Classical Studies

Plato

Plato & Democracy

Democracy is arguably the dominant political system in the world today. Some would regard it as heresy even to question democracy as a form of government. Yet this is not the view of Plato, one of the wisest thinkers of antiquity.

Plato & Justice

Justice is a matter of vital importance in a country with a history like South Africa’s. It is enshrined in our constitution as a fundamental value, together with freedom, dignity and equality.

Ancient Greek Literature

Module 1: Homer's Iliad

Consequences of Anger as illustrated in Homer’s Iliad. This study is based on the hypothesis that the emotions can add ethical value to our own lives and therefore to society.

Module 2: Homer's Odyssey

Emotive Quests as illustrated in Homer’s Odyssey. Two emotive quests will be explored in Homer’s Odyssey: A man wanting to find his way Home and a young man wishing to find his Father.

Shakespeare

Module 1

Philosophical aspects of Shakespeare will be studied, including:

• The universalism of Shakespeare. Historical background of the Elizabethan era.
• The rising tide of discovery and knowledge.
• Shakespeare and Sound. The significance of sound – the first manifestation of consciousness.
• Shakespeare and characterisation.
• Shakespeare and Law. Cause and effect in Shakespeare.

Module 2

Specific plays will be examined including:

• Richard II.
• Henry IV.
• Hamlet.

As well as eternal principles:

• Role models for leadership.
• What makes the “to be or not to be” soliloquy relevant for each of us right now.
• Love as the natural in between.
• Consciousness as the underlying ground of being in Shakespeare.
• The journey inward to pure spirit.

Ficino

Advice to the 21st Century

Marsilio Ficino, arguably the single most influential individual of the Italian Renaissance, provides practical guidelines for day to day life.