Phil 375: Philosophy and Literature

Syllabus

• In this course, we will explore literature as a mode of philosophizing: that is to say, a way of doing philosophy. In many traditions of thought, novels, poetry, plays, comics, and other literary forms are used to explore and communicate philosophical theories and problems, to spark ideas and conversations, and to inspire change, both individual and social.

• In the first half of the semester, we will study and discuss a range of examples of philosophical literature, analysing their various techniques, strategies, strengths, and weaknesses. In the second half, students will create and workshop their own philosophical writing. Each student may choose their own preferred genre to write in.