The Peripatetics: Aristotle's Heirs 322 BCE - 200 CE

Ancient Philosophies

by Han Baltussen

The Peripatetics explores the development of Peripatetic thought from Theophrastus and Strato to the work of the commentator Alexander of Aphrodisias. The book examines whether the internal dynamics of this philosophical school allowed for a unity of Peripatetic thought, or whether there was a fundamental tension between philosophical creativity and the notions of core teachings and canonisation. The book discusses the major philosophical preoccupations of the Peripatetics, interactions with Hellenistic schools of thought, and the shift in focus among Greek philosophers in a changing political landscape. It is the first book of its kind to provide a survey of this important philosophical tradition.

Genres: Philosophy

189 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 8, 2016

Reviews

[Tony Gualtieri · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Hellenistic philosophers discussed here survive as little more than fragments and book titles. Baltussen weaves this scant material into as complete a picture as one could hope for. The Peripatetics kept the flame of Aristotle's thought alive, long enough for his elevation as the philosopher par excellence in the years of the Roman Empire. They engaged with his thought, critiqued his ideas, and kept up a lively debate with each other and with rival schools. I came away with an appreciation of Theophrastus and a regret that so much of his work has been lost beyond his witty collection of characters.

The book's chapters are basically independent essays, which leads to some repetition. Also, Alexander of Aphrodisias is barely mentioned, surprising given how much of his commentaries on Aristotle are extent. Nevertheless, this is a vital work for anyone interested in Greek philosophy.