Great Minds Interact. Artists, Dramatists and Philosophers in Ancient Greece - part 2
This course continues our exploration of Greek art considering the extent to which it relates to key ideas and issues of the time. These are exemplified by contemporary philosophy, myth, poetry, and drama. Includes a visit to the British Museum.
Learning modes and locations may be different depending on the course start date. Please check the location of your chosen course and read our guide to learning modes and locations to help you choose the right course for you.
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Centre for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
This course content is different and is not contingent on having attended part 1 last year. In other words, this course is a ‘stand-alone’. We regard the distinctive forms and styles of Greek art as something which has to be explained. It was not a mystical ‘Greek Miracle’, or inevitable or predetermined. It was created by human beings (artists) making decisions and choices in a particular historical, mental and ideological context which shaped their creativity.
What will we cover?
We begin by examining the factors at play in the actual making of art. These include the interplay between ideas, cleverness, materials, technologies, skills, inspiration, influences and choices. It is fascinating to see how philosophers have taken up ideas from myth and how they are exemplified in the art itself. If art, in some sense, is a reflection of how that culture understands their world then how did the Greeks see their world? Philosophers, poets and dramatists had very different views on this, some claiming it to be; unified or diverse, fixed or changing, ordered or chaotic. What were the consequences for Greek art? Philosophers asked ‘can we believe what we see’ ‘can we trust what our eyes tell us - or does all viewing deceive?’ Some philosophers argued that we come to understand the world using our eyes and senses, Others claimed we can only gain understanding through the intellect and reason. Is knowledge and truth possible or is everything just a matter of opinion? Were Greek artists influenced by these questions? Did they take sides in these debates? We examine Greek art in the context of a question by Socrates who asked; ‘How should man live?’ Is art a part of the good life? Is it beneficial or harmful? How does it relate to education and politics? Should it be banished from the ‘Ideal State’? Did politics and ideology determine the production of art? Greek philosophers, dramatists, and artists all provide answers to these questions. We visit to the British museum to view Greek sculpture, vase-painting and jewellery from the ideas and perspectives we have been considering.
What will I achieve? By the end of this course you should be able to...
Explain key political, social and cultural events in Ancient Greece in their historical context
Recognise the style, period and context for archaeological objects, images and texts
Use appropriate evidence and strategies for analysing this ancient material
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This is an introductory course, no prior knowledge of Greek philosophy, drama, or Greek art is required. You will need a good grasp of English to participate and keep up with the course. You will gain more from the course, in terms of enjoyment and learning, if you are able and willing to do some supplementary reading. Curiosity, an open mind and a willingness to listen to and think about opposing views are more important than specific levels of skills. Your own thoughts and insights are central.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
This course is richly illustrated, offering an aesthetic as well as an intellectual experience. These explorations and the visit to the British Museum will enhance our understanding (and enjoyment) of the lovely art of ancient Greece. Insights gained are applicable to art appreciation generally.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
Michael teaches Classical and Ancient history at the City Lit. For many years he lectured in the Certificate/Diploma in History of Art course at London University, Birkbeck. He delivered a course in the ‘Classical Tradition’ at St Mary’s University and on ‘the Classical Artist’ at the Courtauld Institute. He also teaches a Summer School on Ancient Art in Christ Church, Oxford University. Michael acts as a tour guide to archaeological sites and museum collections.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.
product
https://www.citylit.ac.uk/great-minds-interact-artists-dramatists-and-philosophers-in-ancient-greece-part-23030910Great Minds Interact. Artists, Dramatists and Philosophers in Ancient Greece - part 2https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/category/ancient-civiliations-city-lit.jpg259259GBPInStock/Courses/Courses/Culture, history & humanities/Courses/Culture, history & humanities/Ancient civilisations/Courses/Culture, history & humanities/Ancient civilisations/Ancient civilisations22851177119111921228511771191<p>This course continues our exploration of Greek art considering the extent to which it relates to key ideas and issues of the time. These are exemplified by contemporary philosophy, myth, poetry, and drama. Includes a visit to the British Museum.</p>003030781Great Minds Interact. Artists, Dramatists and Philosophers in Ancient Greece - part 2259259https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/category/ancient-civiliations-city-lit.jpgInStockDaytimeWedKeeley StreetAvailable courses5-10 weeksWeekday2026-09-30T00:00:00+00:00Beginners, Some experience, Advanced, Suitable for allSep 2026Culture, history & humanitiesRC001259259Great Minds Interact. Artists, Dramatists and Philosophers in Ancient Greece - part 2207168259Michael Duigangreat-minds-interact-artists-dramatists-and-philosophers-in-ancient-greece-part-2/rc001-2627<p>This course continues our exploration of Greek art considering the extent to which it relates to key ideas and issues of the time. These are exemplified by contemporary philosophy, myth, poetry, and drama. Includes a visit to the British Museum.</p>0000-Available|2026-09-30 00:00:00<p>This course content is different and is not contingent on having attended part 1 last year. In other words, this course is a ‘stand-alone’. <br>We regard the distinctive forms and styles of Greek art as something which has to be explained. It was not a mystical ‘Greek Miracle’, or inevitable or predetermined. It was created by human beings (artists) making decisions and choices in a particular historical, mental and ideological context which shaped their creativity.</p><p>This course continues our exploration of Greek art considering the extent to which it relates to key ideas and issues of the time. These are exemplified by contemporary philosophy, myth, poetry, and drama. Includes a visit to the British Museum.</p><p>We begin by examining the factors at play in the actual making of art. These include the interplay between ideas, cleverness, materials, technologies, skills, inspiration, influences and choices. It is fascinating to see how philosophers have taken up ideas from myth and how they are exemplified in the art itself.<br>If art, in some sense, is a reflection of how that culture understands their world then how did the Greeks see their world? Philosophers, poets and dramatists had very different views on this, some claiming it to be; unified or diverse, fixed or changing, ordered or chaotic. What were the consequences for Greek art?<br>Philosophers asked ‘can we believe what we see’ ‘can we trust what our eyes tell us - or does all viewing deceive?’ Some philosophers argued that we come to understand the world using our eyes and senses, Others claimed we can only gain understanding through the intellect and reason. Is knowledge and truth possible or is everything just a matter of opinion? Were Greek artists influenced by these questions? Did they take sides in these debates? <br>We examine Greek art in the context of a question by Socrates who asked; ‘How should man live?’ Is art a part of the good life? Is it beneficial or harmful? How does it relate to education and politics? Should it be banished from the ‘Ideal State’? Did politics and ideology determine the production of art? Greek philosophers, dramatists, and artists all provide answers to these questions.<br>We visit to the British museum to view Greek sculpture, vase-painting and jewellery from the ideas and perspectives we have been considering.</p><ul><li>Explain key political, social and cultural events in Ancient Greece in their historical context</li><li>Recognise the style, period and context for archaeological objects, images and texts</li><li>Use appropriate evidence and strategies for analysing this ancient material</li></ul><p>This is an introductory course, no prior knowledge of Greek philosophy, drama, or Greek art is required. You will need a good grasp of English to participate and keep up with the course. You will gain more from the course, in terms of enjoyment and learning, if you are able and willing to do some supplementary reading. Curiosity, an open mind and a willingness to listen to and think about opposing views are more important than specific levels of skills. Your own thoughts and insights are central.</p><p>This course is richly illustrated, offering an aesthetic as well as an intellectual experience. These explorations and the visit to the British Museum will enhance our understanding (and enjoyment) of the lovely art of ancient Greece. Insights gained are applicable to art appreciation generally. </p><p>Limited book purchases recommended but optional.</p><p>Another Ancient Civilisations class next term.</p>Ancient civilisationsAncient civilisationsvirtual207259168RC001NONEWed30/09/26 - 02/12/2611:30 - 13:3011:3013:3010 sessions (over 10 weeks)105-10 weeksDaytimeWeekdayKSKeeley StreetMichael DuiganBeginners, Some experience, Advanced, Suitable for allAvailable courses2026-09-30T00:00:00+00:00Sep 2026Culture, history & humanities259259Great Minds Interact. Artists, Dramatists and Philosophers in Ancient Greece - part 2great-minds-interact-artists-dramatists-and-philosophers-in-ancient-greece-part-2/rc001-2627<p>This course continues our exploration of Greek art considering the extent to which it relates to key ideas and issues of the time. These are exemplified by contemporary philosophy, myth, poetry, and drama. Includes a visit to the British Museum.</p>0000-Available|2026-09-30 00:00:00<p>This course content is different and is not contingent on having attended part 1 last year. In other words, this course is a ‘stand-alone’. <br>We regard the distinctive forms and styles of Greek art as something which has to be explained. It was not a mystical ‘Greek Miracle’, or inevitable or predetermined. It was created by human beings (artists) making decisions and choices in a particular historical, mental and ideological context which shaped their creativity.</p><p>This course continues our exploration of Greek art considering the extent to which it relates to key ideas and issues of the time. These are exemplified by contemporary philosophy, myth, poetry, and drama. Includes a visit to the British Museum.</p><p>We begin by examining the factors at play in the actual making of art. These include the interplay between ideas, cleverness, materials, technologies, skills, inspiration, influences and choices. It is fascinating to see how philosophers have taken up ideas from myth and how they are exemplified in the art itself.<br>If art, in some sense, is a reflection of how that culture understands their world then how did the Greeks see their world? Philosophers, poets and dramatists had very different views on this, some claiming it to be; unified or diverse, fixed or changing, ordered or chaotic. What were the consequences for Greek art?<br>Philosophers asked ‘can we believe what we see’ ‘can we trust what our eyes tell us - or does all viewing deceive?’ Some philosophers argued that we come to understand the world using our eyes and senses, Others claimed we can only gain understanding through the intellect and reason. Is knowledge and truth possible or is everything just a matter of opinion? Were Greek artists influenced by these questions? Did they take sides in these debates? <br>We examine Greek art in the context of a question by Socrates who asked; ‘How should man live?’ Is art a part of the good life? Is it beneficial or harmful? How does it relate to education and politics? Should it be banished from the ‘Ideal State’? Did politics and ideology determine the production of art? Greek philosophers, dramatists, and artists all provide answers to these questions.<br>We visit to the British museum to view Greek sculpture, vase-painting and jewellery from the ideas and perspectives we have been considering.</p><ul><li>Explain key political, social and cultural events in Ancient Greece in their historical context</li><li>Recognise the style, period and context for archaeological objects, images and texts</li><li>Use appropriate evidence and strategies for analysing this ancient material</li></ul><p>This is an introductory course, no prior knowledge of Greek philosophy, drama, or Greek art is required. You will need a good grasp of English to participate and keep up with the course. You will gain more from the course, in terms of enjoyment and learning, if you are able and willing to do some supplementary reading. Curiosity, an open mind and a willingness to listen to and think about opposing views are more important than specific levels of skills. Your own thoughts and insights are central.</p><p>This course is richly illustrated, offering an aesthetic as well as an intellectual experience. These explorations and the visit to the British Museum will enhance our understanding (and enjoyment) of the lovely art of ancient Greece. Insights gained are applicable to art appreciation generally. </p><p>Limited book purchases recommended but optional.</p><p>Another Ancient Civilisations class next term.</p>Ancient civilisationsAncient civilisationsconfigurable
11921191Ancient civilisationshttps://www.citylit.ac.uk/courses/humanities/ancient-civilisations/ancient-civilisations-11/2/285/1177/1191/11921/Courses/Culture, history & humanities/Ancient civilisations/Ancient civilisations
