There is a choice of one of the 4 topics given
1. Explicate Aristotle’s definition of virtue. No matter the direction in which you decide to
take your essay, it should include some discussion of the following points: (a) how we have
arrived at virtue as a topic and why is a definition necessary; (b) the parts of an Aristotelian
definition, and their role in defining virtue; (c) how Aristotle illustrates and supports his
definition. Note: this is an explication (unfolding); this means that you do not need to have or defend a thesis
(position). Rather, the organizing principle is Aristotle’s definition itself, which you are to explain.
2. Virtuous action is a matter of habit, according to Aristotle. Write an essay exploring
Aristotle’s conception of habit, character, and—crucially—how, why, and to what extent he
thinks we are responsible for our characters. Note: this essay will be wider-ranging than (1), above,
and should cover relevant passages from at least Books II and III of the Nicomachean Ethics.
3. Aristotle writes about the virtue of courage in both Books II and III. Write an essay on
Aristotelian courage with some discussion of at least (but not limited to) the following
points: (a) how courage fits Aristotle’s definition of virtue; (b) how his analysis of courage
in Book III is similar to or different from his discussion of it in Book II; (c) how Aristotle’s
conception of courage seems similar to or different from a modern conception of courage.
Note: be especially careful, in addressing (c), not simply to assume that “our” conception of courage is more
correct or advanced than Aristotle’s, or that what you think is the modern conception isn’t in fact one of the
several forms of pseudo-courage.
4. Aristotle writes about the virtue of temperance in both Books II and III. Write an essay
on Aristotelian temperance with some discussion of at least (but not limited to) the
following points: (a) how temperance fits Aristotle’s definition of virtue; (b) how his
analysis of temperance in Book III is similar to or different from his discussion of it in Book
II; (c) how or why temperance (or something like it) remains central to “happiness”.
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