HUM 350: Great Figures: Nietzsche

Course Description:

There can be no doubt that the work of Friedrich Nietzsche has had a profound yet contradictory impact on modern thought. Nietzsche was notoriously used and abused by the Nazis in their attempt to create a so-called master race, yet his thinking has also served as an important inspiration for thinkers engaged in the critical unmasking of power. This course undertakes to provide a general introduction to Nietzsche's thought by examining the tradition that Nietzsche was attacking as well as conflicting interpretations of his legacy.

Seminars:

While there will be occasional lectures to provide context, the course will follow a seminar format. Students will be required to do short presentations as a way of provoking discussion of the readings. They will also be called upon to give a short “protocol” at the start of each class to summarize the main points of the previous class.

Required Texts: