It has been said that Thucydides is often quoted but rarely read – which is indeed a pity. His masterwork, the Peloponnesian War, is the first (and in some ways the greatest) example of a critical analysis of historical events. At the same time, it is a tragedy in the tradition of the iconic Athenian playwrights, in which the heights and depths of human nature are explored. In this class, we will devote ourselves to a close reading of this work, to grapple with Thucydides’ insights into our enduring dilemmas as citizens – reconciling the demands of justice and expediency, freedom and security, and popular consensus and individual wisdom.
Class Time: Wednesdays, 7-9pm ET
Term Dates: Week of October 5 – November 6
Credits: Seminar | 1 credit
Instructor: Dr. Frank Russel
Price:
- For Credit: $250
- No Credit (Audit): $100
