History of Ancient Philosophy (MA)

The course aims to offer a clear overview of the history of ancient philosophy, along with the ability to analyze and interpret the most significant texts of the most importantly referenced authors. It also aims to make the student become aware of historical perspective and distance, as well as the problems associated with it (with particular reference to the use of historiographic awareness for the purposes of modern philosophical research). Finally, the course aims to provide lexical and conceptual tools suitable for historical-philosophical communication, with particular reference to ancient thinking, both scientific and popular.

Knowledge:
In-depth knowledge of the history of ancient philosophy through direct interaction with the texts of fundamental classical authors, such as Plato and Aristotle.
A sure understanding of the theoretical and historical significance of the texts addressed in lessons and a more general understanding of some of the central connection of ancient thought with full awareness of the transformation over time of the concepts and the argumentative forms in relation to language and reality.
Skills: Ability to critically apply the knowledge learned in reading and commenting on ancient philosophical texts of a certain complexity, framing them historically.
Ability to apply the acquired knowledge on ancient thinking, specifically on the relationship between language and reality, to the analysis of new textual and theoretical places compared to those addressed in the lesson.
Students opting not to attend the lessons will be able to make use of the educational tools provided by the instructor on Ariel, deepen their knowledge of main topics through special readings with the agreement with the instructor, and of course contact the instructor either by e-mail and during office hours.