Texts of Existence: The Interplay of Religion, Individualism, and the Cosmos in Borges and Nietzsche.
This event is sponsored by the Lumen Christi Institute’s Nicklin Fellows Program, which supports and encourages University of Chicago undergraduate students to develop their intellectual maturity. Arjun Mazumdar, who designed this program, is a 2023-2024 Nicklin Fellow. This program is for undergraduate students only.
In "Texts of Existence," we will explore the depths of existentialism, religion, and the meaning of life through the lens of literary and philosophical classics. Our reading group will study the works of Jorge Luis Borges and Friedrich Nietzsche. Expect to read and analyze passages together, form a collaborative understanding of texts, and tackle crucial questions regarding purpose, "the good life," and the implications of religion (or its absence) in our lives. Books and dinner will be provided. We will read the short stories together before we begin our discussion.
Themes: existentialism and individualism, the search for authenticity amidst the absurd, and the role of religion and spirituality.
SCHEDULE:
Pilot Session: Borges, "The Approach to Al-Mu'tasim," Discussion
February 22nd, Thursday, 6-7:30 PM, Gavin House
Session 1: Introduction to Nietzsche's The Gay Science
April 3rd, Wednesday, 6 - 7:30 PM, Gavin House
Session 2: The Gay Science Discussion
April 24th, Wednesday, 6-7:30 PM, Gavin House
Session 3: Borges, "The Library of Babel," Discussion
May 1st, Wednesday, 6 - 7:30 PM, Gavin House
