History of Philosophy Without Any Gaps HoP 313 - Queen of the Sciences - Anna Komnene and her Circle
Dec 2, 2018
Dive into the world of Anna Komnene, a remarkable Byzantine princess who transitioned from politics to academia. Discover how she gathered a circle of scholars dedicated to crafting new commentaries on Aristotle. Explore her groundbreaking work, the Alexiad, and her battle against societal biases in a male-dominated culture. The discussion also highlights the dynamic interplay of Aristotelian thought and Neoplatonism, showcasing the intellectual rigor of figures like Eustratius and Michael of Ephesus.
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Anna's Scholarly Circle
- Anna Komnene gathered scholars to comment on Aristotle during her political retirement.
- Her circle included Eustratius of Nicaea and Michael of Ephesus, praised for their dedication.
Anna's Careful Study of Pagan Philosophy
- Anna studied Greek literature, Aristotle, and Plato with critical distance despite parental disapproval.
- She fortified herself against the corrupting aspects of pagan philosophy while embracing its learning.
Hellenic Culture as Power Symbol
- Anna promoted Hellenic culture to assert Byzantine superiority over Muslim and Western Christian neighbors.
- Mastery of Greek rhetoric and Aristotelian logic marked cultural refinement and political prestige in Byzantium.
