Aristotle: Education for Virtue and Leisure

Our latest book in the Giants in the History of Education series The Greek philosopher Aristotle is a towering figure in the history of philosophy and the study of ethics. His contributions to educational thought have played a central role in the tradition of classical education across the centuries, especially for teachers who look to the liberal arts tradition for guidance. In this book, Dr. Gary Hartenburg provides an introduction to Aristotle’s educational philosophy and influence, including an overview of important topics addressed by Aristotle that continue to guide educational thought and practice today. Hartenburg begins with a summary of Aristotle’s life and works, as well as a background of Greek culture and educational practices. The author then outlines Aristotle’s views on the nature and purpose of human beings, focusing on Aristotle’s understanding of virtue, happiness, leisure, and friendship. Aristotle’s views on these topics have important educational implications, and Hartenburg proceeds to explain numerous aspects of Aristotelian curriculum and pedagogy that follow from those views. The book concludes with an overview of Aristotle’s educational influence throughout history as well as some key ways in which Aristotelian thought is still relevant to teachers and students today.