The Invention of History, Philosophy, and Tragedy: Athens 460-380 BCE

The Classical Seminar Series
Over the coming months, The Classical Institute will present a four-part seminar series exploring the great works of fifth-century BCE Athens — a remarkable moment in intellectual history. Participants may register for the full series (£75) or individual seminars (£25 each).

Seminar 1: Herodotus and the Invention of History
Herodotus’ Histories marks the birth of history as enquiry. This seminar considers the opening and closing of the work to explore his method and purpose, moving from myth to Marathon, from Egypt to the ‘Tin Islands’.

Seminar 2: Sophocles’ Antigone and Obedience to the Law
Sophocles’ Antigone confronts the tension between civic authority and divine law. This seminar examines the passages where Antigone defends her actions and accepts her fate.

Seminar 3: Thucydides and the Reality of War
In the Peloponnesian War, Thucydides crafts a “possession for all time.” This seminar explores how his history addresses leadership, democracy, rhetoric, and morality under the pressure of war.

Seminar 4: Plato’s Crito and the Duty to Obey
In the Crito, Socrates refuses to escape prison, choosing instead to obey the laws of Athens. This seminar examines the dialogue’s central arguments about justice, duty, and the rule of law.