Professor Edith Hall, a leading expert on ancient Greece, and comedian Dan Schreiber explore the fascinating life of Aristotle. They discuss his transformation from student to philosopher, his groundbreaking contributions to biology, and the complexities of his mentorship of Alexander the Great. Their conversation is sprinkled with humor as they dissect Aristotle's philosophical ideas on ethics and happiness, while also critiquing his views on women and societal roles. This lively dialogue reveals Aristotle's immense impact on Western thought and invites reflection on his controversial legacy.
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Aristotle's Early Life and Family
Aristotle's father, Nicomachus, was a doctor, giving him a stable upbringing in Stagira.
After his parents died when he was 13, he moved to Turkey to live with his brother-in-law.
question_answer ANECDOTE
A Prodigy's Path
Aristotle's talent was recognized early, leading him to Plato's Academy in Athens at 17.
He excelled there, studying various subjects, including those Plato didn't prioritize, like natural science.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Life at Plato's Academy
At the academy, Aristotle was Plato's star pupil, even responding to challenges Plato posed.
Plato nicknamed him "The Brain" and "The Walking Library."
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In 'Poetics,' Aristotle discusses the nature of poetry, defining it as a form of imitation (mimesis) that uses language, rhythm, and harmony. He categorizes poetry into genres such as epic, tragedy, comedy, and dithyrambic poetry, and analyzes the components of a successful poetic work, including plot, character, thought, diction, song, and spectacle. The work is primarily concerned with tragedy, exploring its structure and the emotional release it provides through catharsis. Aristotle defends poetry against common objections and provides insights into the aesthetic principles and the role of art in human experience.
Impossible Things
Dan Schreiber
In 'Impossible Things', Dan Schreiber takes young readers on an eye-opening tour of bizarre and fascinating facts. The book is filled with unbelievable-but-true information and accompanied by humorous comic strips, making it perfect for curious children. It extends the theme of his popular podcast 'No Such Thing As A Fish', delving into the weird, wacky, and intriguing aspects of various subjects.
The Politics
The Politics
Aristotle
Aristotle's Politics is a foundational text in political philosophy, exploring various forms of government, citizenship, and the ideal state. It examines the nature of the polis (city-state), the role of the citizen, and the relationship between the individual and the community. Aristotle analyzes different political systems, including democracy, oligarchy, and monarchy, evaluating their strengths and weaknesses. He emphasizes the importance of a well-ordered state that promotes justice and the common good. The Politics has profoundly influenced political thought throughout history, shaping our understanding of governance and the ideal society.
Nicomachean Ethics
Aristotle
The Nicomachean Ethics is Aristotle's most renowned work on ethics, focusing on the science of the good for human life. The text is divided into ten books and discusses the concept of eudaimonia, often translated as 'happiness' or 'flourishing,' which is achieved through living a virtuous life. Aristotle argues that eudaimonia is an activity of the soul in accordance with virtue, emphasizing the importance of reason, moral virtues, and the pursuit of excellence. The work also explores the division of the soul, the role of rationality in human life, and the ultimate goal of human activity, which is to achieve happiness through virtuous actions and a complete life[1][2][4].
History of Animals
W. David Ross
J. I. Beare
Aristotle
In 'History of Animals,' Aristotle provides a detailed and systematic study of the anatomy, physiology, and behavior of various animal species. The work is divided into ten books and covers topics such as the classification of animals, their parts and organs, reproduction, and habitat. It is one of Aristotle's most significant contributions to the field of biology and remains an important work in the history of science.
Facing down the Furies
Edith Hall
Greg Jenner is joined in ancient Greece by Professor Edith Hall and comedian Dan Schreiber to learn all about famous philosopher Aristotle and his world changing ideas. Born a doctor’s son in the coastal settlement of Stagira, Aristotle would go on to revolutionise intellectual life in the west, writing on everything from theatre and the arts to politics, moral philosophy and zoology. After studying under Plato at his academy, Aristotle became a teacher himself, tutoring none other than a young Alexander the Great in Macedon before returning to Athens to found his own school, the Lyceum. And yet this extraordinary life came to an end in exile, after he was banished from his beloved Athens. This episode charts Aristotle’s incredible rise and fall, exploring his intellectual career and philosophical ideas alongside his friendships and romances, and asking whether despite his views on women and slavery he deserves the title of the greatest Greek philosopher.
If you’re a fan of ancient academic rivalries, bloodthirsty kings, and incredible scientific discoveries, you’ll love our episode on Aristotle.
If you want more Greek philosophers with Professor Edith, check out our episode on Pythagoras. And for more from Dan Schreiber, listen to our episode on Young Napoleon.
You’re Dead to Me is the comedy podcast that takes history seriously. Every episode, Greg Jenner brings together the best names in history and comedy to learn and laugh about the past.
Hosted by: Greg Jenner
Research by: Madeleine Bracey
Written by: Emmie Rose Price-Goodfellow, Emma Nagouse, and Greg Jenner
Produced by: Emmie Rose Price-Goodfellow and Greg Jenner
Audio Producer: Steve Hankey
Production Coordinator: Ben Hollands
Senior Producer: Emma Nagouse
Executive Editor: James Cook
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