161-023 Medieval Philosophy

At least one single-semester first-year philosophy subject or permission from the Head of Department or the subject coordinator.

Thinking about human nature, the body, sex, death and the possibility of a transcendent dimension to life is still heavily influenced by medieval thought. In this subject this influence will be examined and criticised through a study of a range of philosophical texts. Students should gain the ability to understand and criticise philosophical texts from the 5th to the 13th centuries and bring to the investigation of certain contemporary philosophical problems an informed sense of the contributions made to their solution in the Middle Ages.

• develop the ability to analyse and criticize complex arguments;

• develop the ability to communicate the results of their work in a clear and well-argued form;

• develop the ability to bring philosophical skills to bear upon problems in other areas.

A written assignment of 2000 words 50% (due mid-semester), the second written assignment of 2000 words 47% (due at the end of semester) and tutorial participation 3%.