Homer: Ancient Greek Tragedy to Modern Film
Course summary
Join us for this ten-week philosophy course as we explore how Homer both reflects and shapes human thought. From Greek tragedy to contemporary film, we will examine how artists and filmmakers convey deep philosophical ideas through language, performance, and the power of storytelling. Throughout the course, we will study The Iliad (1998) and The Odyssey (1996) in depth, considering the themes of human nature, political authority, the role of women, and much more.
Aims
The aim of the course is to provide an enjoyable, interactive, and stimulating learning environment in which to explore new ideas. Homer's works contain a wealth of psychological insight, offering tools that can be used in many areas of life, from gaining a better understanding of personal issues to developing an appreciation of art and the great works of literary history.
Learning outcomes
By the end of this course, you should be able to:
- describe what makes ‘drama’ different to other art forms
- discuss the ideas and themes in some of the Ancient Greek works
- better understand modern theatre and contemporary film on Homer
- apply the philosophical ideas presented in the course to other examples of plays and film.
Content
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 The Iliad (1998)
- Justice and honour
- Human nature and Greek Arete
- Epistemology
Philosophical concepts in The Odyssey (1996)
- 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 Homer's monumental influence on the history of Western literature, his ideas resonate though Western philosophy in the works of philosophers such as Machiavelli and Nietzsche.
Who this course is for
Anyone with a general interest in philosophy and the course themes.
Prerequisites
None
Delivery style
Lecture/seminar
Materials
Course handouts and readings are distributed electronically using Dropbox.
Recommended reading
Homer (1998) The Iliad. Translated by R. Fagles. New York: Penguin Classics.
Homer (1996) The Odyssey. Translated by R. Fagles. New York: Penguin Classics.
Upcoming classes
<p>Join us for this ten-week philosophy course as we explore how Homer both reflects and shapes human thought. From Greek tragedy to contemporary film, we will examine how artists and filmmakers
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