The Homeric Gods and Their First Philosophical Critics

Dr Simon Trépanier (PhD)
Senior Lecturer in Classics, University of Edinburgh

Seminar Overview

A four-part seminar series tracing the emergence of philosophical theology in early Greek thought, from Xenophanes to Empedocles.

Seminar Structure and Topics

1. Greek Religion: From Homer to Cult and a First Critic- Xenophanes
   Overview: An introduction to Greek religion, from the Homeric gods to standard cult practice, concluding with Xenophanes’ critique and reformed theology.
   Optional pre-reading: Kirk & Raven (1957), pp. 163–181.

2. Nature and the Gods Harmonised: Ionian Science in Heraclitus
   Overview: Heraclitus’ integration of Ionian science with religious thought, and his critique of popular attitudes to the Divine.
   Optional pre-reading: Kirk & Raven (1957), pp. 182–216.

3. Supernatural Gods: Plato’s Metaphysics and Theology in the Phaedo
   Overview: Plato’s conception of Forms and souls, and his metaphysical expansion of earlier theology.
   Optional pre-reading: Phaedo 95a4–102a, 107c–115a8.

4. A Presocratic Problem Case: Empedocles on the Divine Daimones
   Overview: Reconciling Empedocles’ materialist physics with his doctrines of reincarnation and the celestial afterlife.
   Optional pre-reading: Kirk & Raven (1957), pp. 320-362