Philosophical Themes in Homer - Iliad and Odyssey

The works of Homer are a foundation for Greek philosophy, poetry and political theory, this course will explore these themes in depth.  The Iliad explores themes such as: Justice and Honor; the difference between courage and wisdom; metaphysics and the Divine. The Odyssey explores: Human Nature, the role of women; knowledge and Epistemology. 

DELIVERY MODE

Online

SUGGESTED READING

• Homer's works: The Iliad and the Odyssey.
• Commentary essays will be provided in class via dropbox.

COURSE OUTLINE

• Introduction to Historical Background: We will begin with the evidence which we have about 'Homer' and the political/ social Greek world of his time.
• Philosophical Concepts in The Iliad will be explored first: Justice and Honor; Human Nature and Greek Arete; Epistemology.
• Philosophical Concepts in Odyssey: Practical Wisdom; The role of Women; Love and Duty; Metaphysics and the Divine.
• Homer's relationship to Greek Philosophy: We will explore his relationship to the beginnings of philosophy with the Nature philosophers, Plato and Aristotle.
• Enduring Influence: As well as his monumental influence on the history of Western literature, his ideas resonate though Western philosophy in the works of philosophers such as Machiavelli and Nietzsche.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

1. Identify the major philosophical themes in the works of Homer
2. Be able to discuss the complex structure of Homer's two great poems.
3. Be able to relate his ideas to the beginnings of Greek Philosophy.
4. See his connection to other philosophical traditions down to the contemporary world.