12365 - History of Ancient Philosophy (2)

Learning outcomes

Three main objectives: (1) philological: to provide the essential tools for the study of ancient Greek and Roman philosophy; (2) dialectical: train to the discussion of a philosophical problem by examining ancient solutions compared to other solutions, particularly in modern and contemporary philosophy; (3) rhetorical: to provide a philosophical writing method aimed at preparing a written exercise on ancient philosophy.

Course contents

Platonic Love

One of Plato’s best-known dialogues, the Symposium also offers a privileged access point to his philosophy, exploring some of its fundamental themes, from the theory of the soul (and its immortality) to the theory of Ideas, passing through the question of desire.

Readings/Bibliography

Platone, Simposio, a cura di M. Nucci, Torino, Einaudi

A text of your choice from among:

F. Trabattoni, Platone, Roma, Carocci (N.B. collana ‘Pensatori’, pp. 220) – NB: if not already studied for History of Philosophy I

M. Vegetti, Platone. Quindici lezioni, Torino, Einaudi - NB: if not already studied for History of Philosophy I

M. Bonazzi, Creature d’un solo giorno. I greci e il mistero dell’esistenza, Torino, Einaudi

Students who, for justified reasons, are unable to attend classes must contact the lecturer to arrange an alternative programme.

Teaching methods

Lectures, with a close reading of Plato’s text

Assessment methods

Oral examination. The oral examination consists of an interview aimed at assessing the skills, critical abilities, and methodological competences acquired by the students based on the texts included in the syllabus.

During the academic year 2025/2026, there will be 9 exam sessions available for all students in the following months: May, June, September, October, November, December, January, and March, April.

Top marks (28-30) will be given to students who demonstrate a thorough knowledge of the material discussed in class and contained in the texts, critical and analytical skills, and the ability to express ideas and concepts clearly and cogently. Those students who will demonstrate a good knowledge of the material but tend to repeat it mechanically rather than demonstrate full understanding and the ability to build connections and present an argument will be rewarded with average to high marks (23-27). Students who demonstrate superficial knowledge, gaps in preparation, poor critical and analytical skills and difficulties of expression will receive average to low marks (18-22). Severe lacunae in one or more areas listed above could lead to the student repeating the exam.

Students with disabilities and Specific Learning Disorders (SLD)

Students with disabilities or Specific Learning Disorders have the right to special adjustments according to their condition, following an assessment by the Service for Students with Disabilities and SLD. Please do not contact the instructor but get in touch with the Service directly to schedule an appointment. It will be the responsibility of the Service to determine the appropriate adjustments. For more information, visit the page: https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en/for-students .

It is recommended that students contact the University office in advance. Any proposed adjustments must be submitted at least 15 days in advance for the instructor’s approval, who will evaluate their appropriateness in relation to the learning objectives of the course.

Teaching tools

Some texts of bibliography and eventual slides shown during the course will be available on Virtuale.

Office hours

See the website of Mauro Bonazzi