Skip to main content
KBS_Icon_questionmark link-ico
Study Abroad at King’s
Study

Go to…

Ancient and Medieval Philosophy

Key information

  • Module code:

    7AAN6018

  • Level:

    7

  • Semester:

      Spring

  • Credit value:

    15

Module description

This module examines the connections between key philosophical ideas and debates from the ancient and medieval periods, especially how the medieval theological commitments coloured the reception of key Aristotelian positions. Issues addressed may include: the problem of change, questions about the mortality of the soul, the role of the divine in ethics and the corresponding account of virtue, the connection between the divine and natural philosophy, and the question of the extent of divine and human knowledge. Students will develop skills in the close reading and philosophical analysis of historical texts.

Assessment details

Summative: Essay, 3500 words (100%)

Formative: Essay, 2000-3000 words

Educational aims & objectives

  • To become familiar with the rich philosophical traditions of the ancient and medieval periods.
  • To examine the connections and developments between ancient and medieval periods.
  • To engage with thinkers from a range of traditions and develop skills in the close reading and philosophical analysis of historical texts.

Learning outcomes

  • Knowledge of the rich philosophical traditions of the ancient and medieval periods.
  • Understanding of the connections and developments between ancient and medieval periods.
  • Ability to engage with thinkers from a range of traditions and perform close reading and philosophical analysis of historical texts.

Teaching pattern

One weekly one-hour lecture and one weekly one-hour seminar over 10 weeks.

Subject areas

Department

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.