PH924-30 Nietzsche
Introductory description
This module provides an advanced introduction to Nietzsche, one of the most seminal thinkers in the tradition of continental philosophy.
Module aims
The principal aim of this module is to provide an advanced introduction to Nietzsche. We do so by undertaking an in-depth study of one of Nietzsche’s most important books The Birth of Tragedy (1872). In it, Nietzsche introduces many of the themes that will shape his thought going forward, including the life-affirming function of art, the value of illusion, and questions about the value of scientific inquiry. In addition to carefully reading The Birth of Tragedy itself, we will pay attention to the philosophical and cultural backdrop against which it was written, and we will look at works by, e.g., Arthur Schopenhauer, Richard Wagner, Friedrich Schiller, A.W. Schlegel, and J.J. Winckelmann, as they become relevant to our main topics.
Outline syllabus
This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.
Nietzsche, 1967, The Birth of Tragedy and The Case of Wagner, translated by Walter Kaufmann (New York: Vintage).
Further secondary readings TBA
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
- have a sound and scholarly understanding of Nietzsche’s The Birth of Tragedy and important themes from his philosophy as they appear there.
- discuss incisively and critically key concepts and ideas in seminar discussions.
- discuss incisively and critically key concepts and ideas in written work.
Indicative reading list
Nietzsche, 1967, The Birth of Tragedy and The Case of Wagner, translated by Walter Kaufmann (New York: Vintage).
Subject specific skills
Close textual reading skills. Hermeneutic skills. Advanced reasoning skills. Fluency in essay writing.
Transferable skills
Strong presentation skills, verbally and in writing. Skills in logical and analytical reasoning. Skills in creative thinking.
Study time
| Type | Required |
|---|---|
| Seminars | 9 sessions of 2 hours (6%) |
| Private study | 282 hours (94%) |
| Total | 300 hours |
Private study description
Private study and essay preparation
Costs
No further costs have been identified for this module.
You must pass all assessment components to pass the module.
Students can register for this module without taking any assessment.
Assessment group A4
| Weighting | Study time | |
|---|---|---|
| 5000 word essay | 100% |
Feedback on assessment
Feedback on essays will be provided on the coversheet for the essay, addressing standard areas
of evaluation and individual content.
Courses
This module is Core option list A for:
- Year 1 of TPHA-V7P2 Postgraduate Taught Continental Philosophy
This module is Option list A for:
- Year 1 of TPHA-V7PM Postgraduate Taught Philosophy
-
TPHA-V7PN Postgraduate Taught Philosophy and the Arts
- Year 1 of V7PN Philosophy and the Arts
- Year 2 of V7PN Philosophy and the Arts
This module is Option list E for:
- Year 1 of TPHA-V7PM Postgraduate Taught Philosophy