The discovery of Humanism through the lens of Montaigne
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- Start Date: 29 Sep 2025End Date: 01 Dec 2025Mon (Daytime): 14:30 - 16:30In PersonLocation: Keeley StreetDuration: 10 sessions (over -10 weeks)Course Code: HP258Tutors: Cristina PaternoFull fee £259.00 Senior fee £207.00 Concession £168.00
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What is the course about?
This course explores how Montaigne pioneered a new introspective approach—self-reflection—centred on understanding the self and the meaning of identity. His groundbreaking contributions inspired philosophers to explore the essence of being human. The course also references other key philosophers of the period and modern theories, such as emotional intelligence.
What will we cover?
This course explores Humanism as a philosophy that emphasises human experience and potential. We’ll examine how ideas of self-reflection and introspection, developed by thinkers like Montaigne, Petrarch, and Descartes, shifted philosophical focus from the external world to the inner self. This shift later influenced philosophers and psychologists to explore identity, consciousness, and personal meaning beyond merely studying the world as an external object.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
• Gain a deeper understanding of Humanism.
• Develop a clear understanding of specialised terminology and philosophical language relevant to the course.
• Enhance your debating and critical thinking skills.
• Explore deeper concepts such as introspection and self-reflection.
• Compare and contrast philosophers such as Montaigne, Petrarch and Descartes.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
The course is designed for both beginners and individuals with some philosophical knowledge. A background in philosophical studies is not required; however, a certain level of interest in thinking activities is necessary. An open mind and a willingness to listen and respond to ideas with which you may not always agree are more important than specific levels of skill.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
The session will encourage active participation through discussions and group activities, enhancing your critical thinking abilities. Multimedia resources, including video clips and visual stimuli, will be incorporated to support each learner's comprehension and knowledge. Occasionally you will be reading some extracts from philosophers.The session will encourage active participation through discussions and group activities, enhancing your critical thinking abilities. Multimedia resources, including video clips and visual stimuli, will be incorporated to support each learner's comprehension and knowledge.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
Exercise book and pen. Any reading material will be provided.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
You may be interested in 'Stoicism versus Epicureanism: incompatible opposites or complementary philosophies of life?', also taught by Cristina and starting in January 2026.
Cristina holds two Honours Degrees in Philosophy and Science of Education with History. She worked as a researcher and lecturer at the University of Cagliari in Italy, focussing on classical and modern European and Asian philosophy with a particular emphasis on metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, and political philosophy. She moved to the UK in 1994 and taught at universities, adult education institutions, and secondary schools, as well as successfully assumed leadership roles, including that of a head of department. In addition to teaching at City Lit, Cristina is the coordinator of Italian at Imperial College. Her teaching style is engaging and transformative, characterised by interactive strategies tailored to accommodate diverse learning styles. Cristina’s commitment to incorporate human rights into the fabric of her teachings symbolises her conviction in the practical implications of philosophical theories and her belief in the real-world implications of philosophical ideas. For Cristina philosophy isn't just an academic pursuit, it is a means to foster critical thinking, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the human experience.
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.
