Her belief that education begins at home emphasizes the foundational role of early life experiences in shaping future generations and their responses to challenges. As society reflects on her life, the call for elevated educational standards echo her legacy, urging future scholars and citizens to acknowledge the responsibilities accompanying knowledge and learning.