Life-Changing Books That Inspired Our Classical Education

Jul 30, 2025

Brian Lapsa, Director of UK and European operations at Memoria Press, delves into the life-changing books that sparked his passion for classical education. He discusses key titles like 'The Crisis of Western Education' and 'How to Think Like Shakespeare,' emphasizing how literature challenges and shapes one's perspective. The conversation touches on the transformative power of classic texts, educational philosophies, and the importance of community in fostering a love for learning. It's a journey through influential literature that encourages listeners to rediscover the classics.

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ADVICE

Seven Myths About Education

For understanding progressivism in education, read "Seven Myths About Education" by Daisy Christodoulou.
It's a clear, empirical critique valuable for classical education advocates.

volunteer_activism

ADVICE

Books Critiquing Progressive Education

Diane Ravitch's "The Troubled Crusade" offers an important American perspective on progressive education history.
"Why Johnny Can't Read" is another key text critiquing progressive pedagogy.

insights

INSIGHT

Broader Vision of Classical Education

Paul Schaefer found a broader, more integrated classical education paradigm than the common Dorothy Sayers-focused model.
Latin, Greek, and multilingual classics form a richer, holistic classical education vision.

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Exploring Resources for Classical Education Enthusiasts

01:48 • 2min

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Literary Insights and Educational Reflections

03:23 • 15min

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Journey Through Time and Language

18:20 • 7min

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Classic Inspirations in Education

25:00 • 16min

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Exploring Shakespeare's Macbeth and Its Educational Impact

40:55 • 2min

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Exploring Modern Interpretations of Classic Plays

42:35 • 3min

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#60153

The Fortunes of Captain Blood

Rafael Sabatini

'The Fortunes of Captain Blood' continues the adventures of Peter Blood, the physician-turned-pirate, as he navigates the treacherous waters of the Caribbean. This collection of episodic tales showcases Blood's daring exploits, strategic brilliance, and unwavering sense of justice. From rescuing damsels in distress to outsmarting rival pirates and corrupt officials, Captain Blood faces a variety of challenges that test his mettle. Sabatini's vivid prose and swashbuckling action create an immersive reading experience. The book explores themes of honor, loyalty, and the complexities of morality in a world of piracy and intrigue. It is a thrilling continuation of the Captain Blood saga.

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The crisis of Western education

• Mentioned in 7 episodes

Hard Times

Charles Dickens

Charles Dickens's "Hard Times" is a social critique that explores the dehumanizing effects of industrialization and utilitarianism. The novel contrasts the pragmatic worldview of Mr. Gradgrind, who emphasizes facts and figures above all else, with the imaginative spirit of Sissy Jupe. Through its vivid characters and compelling narrative, the novel exposes the flaws of a society that prioritizes reason over emotion and empathy. Dickens's powerful portrayal of social injustice and the importance of human connection continues to resonate with readers today. The novel's enduring relevance lies in its exploration of timeless themes of social inequality and the human need for compassion.

#625

• Mentioned in 30 episodes

Macbeth

Imdad Hussain

William Shakespeare

Macbeth is a tragedy that explores themes of power, ambition, and the consequences of sin. The play follows Macbeth, a Scottish nobleman, and his wife Lady Macbeth as they navigate a complex web of prophecy, murder, and political intrigue. The witches' prophecy sets off a chain of events that leads to the downfall of Macbeth and the restoration of order in Scotland. The play is known for its dark and haunting atmosphere, its exploration of the human psyche, and its commentary on the nature of tragedy and the human condition.

#11425

• Mentioned in 3 episodes

The Schools We Need and Why We Don't Have Them

E.D. Hirsch Jr

#2529

• Mentioned in 10 episodes

The idea of a university

St. John Henry Newman

John Henry Newman's "The Idea of a University" is a seminal work on higher education, exploring the nature of knowledge, the role of universities in society, and the importance of a liberal education. Newman emphasizes the pursuit of truth for its own sake, arguing that universities should foster intellectual curiosity and critical thinking. He highlights the unity of knowledge, emphasizing the interconnectedness of various disciplines. The book remains highly influential in shaping discussions about the purpose and function of universities. It's a classic text for anyone interested in the philosophy of education.

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How to Think like Shakespeare

Scott Newstok

This book challenges modern educational practices by highlighting the formative habits and practices that shaped minds like Shakespeare's. It explores how mental play, creativity, autonomy, innovation, and freedom can emerge through work, imitation, tradition, constraint, and discipline. Newstok draws on Shakespeare's world and other writers to distill enduring practices for deeper thinking and more effective writing.

#60842

Why Johnny Can't Read

Rudolph Flesch

#7882

• Mentioned in 4 episodes

Why Knowledge Matters

Rescuing Our Children from Failed Educational Theories

E.D. Hirsch Jr

In 'Why Knowledge Matters', E.D. Hirsch, Jr. addresses critical issues in education reform, arguing that a carefully planned, knowledge-based elementary curriculum is essential for preparing students for lifelong success. Hirsch draws on evidence from cognitive science, sociology, and education history to support his argument that a skills-based approach has led to unintended negative consequences. He examines six persistent problems in US education, including over-testing, scapegoating of teachers, and the achievement gap, and advocates for policies aligned with current understandings of neuroscience, developmental psychology, and social science. The book also includes international comparisons, particularly with France, to illustrate the benefits of a knowledge-based curriculum in improving both achievement and equity.

#11397

• Mentioned in 3 episodes

Tom Brown's school days

Thomas Hughes

Published in 1857, 'Tom Brown's School Days' is a novel by Thomas Hughes that chronicles the life of Tom Brown, a young boy attending Rugby School in the 1830s. The story is loosely based on Hughes' own experiences at Rugby School and follows Tom from his early childhood in the Vale of White Horse to his years at Rugby. Tom faces various challenges, including bullying by the notorious Flashman, but finds support and friendship through his relationships with Harry 'Scud' East and George Arthur. Under the guidance of the headmaster, Dr. Thomas Arnold, Tom and his friends learn valuable lessons about morality, responsibility, and personal development. The novel concludes with Tom's growth into a confident and responsible young man, highlighted by his success in a cricket match and his eventual preparation for life beyond school.

#4216

• Mentioned in 7 episodes

Seven Myths About Education

Daisy Christodoulou

#17747

• Mentioned in 2 episodes

• Mentioned in 3 episodes

Murder Must Advertise

Jane McDowell

Dorothy L. Sayers

What books lit the spark for your love of classical education? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, our team shares the life-changing books that first inspired them—and the ones they keep coming back to. These aren’t just recommendations; they’re the stories behind the stories: the books that challenged, shaped, and sustained our passion for classical learning.

We explore early influences, perennial reads, and the moments when a single book opened up an entirely new way of seeing education, virtue, and the human experience. Whether you're deep into classical education or just beginning your journey, this conversation will introduce you to powerful titles that have stood the test of time.

*What We're Reading* from This Episode:

_Murder Must Advertise_—Dorothy L. Sayers (Tanya)

_The Fortunes of Captain Blood_—Rafael Sabatini (Paul)

_The Crisis of Western Education_—Christopher Henry Dawson (Brian)

_How to Think like Shakespeare_—Scott Newstok (Brian)

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