Back to the Foundations: The Republic of Plato
Why should any of us try to be just? The world around us gives many examples of injustice, from self-centred colleagues to unscrupulous politicians, which can make us wonder what holding onto a moral standard really achieves. Plato seeks to answer this in his seminal work The Republic—one of the most influential works of philosophy ever written—in which the Greek thinker Socrates, challenged by the scoundrel Thrasymachus, attempts to answer this very question.
Join us for a series of seminars as we read through The Republic, unpack what Plato is trying to tell us, and grapple with the realities of struggling to life a just life. Through the Socratic method we will aim not only to get to know the text itself deeply, but also to apply the insights we have gained in the context our own lives. If you want to think more deeply about the meaning of your life through the lens of one of the most influential ancient thinkers, this is the course for you.
A 6-part course working through the complete text of Plato’s Republic.
Application deadline: 14th September 2026
Professor: Alexander Norris, Director of Studies
Duration: 18th September 2026 — 27th November 2026
When: Fridays fortnightly, 6.00pm-7.30pm
Location: Central London (Zone 1, venue tbc.)
No. of participants: Max. 16
Cost: £298
Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or contact us anytime. Once you’re ready, go ahead and begin your application.
Your Questions, Answered-
This course is designed to be accessible for beginners. It does not require any past study of the works of Plato.
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We adopt a Socratic or question-led approach which prioritises the interpretation of the text.
The professor takes the assigned text (see the course curriculum) as already read and uses the hour to lead a critical discussion of it by asking a series of thought-provoking questions. Participants are invited to offer an interpretation of the text and to defend it.
A Socratic approach aims to expose weaknesses in understanding and to facilitate deeper insights as a group.
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Readings are assigned for each class. These are typically 30 pages in length. It is expected that you have read through the assigned text before the class. This means the class can focus on the skills necessary to refine one’s interpretation of the text.
To see the readings for this course, download the syllabus above.
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If you are unable to commit to the full course, consider purchasing one of our subscription options, which enable you to attend a certain number of classes a month of your choice, regardless of the course.
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We understand that work and family commitments come first. If you are unable to attend a seminar, let us know in advance via email (see ‘contact us’ below)
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Click ‘start application’ above to begin filling out our registration form.
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We may consider late applications. Send us an email. Many of our courses have multiple possible start dates which you might also consider.
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You can reach us anytime via our contact page or email. We aim to respond quickly—usually within one business day.