Moderators: Stefano Rebeggiani & Brian Treanor
What is friendship and what does it add to human life? Can we define it, or can it only be lived? What virtues are required to begin and grow friendships? In this seminar we consider Aristotle’s famous definition, but then turn to the great Catholic novelist, J.R.R. Tolkien, to examine a great friendship in action.
Topics & Readings:
J.R.R. Tolkien, “The Shadow of the Past,” (The Fellowship of the Ring, Book 1, Ch. 2) and “Mount Doom” (The Return of the King, Book 6, Ch. 3)
Recommended:
Thomas Aquinas, Summa theologiae, II-II, qq. 23-26 (Charity, friendship, and the order of loves)
Seminar Schedule:
9:00-9:30 Mass in Church of Our Savior (optional)
9:30-10:00 Coffee & donuts on the patio
10:00-11:30 Session 1 in Newman Hall
11:30-12:30 Buffet Lunch outside on the patio
12:30-1:30 Session 2 in Newman Hall
This Seminar is supported by a grant from the Lumen Christi Institute with funding from the John Templeton (Grant #63614) from the John Templeton Foundation.