Philosophical Readings in Virgil's Aeneid

<p>In this thesis I argue that an understanding of the philosophical context in which Virgil was writing can complicate and enrich our reading of the Aeneid. I aim to show that Virgil is not only making reference to philosophy but also doing philosophy: he engages with tests and responds to philosophical ideas in a productive and challenging way. By way of introduction I will give an outline of Virgil's philosophical context and a justification for the general enterprise of philosophical readings in the Aeneid. I will then explain my methodology (what do I look for as a basis for individual philosophical readings and what do these comprise?) and the aims of my study. I finally offer suggestions as to what this sort of analysis can contribute to Virgilian scholarship and possible areas for further research</p>