POL485H1S L0201

Graduate Course Code: POL2027H1S L0201

Topics in Political Thought II

Comparative Topics in Jewish and Non-Jewish Political Theory II

Themes

We will continue to develop the theme of despotism and resistance to or accommodation of it initiated in POL 485H1f/2027H1F. We will read the final four books of Herodotus’ histories, his famous account of the Persian Wars and the Hellenes’ successful defence of their freedom, and then proceed to the Biblical Book of Esther, with its account of murderous intrigues at the court of that very same Persian Empire.

Texts

Herodotus , Histories, tr. David Grene (Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1987); The Book of Esther (to be provided by Professor Orwin).

Format and Requirements

We will meet weekly for 3 ½ hours. A shorter essay, a longer essay, and a take-home exam.

Prerequisites

POL200Y1/ or POL200Y5 or (POLC70H3 & POLC71H3)