Retrieving the Ancients: An Introduction to Greek Philosophy

Retrieving the Ancients provides an accessible introduction to ancient Greek philosophy, enhanced with new features and content. It offers a clear and engaging narrative of one of the most fertile periods in the history of human thought, organized chronologically and featuring an epilogue on Stoicism, Epicureanism, Skepticism, Cynicism, and other schools of thought. The second edition includes expanded online teaching resources and an appendix for students to write philosophically. It is an ideal textbook for introductory and intermediate undergraduate courses in Ancient Greek Philosophy and general courses in Ancient Philosophy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 09 March 2023
Publisher: John Wiley and Sons Ltd

Retrieving the Ancients: An Introduction to Greek Philosophy, Second Edition, is a comprehensive and accessible textbook that offers a captivating journey into the rich tapestry of ancient Greek philosophy. Written by renowned scholar David Roochnik, this second edition has been meticulously revised and updated to provide a fresh and engaging introduction to this fascinating subject.

The book is organized chronologically, beginning with the Ionian Philosophers of the sixth century and concluding with the works of Aristotle. Roochnik approaches Greek philosophy as an illuminating conversation, where each key thinker, including Thales, Pythagoras, Democritus, Socrates, and Plato, engages with, responds to, and moves beyond his predecessor. Throughout the text, Roochnik highlights how this conversation remains as relevant and urgent to modern readers as ever.

In addition to its chronological organization, Retrieving the Ancients features an entirely new epilogue that introduces Stoicism, Epicureanism, Skepticism, Cynicism, and various schools of thought that emerged after Aristotle. This appendix provides valuable resources for students to further explore these philosophical movements and their impact on the development of ancient Greek philosophy.

The second edition of Retrieving the Ancients also offers expanded online teaching resources for instructors. A downloadable web pack with sample syllabi is available, making it easier for educators to incorporate this textbook into their courses.

What sets Retrieving the Ancients apart is its compelling, readable, and humorous approach to ancient Greek philosophy. Roochnik's writing style is lively and engaging, making the subject accessible to students of all backgrounds and interests. He employs a dialectical approach, which encourages readers to critically engage with the ideas and arguments presented by the ancient philosophers. This approach not only helps students understand the complexities of ancient Greek philosophy but also equips them with the tools necessary to analyze and evaluate philosophical ideas in their own lives.

One of the key strengths of Retrieving the Ancients is its ability to illustrate how the works of the ancients are as valuable today as ever. Roochnik weaves contemporary examples and insights into his narrative, demonstrating how the philosophical questions raised by the ancient Greeks continue to shape our understanding of the world. Whether discussing the nature of reality, the role of ethics in society, or the origins of political philosophy, Roochnik's approach ensures that the ancient philosophers' ideas resonate with modern readers.

In addition to its introductory content, Retrieving the Ancients includes an accessible, modern introduction to Hellenistic philosophers, who were the first philosophers of the West to emerge after the decline of ancient Greece. This introduction provides a valuable context for students to understand the development of Greek philosophy and its influence on the broader philosophical tradition.

Retrieving the Ancients: An Introduction to Greek Philosophy, Second Edition, is an ideal textbook for introductory and intermediate undergraduate courses in Ancient Greek Philosophy, as well as general courses in Ancient Philosophy. Its comprehensive coverage, engaging writing style, and valuable teaching resources make it a valuable resource for students and scholars alike. Whether you are a beginner interested in exploring the foundations of Western philosophy or a seasoned scholar seeking to deepen your understanding of ancient Greek philosophy, this textbook will provide you with a rich and rewarding journey into the world of ancient Greek thought.

Weight: 363g
Dimension: 226 x 150 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781119892038
Edition number: 2 ed