OVERVIEW

The course involves the analysis—preceded by a comprehensive historical and philosophical introduction—of one or more significant ancient Greek or Latin texts, with exegetical and thematic commentary, focusing on their importance in the history of ancient philosophical and scientific thought.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The teaching of History of Ancient Thought aims to acquire knowledge of a specialist theme in the history of philosophy and Greek and Latin culture, which is explored in depth through the reading of one or more ancient texts, introduced and commented on. The objective of the course is also the acquisition of a scientific research method starting from the texts themselves, interrogated from the point of view of the lexicon, the argumentative structures and the historical-cultural context from which they originate, with essential references to selected secondary literature .

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

Knowledge and Understanding
The course aims to deepen students’ understanding of a significant moment or theme in the history of ancient thought through the reading of selected works, which will be appropriately introduced, interpreted, and critically discussed. A thorough historical and philosophical contextualization of the texts will enable students to enhance their knowledge and broaden their grasp of the development of philosophy and scientific thought in the Greco-Roman world.

Applying Knowledge and Understanding
Students will have the opportunity to acquire a rigorous method for studying the history of ancient thought, with essential guidance on research tools—especially those related to digital lexica and bibliographic databases. Through these resources, and by learning a scientifically grounded research methodology, students will be able to formulate independent reflections supported by strong textual evidence and engage with various theoretical perspectives across ancient philosophical traditions..

Independent Judgment
By acquiring a scientific research method and applying tools for textual analysis and interpretation, students will be able to enhance their critical thinking and develop greater autonomy of judgment. This will also enable them to identify and select relevant textual sources in relation to specific research topics and lines of inquiry.

Communication Skills
Mastery of a solid, research-based method for reconstructing ancient philosophical debates will strengthen students' ability to communicate complex ideas effectively. This includes the ability to present the results of their research and original reflections—both in writing and through digital platforms—in a clear, well-structured, and nuanced manner.

Learning Skills
By acquiring the research tools and scientific methods outlined above, students will be equipped to understand and interpret complex texts, particularly in relation to their specific argumentative strategies.

PREREQUISITES

Basic knowledge of Greek and Latin thought from the 7th century BC to the 6th century AD. Familiarity with the Greek alphabet. Proficiency in the philosophical vocabulary of Greek and Roman antiquity. The ability to express oneself clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing, using precise language and strong argumentative skills when discussing key moments and themes in Greek and Latin philosophy, science, and culture.

TEACHING METHODS

Lectures will be held in person. Although attendance is not mandatory, it is strongly recommended. Students who attend the lectures in person will be considered as attending. Those unable to attend are kindly asked to contact Prof. Abbate via email to arrange an alternative syllabus for non-attending students.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

The course will focus on the central books of Plato’s Republic—namely, Books V through VII. Particular attention will be devoted to the analysis and interpretation of the Sun analogy in Book VI and the Allegory of the Cave in Book VII. In addition to examining key ontological and metaphysical themes, the course will also address terminological, linguistic, and textual issues of particular interest from both a philosophical and exegetical perspective.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Required Texts:

– F. Ferrari, La Repubblica di Platone, il Mulino, Bologna 2022.

—Platone, La Repubblica.

Recommended Translation of Plato's Republic (other translations are also acceptable):  Platone, La Repubblica, a cura di M. Veggetti, Bur, Milano 2007 (Books V, VI, VII).

Suggested Reading:

– F. Ferrari, Introduzione a Platone, il Mulino, Bologna 2018.

Further bibliographic references will be provided during the lectures.

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

LESSONS

LESSONS START

https://corsi.unige.it/corsi/8465/studenti-orario

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

Oral examination consisting of questions on topics covered during the lectures.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

Students are expected to show their preparation by answering questions on each part of the course programme.

Particular importance will be given to the student's skill in formulating personal considerations and connections supported by reference to the texts examined.

FURTHER INFORMATION

For further information, students are invited to contact Prof. Abbate by email.