Great Writings of Early Europe in Christian Perspective

Course Description

This course focuses on the great writings of Greco--Latin tradition. Students will read from the Pre-Socratics to Thomas Aquinas with a distinct focus on logic, ethics, epistemology, ontology, and metaphysics. The course compares these writings with selected writings from the Bible. Students will read, annotate, and discuss texts with the goal of developing a rich understanding of the relationship between them in early Christian thought.

Required Textbooks

Course Learning Outcomes

• Develop a philosophical and theological understanding of the great writings of the Greco-Latin tradition — from the Pre-Socratics through Plato, Aristotle, Augustine, Anselm, and Thomas Aquinas — with focused attention to logic, ethics, epistemology, ontology, and metaphysics.
• Compare these classical and patristic writings with selected biblical texts in order to articulate the formation of early Christian thought and the enduring relationship between Athens and Jerusalem in the Western intellectual tradition.
• Practice close reading, careful annotation, Socratic discussion, and critical philosophical-theological writing on primary texts — demonstrating the ability to engage early Christian and pre-Christian sources in historical, biblical, and philosophical context.

Assignments & Grading

Course Schedule

Attendance Policy

Students are expected to attend all scheduled class sessions. Attendance will be taken at the beginning of each class. More than three unexcused absences may result in a grade reduction. If you must miss a class, please notify the instructor in advance. Excused absences require documentation (e.g., medical note, family emergency).

Late Work Policy

Late assignments will be accepted up to 48 hours after the deadline with a 10% penalty per day. After 48 hours, late submissions will not be accepted without prior arrangement with the instructor. Extensions may be granted on a case-by-case basis for documented emergencies.

Academic Integrity & Honor Code

All students are expected to maintain the highest standards of academic honesty. Plagiarism, cheating, and other forms of academic dishonesty are strictly prohibited. Any violation will result in a failing grade for the assignment and may lead to further disciplinary action. When in doubt, cite your sources and consult the instructor.