Journey Through Time: Exploring Ancient Authors in AEI's Literature Classes

At American Education International (AEI), the study of literature is not just an academic exercise; it's a captivating journey through the annals of human thought and expression. Our literature classes provide students with a unique opportunity to delve into the works of ancient authors whose timeless words continue to resonate across centuries. Through a carefully curated selection of literary masterpieces, students are not only made aware of the profound impact of these ancient thinkers but are also trained in the art of verbal reasoning and textual analysis.

Understanding the Ancients: A Literary Odyssey

The literary odyssey begins with "The Epic of Gilgamesh," an ancient Mesopotamian epic from the 18th century BC. As students traverse through time, they encounter the foundational works of Homer, Hesiod, and ?sop, each contributing to the rich tapestry of ancient literature in their distinctive ways.

Philosophical Pioneers: Plato and Aristotle

A cornerstone of our curriculum is the exploration of philosophical giants such as Plato and Aristotle. Students grapple with the profound ideas encapsulated in Plato's "The Republic" and Aristotle's "Poetics," gaining insight into the foundations of Western philosophy. These texts serve as intellectual crucibles, honing students' verbal reasoning skills and fostering a nuanced understanding of complex ideas.

Dramatic Excellence: ?schylus, Sophocles, and Euripides

The dramatic arts take center stage with the tragedies of ?schylus, Sophocles, and Euripides. Students analyze the timeless themes of fate, morality, and human nature in works like "Oedipus Rex" and "Medea," sharpening their literary analysis skills while immersing themselves in the emotional depths of ancient storytelling.

Historical Narratives: Herodotus and Thucydides

As students progress, they encounter historical narratives by Herodotus and Thucydides, gaining insights into the events of ancient Greece. These works not only broaden their historical perspectives but also foster critical thinking as they navigate through the intricacies of historical accounts.

Scientific Inquiry: Euclid and Archimedes

Incorporating scientific inquiry into the literary journey, students explore the mathematical principles of Euclid and the innovative contributions of Archimedes. This interdisciplinary approach cultivates a holistic understanding of the intellectual landscape of the ancient world.

Philosophical Reflections: Stoicism and Ethics

The philosophical reflections of Epictetus and Seneca the Younger introduce students to Stoic principles and ethical considerations, encouraging thoughtful contemplation on the nature of virtue and personal responsibility.

Early Christian Thought: St. Augustine and St. Jerome

The curriculum extends into early Christian thought with the works of St. Augustine of Hippo and St. Jerome. Students grapple with theological concepts, delving into the writings that shaped the early Christian worldview.

Diverse Perspectives: Josephus, Cicero, and Tacitus

AEI's literature classes ensure exposure to a diverse range of perspectives, including the historical accounts of Josephus, the oratorical brilliance of Cicero, and the historical insights of Tacitus.

Culmination of Knowledge: A Journey Well-Traveled

As students traverse the literary landscapes of ancient authors at AEI, they not only gain a comprehensive understanding of the past but also develop invaluable skills in verbal reasoning, critical analysis, and cross-disciplinary thinking. The curriculum at AEI serves as a bridge across time, connecting students with the profound ideas and literary legacies that continue to shape the course of human history. In the pursuit of knowledge, our students embark on a journey well-traveled—one that transcends temporal boundaries and offers a profound appreciation for the enduring power of the written word.