Paideia: The Formation of the Greek Man

Werner Jaeger's Paideia: The Formation of the Greek Man is a seminal work in the field of classical studies. First published in German in 1934, it has since been translated into English and has become a standard text for students of Greek history, literature, and philosophy.

In Paideia, Jaeger argues that the central feature of Greek culture was its focus on education, or paideia. Paideia was not simply a matter of acquiring knowledge, but rather a process of shaping the whole person, both intellectually and morally. The goal of paideia was to produce citizens who were not only well-educated, but also virtuous and responsible.

Jaeger traces the development of paideia from its origins in Homeric Greece to its culmination in the classical period. He shows how the Greek educational system evolved over time, and how it was influenced by the changing social and political conditions of the Greek world.

Jaeger also discusses the role of paideia in Greek literature and philosophy. He argues that the great works of Greek literature, such as the Iliad and the Odyssey, were not simply works of entertainment, but also vehicles for moral instruction. Similarly, he argues that the philosophical ideas of Plato and Aristotle were rooted in the Greek educational tradition.

Paideia is a magisterial work of scholarship that has had a profound impact on the study of Greek culture. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of education, the development of Western thought, or the nature of human excellence.

Why You Should Read Paideia

There are many reasons why you should read Paideia. Here are a few:

It is a classic work of scholarship. Paideia is considered one of the most important works in the field of classical studies. It has been praised for its depth of research, its clarity of thought, and its elegance of style.
It offers a unique perspective on Greek culture. Jaeger argues that the central feature of Greek culture was its focus on education, or paideia. This perspective is different from the traditional view of Greek culture as being primarily focused on art, literature, and philosophy.
It is relevant to contemporary issues. Jaeger's discussion of the role of education in shaping the individual and society is still relevant today. His insights can help us to think about how we can improve our own educational system and create a more just and humane society.

How to Get Paideia

Paideia is available in hardcover, paperback, and ebook formats. You can purchase it from online retailers such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble, or from your local bookstore.

Conclusion

Paideia is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of education, the development of Western thought, or the nature of human excellence. It is a classic work of scholarship that offers a unique perspective on Greek culture and is still relevant to contemporary issues.