Reading paths

In Reading paths, we accompany your encounter with philosophical texts through connected readings. We explain the relationships between works and provide context so you can begin without prior knowledge. You can follow the suggested order, read one work at a time and return to the commentary at your own pace. The path offers guidance while leaving room to develop your own relationship with the books.

The Death of Socrates, by David: Socrates reaches towards the cup while his disciples surround him. — Jacques-Louis David, The Death of Socrates, 1787 · The Met, 31.45 · CC0. Source and rights

Plato’s dialogues

Apology, Crito and Euthyphro: context and passages to accompany your reading.

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Marble bust of Aristotle, Palazzo Altemps, Rome. — Aristotle, Palazzo Altemps · Photograph: Jastrow (2006), public domain. Source and rights

Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics

How to live well

Nicomachean Ethics: ten books exploring happiness, character, choice and friendship, with explanations and reference passages.

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