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
In this module, we undertake an in-depth study of one of Nietzsche’s most important and difficult books Beyond Good and Evil (1886). In it, Nietzsche treats a wide variety of themes, including the nature of philosophical enquiry, the search for truth, the motivations of metaphysics, the constitution of the human psyche, the sociology and psychology of Judeo- Christian morality, the structure of society, the ideal of nobility of soul, and many other themes. We will proceed methodically through the main sections of the text, paying particular attention to the relevance of the structure and style of Nietzsche’s presentation for understanding the philosophical content.
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, Beyond Good and Evil, trans. Walter Kaufmann
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
- have a sound and scholarly understanding of Nietzsche’s Beyond Good and Evil 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 A5
| 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