History of Philosophy Without Any Gaps

Peter Abelard and Heloise prove themselves to be fascinating thinkers as well as star-crossed lovers. The podcast discusses their secret marriage, conflicts with theologians, influence of Abelard's teacher, negating propositions, their transition into monastic life, Hadoise's bold and unapologetic letters, and Peter Abilard's change in method and his triumphant anecdote.

Abelard and other logicians of the 12th century argue over the status of universals: are they words or things?

Anselm's combination of devotional material and discursive philosophy, understanding his arguments and the role of prayers, his concept of faith-seeking understanding, and his spiritual project of seeking God through writing

Exploring Anselm's famous ontological argument for God's existence and the objections raised. Anselm's reasoning on the cause of goodness and the limitations of human comprehension. The counterargument of the perfect island and Kant's perspective on existence as a property.

Exploring the life and influence of Anselm of Canterbury, his background and appointment as Archbishop, his contributions to medieval thought, his rationalist project, and his concept of truth in human will.

Peter Damian, a philosopher exploring the philosophical implications of restoring lost virginity, discusses the medieval notions of God's power and possibility, his radical decisions and controversial writings, and the philosophical implications of the past, present, and future. He also explores God's ability to change the past and the distinction between necessities.

Explore the influence of Irish scholars in medieval Europe, the practice of commentary on earlier texts, disruptions caused by Viking raids, and the flourishing of philosophy in the Islamic world. Discover the contributions of philosophers and the controversies over education, theology, and the nature of the Eucharist.

Stephen Gersh, a doctoral advisor in medieval Platonism, joins to discuss Platonism's sources and influence in the Middle Ages. They explore the limited knowledge of Plato at that time, the role of Byzantine philosophy in reviving Plato's works, the transmission and transformation of Platonism in the Latin West by key figures such as Augustine and Boethius, the association between Platonism and the liberal arts, and how medieval writers dealt with non-Christian aspects of texts, including the challenge of interpreting the works of Proclus.

Medieval Philosophy scholars Jill Kraye and John Marenbon discuss the definition of medieval philosophy, historical periods and traditions within it, the impact of the Renaissance, the division between arts and theology faculties in medieval universities, and the importance of theological context in studying medieval philosophy.

Explore the remarkable thinker Eriugena and his masterpiece Periphyseon. Delve into the three opposite types and God's creation process. Examine the limitations of language in describing God and the problem of non-being. Discover Eriugena's radical metaphysics and the importance of anonymous medieval scholars.