The Literary Life Podcast Episode 274: The Literary Life of Dr. Anne Phillips
Apr 29, 2025
Dr. Anne Phillips, a passionate teacher of Latin and Greek with a PhD in classical studies, discusses her enriching homeschool experience and love for Greek myths. She emphasizes the necessity of quality literature in nurturing discernment among readers. The conversation dives into the challenges of academia today and the vivid interplay between literature and family life. Dr. Phillips also shares insights on her Substack writing and the importance of engaging students with classical texts, making a compelling case for reviving classical education.
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Early Exposure to Classics
- Anne Phillips was read the Iliad, Odyssey, and Aeneid before age 8, with the real original texts, not abridged versions.
- This early exposure created a lasting acquaintance with the characters, fostering a natural love for classical literature.
Self-Taught Latin Journey
- Anne Phillips taught herself Latin at age 12 or 13 by quietly gathering books and working through them independently.
- Her eagerness to read Latin overcame difficulties and lack of formal instruction.
Good Readers Avoid Bad Books
- Becoming a good reader means learning to discern quality literature, which will lead to naturally disliking lesser quality books.
- Exposure to great literature builds literary taste that rejects lower quality books like Twilight or The Fault in Our Stars.