Nathan Gilbert

Dr. Nathan Gilbert is an Associate Professor in the Department of Classics and Ancient History at Durham University and a member of the Institute of Medieval and Early Modern Studies. He holds a PhD from the University of Toronto (2015) and a BA from Carleton College (USA), with additional studies at the University of Bonn as a DAAD scholar. His research focuses on Cicero’s philosophical works, particularly their engagement with Roman contemporaries like Atticus and Varro, challenging traditional views of Cicero as a mere Hellenistic translator. He also explores Epicureanism, the Herculaneum papyri (collaborating on a Metrodorus edition), and Buddhist philosophy, aiming to integrate Greco-Roman and Indian philosophical traditions.

His teaching encompasses supervision of MA/PhD students in areas like Cicero, Hellenistic philosophy, and comparative philosophy. He actively promotes classical studies through outreach lectures on topics such as Epicurus’ religious views and Lucretius’ work. Current research directions include Pāli language modules at Durham and interdisciplinary projects linking ancient and Asian philosophies.

Major publications include co-editing Power and Persuasion in Cicero’s Philosophy (2023) and chapters on Cicero’s De Officiis and Atticus’ Epicurean leanings. His work bridges textual analysis with social history, emphasizing the dynamic intellectual networks of ancient Rome.