Christianity and Philosophy in Antiquity

Course Description

Embark on a fascinating journey through time with our course, "Christianity and Philosophy in Antiquity." This introductory-level course delves into the intricate relationship between early Christianity and ancient philosophy, exploring how these two powerful intellectual traditions shaped each other and the world we know today.

What Students Will Learn

• Analyze the formation of Christian doctrine within the context of its confrontation with philosophy in antiquity.
• Describe the polemics and convergence between Christians and philosophers.
• Identify the practical methods of producing and transmitting philosophical and religious ideas in antiquity.
• Understand the origins of Christianity and the intellectual landscape of the Roman Empire.
• Explore the central aspects of Christian doctrine and their philosophical roots.
• Examine the role of Christianity in the history of philosophy.

Pre-requisites

Proficiency in French at the Baccalaureate level.

Course Content

• The historical confrontation between Christianity and philosophy in antiquity
• The role of this confrontation in shaping Christian doctrine
• Polemics between Christians and philosophers
• The adoption of philosophical concepts and reasoning by Christians
• Christianity and philosophy as competing paths to truth
• The debt of Christianity to ancient philosophy
• The impact of Christianity on the history of philosophy
• Practical aspects of idea production and transmission in antiquity (papyrus, manuscripts)
• Insights from specialists in various related fields

Who This Course Is For

This course is ideal for students of history, philosophy, religious studies, or anyone interested in understanding the intellectual foundations of Western civilization. It's perfect for those curious about the interplay between religion and philosophy, and how these forces shaped our modern world.

Real-World Applications

The skills and knowledge gained from this course will enhance critical thinking, analytical abilities, and provide a deeper understanding of the historical and philosophical roots of Western thought. These insights can be applied in various fields, including:

• Academic research in history, philosophy, or religious studies
• Journalism and writing on topics related to religion and philosophy
• Cultural heritage and museum work
• Interfaith dialogue and conflict resolution
• Education and teaching in humanities subjects
• Public policy and diplomacy, especially in areas involving religious and cultural considerations

Syllabus Overview

1. Introduction to early Christianity and the intellectual world of the Roman Empire
2. The philosophical landscape of antiquity
3. Early Christian encounters with philosophy
4. Polemics between Christians and philosophers
5. Philosophical concepts adopted by Christian thinkers
6. The development of Christian doctrine through philosophical engagement
7. Christianity's impact on the history of philosophy
8. Methods of idea production and transmission in antiquity
9. Guest lectures by specialists in related fields
10. Conclusion: The legacy of the Christianity-philosophy interaction in antiquity