An Introduction to Plato’s Phaedo led by Dr Maeve McKeogh

4 sessions starting Wednesday 15th January 2025

This Zoom course aims to give an introduction to Plato’s Phaedo, one of his most important dialogues. It is a rich and moving account of Socrates’ final hours, and which takes place in his prison cell. In the dialogue Socrates discusses with friends the pressing question of life after death, the arguments for the immortality of the soul and the reasons to live the philosophical life. The dialogue also includes an extended discussion of the theory of forms.

The course is intended for those with little or no knowledge of the Platonic Dialogues. Through reading and discussion of key parts of the text it aims to provide participants with an overview of the dialogue, and so build a foundation for later study.

Facilitator: Dr Maeve McKeogh was a medical doctor specialising in hospice care, while at the same time studying philosophy and mysticism for many years. Following early retirement, she undertook a degree in philosophy and theology at Harris Manchester College Oxford.

The course takes place over 4 successive Wednesday evenings from 15th January to Wednesday 5th February 2025 (6.00-7.15 pm). A recording can be sent if you have to miss any sessions.