Academic English, English Fluency, Biblical/Spoken Hebrew, Greek/Latin

Ben S.

I’m Ben, a professional writer and classical philologist specializing in Hebrew (Modern and Biblical), Ancient Greek, Latin, English as a Second Language (ESL), and advanced academic writing. I work with a small number of students who are looking for serious, focused instruction in language, literature, and writing at a high level.

My teaching is centered on close reading, grammar, translation, and precise analytical writing. In languages, I work from introductory study through advanced textual engagement, including Biblical Hebrew narrative, Greek prose and poetry (Homer, Plato, tragedy), and Latin literature. In writing, I focus on argument structure, clarity of expression, and revision strategy at the college and graduate level.

My background is in literary publishing and editorial work. I’ve published in The Paris Review, Bookforum, and Artforum, and worked on the fiction selection process at The Paris Review. I was a writer-in-residence at Arabesque in Akko, Israel, and have worked as a freelance editor with the Deborah Harris Agency. My editorial work includes collaboration with authors whose books have appeared on the cover of The New York Times Book Review.

For ESL students, I offer structured, conversation-based sessions designed to build fluency while refining grammatical accuracy. For advanced learners, sessions become more discussion-driven and tailored to specific professional or academic needs.

I have taught and worked with students internationally, including in Israel, Palestine, and Morocco. This experience informs a flexible but rigorous approach that adapts to the student’s goals while maintaining high expectations for precision and progress.

I take on a limited number of students at any given time in order to keep instruction focused and individualized. If you’re looking for intensive, high-level tutoring in languages or writing, I’d be glad to work with you.