Monstrosity and Philosophy: Radical Otherness in Greek and Latin Culture

Filippo Del Lucchese explores the concept of monstrosity in ancient philosophy and culture, showing how it is one of the main conceptual challenges for every philosophical system. He covers major figures from Hesiod to Augustine, exploring metaphysics, ontology, theology, and politics as they respond to the threats presented by the radical alterity of monstrous manifestations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 432 pages
Publication date: 31 August 2021
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

In ancient philosophy and culture, the concept of monstrosity holds a profound significance, spanning across the vast expanse of Greek and Latin civilization, both pagan and early Christian. Filippo Del Lucchese, in his comprehensive work, takes a continental approach, delving into the rich tapestry of ancient thought. From the revered figures of Hesiod to the influential Augustine, and from the pioneering thinkers of Democritus to the esteemed philosophers Plato, Aristotle, Epicurus, and Lucretius, Del Lucchese explores the diverse spectrum of ancient philosophy. He encompasses the Stoics and Sceptics, the Middle Platonists, the Neoplatonists, and the early Fathers, unraveling the intricate web of ideas that shaped this intellectual landscape.

What sets Del Lucchese's work apart is his unwavering commitment to demonstrating that monstrosity is not a mere peripheral issue but rather one of the central conceptual challenges that confronts every philosophical system. He unveils how ancient philosophers engage with metaphysics, ontology, theology, and politics, as they grapple with the profound implications of the radical alterity of monstrous manifestations, both in nature and in thought. Through meticulous analysis and thoughtful exploration, Del Lucchese sheds light on the ways in which these philosophers sought to understand and navigate the complexities of the monstrous, employing a range of philosophical tools and methodologies to unravel the mysteries that lay within.

In this intricate tapestry of ideas, Del Lucchese reveals the profound interconnectedness of monstrosity with metaphysics, ontology, theology, and politics. He demonstrates how ancient philosophers sought to understand the nature of being, the origins of existence, and the moral and ethical implications of the monstrous. They explored the boundaries of human understanding, challenging the traditional notions of what it means to be human and exploring the potential for transcendence and redemption amidst the chaos and horror of the monstrous.

Del Lucchese's work is a testament to the enduring relevance of ancient philosophy and its ability to shed light on the complexities of human existence. By delving into the concept of monstrosity, he invites us to reevaluate our own beliefs and assumptions, challenging us to think beyond the boundaries of our own experiences and engage with the broader philosophical discourse. Through his meticulous scholarship and engaging writing, Del Lucchese provides a valuable contribution to the field of ancient philosophy, offering a fresh perspective on the challenges and rewards of confronting the monstrous.

Weight: 652g
Dimension: 154 x 233 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474456210