Metabolai. Forms of Text and the Transmission of Knowledge between Antiquity and the Middle Ages – ancient philosophy

Department

Department of Philosophy, University of Bologna

Main research activities/topics/projects

The research center was established with the aim of fostering and advancing the study of the various philosophical and scientific traditions that shaped the Mediterranean world from Antiquity to the Middle Ages. The Greek term metabolai (transformations) is used to describe the historical and/or geographical characteristics that best define these fruitful centuries in the history of thought. Classical Antiquity, the Judeo-Christian tradition, and the Persian, Arab, and Latin worlds interacted closely in the realms of philosophy and science, creating a virtuous exchange that has left an indelible mark on the world we live in. Philosophers, scientists, and translators traveled between Athens, Rome, and Alexandria, as well as Byzantium, Baghdad, and Cordoba, forging textual, cultural, and intellectual pathways that were constantly evolving.

The primary goal of our work is to promote and disseminate research that examines these transformations, identifying their sources and lines of development. Various activities are undertaken to concretely achieve this objective:

The center is committed to establishing an annual calendar of public events (seminars, conferences, lectures, etc.) featuring national and international experts. Special emphasis is given to providing ample opportunities for research conducted by young scholars.

Working language

Italian and English

Duration in months (min-max)

Master Research: 2-12

PhD sandwich: 2-12

Post Doc: 2-12