This reading group investigates Augustine’s answer to the central question of ancient ethical humanism: what is the happy life? He received the question from pre-Christian philosophy, transformed it under the influence of his own Christianity and reading of the Bible, and passed it on to philosophers that followed him. To what degree does the fact that Augustine was so interested in human happiness call into question his reputation as a dour theorist of human sin and political pessimism? Is it possible to understand Augustine as a humanist? 

Led by Justin Hawkins, this reading group is open to Yale students. Space is limited; to sign up or for more information please contact Peter Wicks.