Overview

Introduction to Ancient Philosophy is a dynamic and reflective module that explores the foundations of Western philosophy through the study of key ancient thinkers. Beginning with the Pre-Socratics, it journeys through the thought of Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, and later schools such as the Stoics and Epicureans. Students will engage with enduring questions about justice, identity, the soul, politics, nature, and the environment - questions that remain deeply relevant today. The module invites students not only to understand these ideas in their historical context but also to reflect on their continued influence in areas such as ethics, human rights, and sustainability. Through close reading, discussion, and critical analysis, students will consider how ancient philosophy can illuminate modern dilemmas and enrich personal and societal reflection. The course encourages the development of thoughtful, open-minded perspectives and a deeper appreciation of the long conversation between past and present.

This module provides a thematic and chronological introduction to Ancient Philosophy, focusing on key figures and schools of thought that shaped Western intellectual traditions.

We begin with the Pre-Socratics, exploring early attempts to understand the cosmos, nature, and the origins of reality. We then turn to Socrates and his ethical questioning, followed by an in-depth study of Plato’s dialogues, examining his views on justice, the soul, knowledge, and the ideal society. Aristotle’s more systematic approach is explored next, covering logic, ethics, politics, and natural philosophy.

The second half of the course examines later developments in Hellenistic philosophy, including Stoicism, Epicureanism, and Skepticism. These schools are studied through their responses to questions of human flourishing, reason, desire, and freedom.

Throughout, the module emphasises key themes such as identity, justice, politics, the environment, and metaphysics. Students will engage with primary texts in translation and learn to analyse arguments, think critically, and draw connections between ancient and contemporary thought.

Throughout the module, we will consider the lasting legacy of ancient philosophy and its relevance in today’s world, encouraging students to reflect on how ancient wisdom still speaks to modern dilemmas and debates. From environmental challenges to the growth of AI, we will explore many fascinating aspects.

Assessment Strategy

Threshold: D- to D +.

Submitted work is adequate and shows an acceptable level of competence as follows: •Generally accurate but with omissions and errors. •Assertions are made without clear supporting evidence or reasoning. •Has structure but is lacking in clarity and therefore relies on the reader to make links and assumptions. •Draws on a relatively narrow range of material.

Good: C- to C +.

•Submitted work is competent throughout and occasionally distinguished by superior style, approach and choice of supporting materials. It demonstrates: Good structure and logically developed arguments. • At least in parts draws on material that has been sourced and assessed as a result of independent study, or in a way unique to the student. • Assertions are, in the main, backed by evidence and sound reasoning. • Accuracy and presentation in an appropriate academic style.

Very Good B- to B+.

Submitted work is competent throughout and distinguished by superior style, approach and choice of supporting materials. It demonstrates: •Very good structure and logically developed arguments. • Draws on material that has been sourced and assessed as a result of independent study, or in a way unique to the student. • Assertions are backed by evidence and sound reasoning. • Accuracy and presentation in an appropriate academic style.

Excellent: A- to A*.

Submitted work is of an outstanding quality and excellent in one or more of the following ways: •Has originality of exposition with the student’s own thinking being readily apparent. •Provides clear evidence of extensive and relevant independent study. •Arguments are laid down with clarity and provide the reader with successive stages of consideration to reach conclusions.

Learning Outcomes

• Communicate philosophical ideas clearly and coherently in both oral and written forms, demonstrating developing skills in interpretation, analysis, and argumentation.

• Demonstrate a foundational understanding of key themes in ancient philosophy, including justice, the soul, nature, ethics, and political thought, with particular reference to thinkers such as Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, and the Hellenistic schools.

• Engage critically with Plato’s Republic, including the theory of the Forms, the tripartite soul, and the concept of justice, and understand the significance of the dialogue form in presenting philosophical arguments.

• Reflect on the relevance of ancient philosophical ideas to contemporary debates, including issues such as environmentalism, artificial intelligence, and human rights.

• Show an awareness of the complexity, ambiguity, and rhetorical style involved in ancient philosophical texts, especially those written as dialogues.