Lucretius

3 units

In this course, we will read selections from Lucretius' epic-didactic poem ON THE NATURE OF THINGS. The poem explains the basic tenets of Epicurean philosophy with a focus on the physical structure of the universe, the nature of the soul, and why we shouldn't fear death. There are many things in Lucretius that feel scientific in a modern sense, such as atomism and the absence of the gods. In fact, he has been accused of inspiring the Scientific Enlightenment, a charge we will acquit him of in this class. Special attention will be given to how Lucretius uses myth and poetry, the influence of earlier Roman epic poets such as Ennius, and his relationship with earlier Greek sources. No prior knowledge of Epicureanism or any philosophy is necessary; Lucretius will be happy to explain everything to you.