"Edition and commentary of Proba‘s Commentary the Isagoge of Porphyry"

Significant results has been made over the past two decades concerning the identity and the dating of Probus – referred to as Proba in Syriac texts – (prob. 2nd half of 6th c.), a Syriac commentator who has left behind philosophical commentaries on Porphyry's Isagoge, as well as Aristotle's De Interpretatione and Analytica Priora I.1-7.

Among Proba's commentaries, only the one on Aristotle's Analytica Priora has been adequately edited thus far. Therefore, the pressing need for proper editions and annotated translations of Proba's works remains a significant priority for future research.

Of particular importance is Proba's Commentary on the Isagoge, as Porphyry's work held a prominent position in the philosophical curriculum of Neoplatonic schools, serving as a foundation and propaedeutic for the study of Aristotle's logical works. It has been rightly observed that among the preserved Syriac commentaries on Porphyry's text, Proba's Commentary on the Isagoge stands out as the most significant “par sa longuer et par son intérêt propre” (Hugonnard-Roche 2012).

As a commentary on Porphyry's Introduction to Aristotelian Categories, Proba's text represents a twofold level of heteronomy. It serves as a commentary on Porphyry's pre-text (first level), which in turn is an introduction to Aristotle's Categories (second level). This transition between different levels of heteronomy spans nearly a millennium, transcending linguistic (Greek/Syriac), religious (Paganism/Christianity), and cultural (Antiquity/Late Antiquity) differences. Consequently, Proba's Commentary assumes a significant role in the historical continuity of the Aristotelian tradition throughout Antiquity and the Middle Ages.

Aligned with the current research trends and the growing interest in the Syriac philosophical tradition, this project primarly aims to present an updated critical edition of Proba's Commentary on Porphyry's Isagoge. In addition to the edition, a meticulous English translation will be provided, accompanied by an all-encompassing linguistic, literary, and philosophical commentary. This comprehensive package aims to equip scholars in the Syriac philosophical tradition with an invaluable resource, enabling them to delve into relevant inquiries regarding the identity and chronology of the philosopher Proba.