28017 - History of Ancient Philosophy (1) (LM)

Learning outcomes

"The course aims to lead students to an in-depth understanding of philosophical and cultural reflections in the ancient world. The goal is to help students recognize the coexistence and inherent plurality of ancient traditions of thought. In a broader perspective, the course seeks to trace the paths of an intellectual history—marked by the discontinuities of concrete historical contexts—that also opens up to concepts, problems, and ideas of the modern and contemporary eras. The study of the topics covered is intended to promote the development of skills useful for the philological analysis of texts and for the critical evaluation of secondary literature, both in terms of historical relevance and theoretical significance—skills that are essential to develop an adequate ability to argue exegetical and philosophical theses in oral and written form."

Course contents

(program for attending students. Students who do not attend the course should contact the instructor to arrange an alternative pogram.)

 

Provocative and polemical, Epicurus is often misunderstood. The aim of this course is to examine the fundamental aspects of his philosophy, with particular emphasis on his ethical thought, through a close analysis of the main arguments supporting his atomism and his hedonistic doctrine.

Readings/Bibliography

Anthology of texts (available on aula virtuale)

F. Verde, Epicuro, Carocci

Teaching methods

Lectures; participation and discussion will be encouraged.

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: April, May, June, September, October, November, December, January, and March.

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