Philosophy

Ancient Philosophy

Module code: V5015
Level 5
15 credits in autumn semester
Teaching method: Seminar, Lecture
Assessment modes: Essay

On this module, you'll look at central themes in the works of Philosophers such as Heraclitus, Parmenides, Plato, Aristotle, and members of later Hellenistic schools (Epicureans, Stoics, and Sceptics). 

You'll learn about:

• the cosmic elements in Presocratic philosophy
• the philosophical function of the Platonic dialogue
• Plato's theory of forms and the good
• the nature of the soul and of knowledge
• the critique of art
• Aristotle's conception of metaphysics
• theories of eudaimonia or human flourishing.

 

Module learning outcomes

• Demonstrate that they are familiar with the central themes of ancient philosophy.
• Show an understanding of the place of texts from ancient philosophy in the history of philosophy.
• Critically engage with texts from ancient philosophy.
• Defend a thesis that relates to texts from ancient philosophy.