Questions from Listeners

The Oxford Illustrated History of Christianity offers a comprehensive overview of Christian history, from its origins to the present day. The book is structured chronologically, presenting a series of essays written by leading scholars from various denominational backgrounds. This approach provides diverse perspectives on key events and figures, enriching the reader's understanding. The essays are well-written and engaging, making the book accessible to both students and general readers. It serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the history of Christianity.

The Song of Roland is an 11th-century chanson de geste that tells the story of the Battle of Roncevaux Pass in AD 778. The poem centers around Roland, the nephew of Charlemagne, who is betrayed by his stepfather Ganelon and led into an ambush by the Saracens. Despite being vastly outnumbered, Roland and his men fight valiantly, but ultimately, Roland dies after blowing his oliphant to call for help, though it comes too late. The poem explores themes of honor, feudal duty, and religious belief, and it is structured around four great scenes that balance each other, culminating in Charlemagne's vengeance for Roland's death and the punishment of Ganelon for his treachery.

Beowulf is an Old English epic poem that chronicles the daring deeds of its titular hero, Beowulf. The story begins with Beowulf's journey to help King Hrothgar of the Danes, whose mead hall, Heorot, is terrorized by the monster Grendel. Beowulf kills Grendel and later Grendel's mother, then returns to his homeland to become king of the Geats. After ruling for 50 years, he faces his final battle against a fire-breathing dragon, which ultimately leads to his death. The poem explores themes of heroism, fate, and the struggle between civilization and wilderness.

Meditations is a series of private writings composed by Marcus Aurelius, one of Rome's greatest emperors, as he struggled to understand himself and make sense of the universe. Written between 170 and 180 CE while on military campaigns, this work combines Stoic philosophy with personal observations on leadership, duty, mortality, and human nature. Through twelve books of intimate thoughts never intended for publication, Marcus Aurelius explores themes of self-improvement, resilience in the face of adversity, and living virtuously while accepting what cannot be changed.