Thucydides

Timeless lessons on leadership (2/4)

Course

Deadline Application:

Professor

In this module, you will read one of the greatest ancient historians, Thucydides. You will confront enduring questions, such as: what is the connection between democracy and empire? What is the nature of conflict and how does it affect both individuals and societies? Is the desire to dominate something perennial? Is there justice in the relations between states, or only brute force? You will pay special attention to the role of leadership, by reflecting on the virtues and vices of the great men of classical antiquity.

In this first module, you will read select passages from the Old and New Testaments. Throughclose reading, you will discover the literary depth of the stories in Genesis and Exodus. You will also discuss the meaning and significance of Christ, the most compelling figure in Christian theology. With new eyes, you will take a look at some psychological treasures within the Greatest Book of all time.

Feb 26th : Thucydides, Peloponnesian War, I, 1-88, 118-125, 139-146; II, 1-24, 34-46.

Mar 5th : Thucydides, Peloponnesian War, II, 47-78; III, 1-85; IV, 1-41.

Mar 12th : Thucydides, Peloponnesian War, IV, 78-116; V, 1-26, 40-74, 84-116; V, 1-26, 40-74, 84-116; VI, 1, 8-32.

Mar 19th: Thucydides, Peloponnesian War, VI, 33-61, 89-105; VII.

Read our frequently asked questions here.

Not sure if this course is the right fit for you? Schedule a call with  our dean Gerard Versluis to discuss your options.

Phone: +31 (0)71 303 19 90
Email:professionals@pascalinstitute.com

Through interactive seminars and Socratic conversations, you will be challenged by transformative thinkers.

- Pascal Institute (since 2022)

FAQ

Who is this course for?

This course is designed for advanced students across all disciplines. Recent graduates and professionals are also welcome to apply.

Mr. Gerard Versluis

From the 26th of February until the 19th of March 2025.

Upon successful completion of this course, you will receive a certificate.

All class sessions will be conducted as “seminars”, featuring Socratic conversations and close reading. Students are expected to actively participate in discussions throughout each class session.

The Studium serves as a dedicated study space for students enrolled in at least one course at the Pascal Institute. It offers a queit environment designed to foster focus and inspiration. You are welcome to use it every weekday from 9:00 to 13:00. For more information, please contact aanmeldingen@pascalinstitute.com.

This course fee is €650 per semester, which includes 4 weeks of class, 2 hours per week.

The application deadline is February 5, 2025. To begin your application click on ‘Start Application’ at the top of this page.

Pascal Brochure
Download Our Brochure
You will receive our brochure in your email.

By downloading our brochure, you will also be subscribing to our newsletter. You may opt-out at any time.

"*" indicates required fields

First Name*
Keys to the Greats Courses for Students
Join Our Friday Night Lecture
Paul van Geest | February 21, 2025

‘Restless is Our Heart’

In our upcoming lecture we will explore how the longing of the human heart for happiness informs the great political questions of war and peace. Is the desire for world peace simply a utopian fantasy, or does it reveal something profound about the human condition? Through the work of Augustine we will unravel what his ideas can teach us today.