A readable and engaging overview of all three periods in ancient philosophy

This is Ancient Philosophy is an accessible yet comprehensive introduction to the major philosophers and foundational concepts of classical antiquity. A readable and engaging overview of all three periods in ancient philosophy, from the early (Presocratic) Greeks, to the Golden Age of philosophy, and the Hellenistic period, This is Ancient Philosophy discusses key questions and issues that are relevant to the present day.

Assuming no prior knowledge in the subject, This Is Ancient Philosophy uses an intuitive, easy-to-understand narrative style as it examines the ideas, influences, and interconnections of philosophers such as Socrates, the Sophists, Plato, and Aristotle, as well as philosophical schools of thought including Cynicism, Epicureanism, Stoicism, and Skepticism.

Divided into three parts, the book opens with an overview of early Greek philosophy, describing the turn from mythological thinking to philosophical analysis. The second part focuses on the distinctions between the subjects of philosophy in both the Golden Age and today, followed by a survey of the Hellenistic period and a discussion of the relation between fate and freedom of action.

• Presents a unique combined approach to ancient philosophy, offering both chapters on authors and chapters on themes
• Helps readers gain an understanding of the origins, development, and influence of ancient philosophy
• Features a wealth of instructive and engaging charts, grids, and figures throughout
• Includes a detailed map illustrating the chronological development of philosophy, from Asia Minor to southern Italy and Athens

Part of the popular This Is Philosophy series, This Is Ancient Philosophy is an excellent text for students of philosophy, both introductory and advanced, and general readers with interest in the philosophy of the classical era.