EI Weekly Listen — Daisy Dunn on the pursuit of greatness

Daisy Dunn, an expert on heroic figures and their societal impact, delves into the allure of greatness shaped by ancient myths. She explores how legendary figures like Romulus and Aeneas influenced cultural identities. Dunn discusses the Aeneid as a foundational text and critiques its connections to Augustus's regime. The conversation also reveals how political leaders leverage ancestral myths for legitimacy, echoing timeless themes of heroism in modern politics. Finally, she critiques the modern perception of greatness, advocating for an understanding of flawed historical characters.