In this course, the first of two in two successive semesters, we thoroughly examine Thomas Aquinas’s philosophical anthropology. While initially covering some of the main themes and concepts, we then put Aquinas’s overall perspective into conversation with some of the major philosophers of the canon. In addition, we explore some questions relevant to contemporary philosophy, especially philosophy of biology. This course, in preparation for the second semester, equips students with the skills to engage some very major contemporary anthropological questions