Honors Midterm Practice

The professor has graded the papers and yours has scored a D. You’re very unhappy. You’re explaining to a friend how terrible your life is going. Epictetus is eavesdropping. He approaches to offer general advice. What does he say? Be sure to connect your answer with what Stoic’s larger view of what constitutes a happy life.

• Firstly, it is doubtful that Epictetus would approach in the first place as I am clearly a non-philosopher in this situation, and he specifically advises to not discuss philosophy with a non-philosopher.

• But, lets say he decides to approach nevertheless.

• Epictetus, along with Stoicism in general, argue that one should not concern themselves with things outside of their control, including the grade.

Explain Aristotle’s theory of virtue and its connection with human happiness. Any why does Aristotle think Prudence so important among the virtues of character?

Rafael’s painting The School of Athens depicts Plato in conversation with Aristotle: Plato gesturing to the heavens above while Aristotle towards the earth below. Explain Plato’s metaphysics, and how his vision differed from Aristotle’s.

In our reading of The Republic Socrates is found grappling with a problem about justice. What is that problem, and what is Socrates’ solution to it?

What is the Good? Explain Plato’s view with reference to his allegory of the cave.

The Symposium has much to say about Love. Describe at least two important themes. How do these compare or contrast with how love is thought of today?