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Instructor: James Lesher. This course meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30-10:45AM.

In this course we will explore the development of Greek philosophical thought from its beginnings in the 6th century BCE down to the end of the classical period. The major figures studied will be the Presocratic philosophers, Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle. The goal of the course is to become familiar with the main features of ancient Greek thought and the ways in which it helped to shape the philosophy, science, art, and literature of later centuries.

Required Text: Cohen, Curd, and Reeve, Readings in Ancient Greek Philosophy, 3rd edition. (Earlier editions have different contents and should not be purchased.)

Course format: Lecture and discussion. Requirements: one in-class exam, one substantial paper, and the final. Review questions handed out prior to each exam.

James Lesher’s webpage