Epicureanism

Definition

Epicureanism is a philosophical system founded by the ancient Greek philosopher Epicurus, advocating for the pursuit of happiness through the cultivation of pleasure and the avoidance of pain. It emphasizes the importance of intellectual and simple pleasures over indulgence, promoting a life of moderation and self-reflection. In the context of Neoclassicism and the Augustan Age, this philosophy influenced literature, art, and social thought as individuals sought to balance reason with the enjoyment of life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Epicureanism promotes a form of pleasure that is rooted in intellectual satisfaction rather than purely physical gratification, aligning well with the values of reason and moderation during the Neoclassical period.
2. Epicurus taught that friendships are among the greatest sources of happiness, which resonated with Augustan thinkers who emphasized social connections and civic virtue.
3. The philosophy also asserts that one should seek knowledge about the world to alleviate fears about death and the afterlife, encouraging a rational approach to existence.
4. During the Augustan Age, writers like Alexander Pope incorporated Epicurean ideas into their works, exploring themes related to pleasure, nature, and human experience.
5. Epicureanism was sometimes misinterpreted as promoting hedonism, leading to debates about morality and ethics in literature and philosophy during this time.

Review Questions

• How did Epicureanism influence literary themes during the Neoclassical and Augustan periods?
  • Epicureanism significantly influenced literary themes in these periods by emphasizing the pursuit of moderate pleasures and intellectual enjoyment. Writers like Alexander Pope incorporated Epicurean ideals into their poetry, exploring topics such as friendship, nature, and the importance of reasoned enjoyment over excess. This philosophical lens helped shape a cultural narrative that valued both pleasure and rationality, providing a counterpoint to more extreme views on indulgence prevalent in society.
• Discuss how Epicureanism's views on fear and knowledge impacted philosophical discourse in the Augustan Age.
  • Epicureanism's assertion that knowledge can alleviate fears about death and existence sparked significant philosophical discourse during the Augustan Age. Thinkers were encouraged to explore reason as a tool for understanding life's mysteries rather than succumbing to superstitions. This shift contributed to a broader intellectual movement that valued enlightenment principles, laying groundwork for modern philosophies that prioritize empirical knowledge and rational thought over fear-based belief systems.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of Epicureanism on modern thought, considering its origins in the context of Neoclassicism and the Augustan Age.
  • Epicureanism's emphasis on pleasure derived from knowledge, moderation, and friendship has had a lasting impact on modern thought by influencing ethical frameworks such as utilitarianism. The balance between enjoyment and rational living established during the Neoclassical period continues to resonate today, fostering a culture that values personal happiness while advocating for societal well-being. This philosophical tradition encourages ongoing discussions about the nature of happiness and ethical living, bridging ancient insights with contemporary issues in philosophy and ethics.

Related terms

Hedonism: A philosophical doctrine that posits pleasure as the highest good and ultimate aim of human life, often associated with indulgence in sensual experiences.

Stoicism:

A school of philosophy that teaches the development of self-control and fortitude as a means to overcome destructive emotions and maintain a rational perspective on life.

Utilitarianism: An ethical theory that suggests the best action is the one that maximizes utility, typically defined as maximizing happiness and reducing suffering.