Well, this class has come to an end and not going to lie, I am very happy I took this class. From Sophie's World to the countless conversations and thought provoking ideas we have done in class, I've been introduced to many different and new ideas and concepts that will stick with me for a long time.

Theses are the three that stands out to me the most. From Plato's influence in philosophy and his limitless ideas, writings, and sayings.
From the scientific, political, social, cultural and artistic achievements and enhancements that came from The Renaissance that spanned from the 14th through the 17th century.
And from the emphasis of science and reason, political and social theories, and the expansion of education and literacy that came from the impact of The Enlightenment,
these 3 concepts discussed in class are anticipated to be very impactful and important in my life for years to come

Lets start with Plato. I'm pretty sure you all remember him. His name seemed to be brought up all semester long and for good reason. Plato was a philosopher who lived in ancient Greece during the 4th century BCE, and he is widely regarded as one of the most important thinkers in the Western philosophical tradition. Plato's contributions to philosophy, politics, and literature are still studied and debated today, and his ideas have had a significant influence on Western culture and thought. Plato is important for his contributions to philosophy, his foundational ideas, his influence on other philosophers, and his literary contributions.

Plato's abstract concepts are explored in Sophie's World. Plato's theory of Forms is studied by Sophie as justice, goodness, and beauty are explained to only exist outside the standards of the "real world". The novel also speaks about Sophie's curiosity of her own reality and by diving deeper into Plato's philosophies of knowledge and virtue she is able to discover that she is merely just a character in a book written by another character. The twist in the novel reveals Plato's ideas and applications when it comes to the distinction between reality and appearance.

The Renaissance was a period of great cultural and intellectual revival in Europe. It is considered one of the most significant periods in human history, as it marked a transition from the medieval period to the modern era. The Renaissance had a profound impact on many aspects of society, including art, literature, science, religion, politics, and philosophy. The Renaissance was a time of great innovation and creativity that had a lasting impact on Western culture and society. Its legacy can be seen in everything from the art and literature we appreciate today to the scientific discoveries that continue to shape our understanding of the world.

During the Renaissance, there was a renewed interest in classical Greek and Roman philosophy, which led to a shift away from the dominant philosophical and theological doctrines of the Middle Ages. This led to an increased focus on humanism, individualism, and rationalism, which are all themes that are explored in Sophie's World. One of the most significant figures of the Renaissance, and someone who is mentioned in Sophie's World, is the philosopher René Descartes. Descartes is known for his emphasis on reason and his famous statement "Cogito, ergo sum" ("I think, therefore I am"). This idea of self-awareness and the importance of individual thought is a key theme in Sophie's World.

The Enlightenment, which emerged in the 18th century, was a period of intellectual and cultural growth that emphasized reason, individualism, and the scientific method. This movement greatly influenced the development of modern Western society, including the formation of democratic governments, the advancement of scientific knowledge, and the promotion of individual rights and freedoms. The Enlightenment laid the groundwork for many of the political, social, and cultural ideals that continue to shape the world today.

The Enlightenment had a significant impact on the concepts and ideas presented in Sophie's World. The Enlightenment emphasized the importance of reason, critical thinking, and scientific inquiry, which are all central themes in the novel. Albert Knag, in my opinion, represents the Enlightenment worldview and the emphasis on empirical evidence and rational thinking. He challenges Sophie to think critically about the world around her and to question traditional beliefs and values. The Enlightenment also emphasized the importance of individualism and the value of human liberty and equality. These themes are reflected through Sophie, who learns to assert her own identity and independence.

All three of these concepts are important in a lot of ways.
We can talk about their impacts on western philosophy, culture, and society. The Renaissance emphasized humanism, individualism, and the importance of the arts and sciences. Plato did the same in his ideas about the nature of reality, the role of the philosopher, and the importance of justice and virtue continue to be studied and debated today. last, but definitely not least, The Enlightenment laid the groundwork for many of the political, social, and cultural ideals that continue to shape the world today, including human rights, democracy, and scientific progress.

Now personally, The Renaissance, Plato, and the Enlightenment are important to me because they offer valuable insights into human nature, the world around me, and the ways in which I can live meaningful and fulfilling lives. For me, the Renaissance can serve as an inspiration to embrace my creativity, which already has happened, pursue knowledge and education, and seek out new experiences and opportunities in life. In addition, Plato's emphasis on self-examination and the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom has inspired me already to engage in personal growth and development, through meditation, affirmations, and breathing. Also, The Enlightenment encourages critical thinking, skepticism, and a willingness to question traditional beliefs and values. These qualities can help me make informed decisions, avoid superstition, and pursue my goals and aspirations with confidence and clarity which is huge for my specific career choice.