January 23

Born in Naples in 1668, he studied law and poetry before turning to philosophy and history. His principal work, the Scienza Nuova, introduced a cyclical theory of civilizations and the concept of verum factum. He argued that human society and institutions could only be understood through the study of language, myths, and customs. His ideas challenged the rationalist orthodoxy of his time and anticipated later developments in anthropology and hermeneutics. Despite limited recognition during his life, his work gained prominence in the 18th and 19th centuries. He remains celebrated for his interdisciplinary approach and profound insights into human culture.

Northrop Frye was born in 1912 in Sherbrooke, Canada, and became one of the most important literary critics of the 20th century. In his landmark work 'Anatomy of Criticism,' he introduced new frameworks for understanding the patterns and archetypes in literature. Frye served as a professor at the University of Toronto, mentoring generations of scholars. His theories on myth and symbolism reshaped literary studies and influenced critics worldwide. He authored numerous essays and books on a wide range of subjects, from Shakespearean drama to biblical literature. Frye passed away in 1991, leaving a profound legacy in both literary theory and education.

Born in New York City in 1938, Robert Nozick was a leading figure in analytic philosophy and political theory. After earning his doctorate at Princeton University, he joined Harvard University’s faculty, where he taught for decades. His landmark book "Anarchy, State, and Utopia" (1974) presented a rigorous argument for a minimal state based on individual rights. Nozick also authored influential works such as "Philosophical Explanations" and "The Examined Life," exploring topics from metaphysics to ethics. Engaging critically with contemporaries like John Rawls, he shaped modern debates on justice, freedom, and the role of government. Nozick’s clear writing and original ideas cemented his reputation as a philosopher of enduring impact until his passing in 2002.