History of Philosophy Without Any Gaps

Bessarion and George Trapenzuntius, rival scholars from the Greek east who helped inspire the Italian Renaissance.

Discover the fascinating intersection of philosophy and culture during the Italian Renaissance. The discussion reveals how the era is often misconceived as a mere rebirth, unearthing earlier intellectual revivals. Learn about the humanist movement and its role in civic life, alongside the impact of communal education. The revival of ancient texts, particularly those of Aristotle and Plato, sparked individualism and invigorated political conversations. It's a deep dive into how these themes shaped society and thought in a transformative period.

Join Michele Trizio, a research fellow at the University of Bari and expert in Byzantine and Latin Medieval Philosophy, as he unpacks the fascinating interplay between these two worlds. Discover how linguistic divides shaped the transmission of ideas and influenced thinkers like Aquinas and Augustine. Explore Aristotle's critique of Plato and the unique defense of Platonic ideals in the Byzantine context. Trizio also highlights the significant role Byzantine emigres played in Renaissance scholarship, weaving Greek traditions into the fabric of Western philosophy.

When the Byzantine empire ended in 1453, philosophy in Greek did not end with it. In this episode we bring the story up to the 20th century.

Explore the intriguing life of Gemistos Plethon, a key figure straddling Christian and pagan beliefs in Byzantine thought. Discover his unorthodox views on Neoplatonism and his visions for political reform. Delve into the philosophical clash between divine providence and determinism as it relates to ancient and Christian principles. Lastly, see how Plethon’s ideas influenced the Renaissance, linking the rich tapestry of Byzantine philosophy to modern thinking.

Explore how Thomas Aquinas's ideas captivated Byzantine scholars at a pivotal time in their empire. The podcast dives into the rich cultural exchanges between the Latin West and the Greek East during the Byzantine era, covering intense theological debates and controversies. Learn about the Hesychast controversy and the influence of Latin philosophers like Augustine. The discussion extends to the complex interplay between divine foreknowledge and human freedom, showcasing the dynamic intellectual landscape of medieval thought.

Dive into the significance of monastic traditions in Byzantine society, where spirituality and scholarship intertwined. Discover how monasteries preserved knowledge and nurtured artistic endeavors. Unpack the teachings of Gregory Palamas, who championed direct divine experience against rational thought. Explore the hesychast controversy, revealing the clash between mystical and philosophical perspectives on God's nature. This journey highlights key figures and the rich tapestry of ascetic devotion that shaped Byzantine culture.

Discover the impressive role of Byzantine scholars in science and mathematics during the Palaiologan Renaissance. Key figures like Blemmydes and Metochites revolutionized logic and natural philosophy while integrating astrology and astronomy into intellectual discussions. Challenge the myth of constant decline in learning as you explore the surprising revival of scholarship and its impact on the rise of humanism in Italy. The intersections of science and theology highlight how religious beliefs shaped future intellectual traditions in this vibrant era.

Judith Herrin, a historian and Professor Emerita, dives into the fascinating interplay between Byzantium and Islam. She discusses their dynamic relationship over eight centuries, marked by both conflict and cultural exchange. The evolution of coinage reflects their shifting mutual respect, while intellectual exchanges highlight the resilience of Greek philosophy amidst challenges. Herrin also elaborates on the intercultural dialogues between Muslims and Christians and the remarkable preservation of Christian culture after the fall of Constantinople.

Explore the fascinating intellectual exchanges between Byzantine Christians and Muslims that shaped the medieval Near East. Delve into military encounters and diplomatic efforts, highlighting mutual respect amid religious divides. Discover the vibrant theological debates led by impressively knowledgeable scholars. Learn how figures like Bar-Hebraeus and others sparked cultural advancements during the Syriac Renaissance, promoting rich philosophical interactions between Byzantium and the Islamic world.