Philosophy 251 History of Western
Philosophy I: Ancient Greek Philosophy
Course Description: In this course, we will study the ethical and
metaphysical view of the ancient Greek philosophers, from the Presocratics to the
Hellenistics. We will consider the influence of the Greek philosophy on
contemporary views within the context of the radical changes that occurred at
the beginning of the modern period. The course objectives include becoming
familiar with Greek philosophy as well as basic philosophical concepts and
issues, and developing one’s reasoning skills.
Texts: 1. Cohen, Curd, and Reeve ed.
2. Sophocles. Oedipus Tyrannus. Trans. Peter
Meineck and Paul Woodruff.
3. Reading Packet (available in the Humanities Division
Office, Phil-Science 101)
Grading: Attendance and
Class Participation 10%
Short
Daily Quizzes 10%
Exams and
Regular Quizzes 60%
Writing
Assignments 20%
A 93-100
A- 90-92
B+ 87-89
B 83-86
B- 80-82
C+ 77-79
C 73-76
C- 70-72
D+ 67-69
D 60-66
F 0-60
1. Exams and
Regular Quizzes: There will be an in class
midterm and final exam and at least one regular quiz. These will include short
answer, long answer, and essay questions. Exams and quizzes will be taken in
the classroom, and in accordance with the guidelines of the honor code. I will
only allow each student to make up the midterm or a quiz. You must have a valid
excuse and make it up before the next session of class. Contact me as early as possible to make
arrangements.
2. Writing
Assignments: This will include a five-page
paper as well as shorter assignments. Students who have difficulties with
grammar or essay-writing should work with the tutors in the
3. Class
Participation and Daily Quizzes: Most of
our class time will be spent in discussion, and each student’s participation is
encouraged and expected. Informed participation requires a careful reading of
assigned texts ahead of class. In order
to encourage this, a short quiz on the reading assignment will be given at the
beginning of every class except for test days. No make-ups will be allowed.
4. Attendance: Prompt and consistent attendance is expected, and
is in your own interest because poor attendance and tardies will inevitably
affect your other grades. Also, I weigh attendance heavily when giving final
grades in borderline cases. Excessive absences will reduce your grade: To
receive an ‘A’, you must have less than 4 absences, for a ‘B’ less than 8, and
for a ‘C’ less than 12. Tardies and leaving early will be counted toward your
absences. I will accept valid reasons for missing class (e.g., a doctor’s note
for a serious illness), but will only excuse one half of the absence. If you
miss a class, I recommend that you make arrangements to copy the notes of
another student.