The Daily Stoic Ask Daily Stoic: Ryan and Angel Parham On Why Studying the Classics Is So Important
Join Ryan and Angel Parham as they delve into the world of classical literature. Angel, a sociology professor and co-founder of the Nyansa Classical Community, discusses her journey of falling in love with the classics and their vital role in education. They explore how classic texts nurture moral imagination in children and address the complexities of teaching these works within the African-American heritage context. Engage with innovative methods to make classics accessible and relevant, fostering a deeper understanding of their timeless wisdom.
47:13
Introduction to Classics
- Angel Parham's high school teacher dramatically recited Chaucer, inspiring her to study English Literature.
- However, she felt discouraged in her introductory Latin class at Yale due to her peers' advanced knowledge.
How The Classics Are Taught
- Seneca criticized teaching the Odyssey for rote memorization instead of practical life lessons.
- Parham agreed, arguing for engaging with literature for personal growth, not just analysis.
Getting Started with Classics
- Start with simplified versions of classic texts, like children's picture books.
- Gradually increase complexity as understanding grows.
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Intro
00:00 • 2min
The Enduring Influence of Classic Literature on Stoic Thought
02:07 • 2min
Exploring the Classics Through a Modern Lens
04:09 • 3min
Reviving Classics: A Journey Through Literature
07:07 • 22min
The Moral Value of Classic Literature in Education
29:23 • 5min
Bridging Classic Literature and African-American Heritage
33:56 • 17min
The Timeless Wisdom of Classical Literature
50:48 • 2min
#23
• Mentioned in 218 episodes
The War of Art
Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles
Steven Pressfield
In 'The War of Art', Steven Pressfield identifies the internal force of 'Resistance' that hinders creative endeavors.
The book is divided into three sections: 'Resistance: Defining the Enemy', 'Combating Resistance: Turning Pro', and a final section that discusses the role of the muses and the battle between the Self and the Ego. Pressfield provides practical advice on recognizing and overcoming resistance, emphasizing the importance of professionalism, discipline, and continuous work in achieving creative success.
#53
• Mentioned in 145 episodes
Letters from a Stoic
Seneca
Seneca's "Letters from a Stoic" comprises a collection of personal letters offering practical advice on living a virtuous life according to Stoic principles.
Written to Lucilius, a friend and student, the letters cover a wide range of topics, including dealing with adversity, managing emotions, and finding inner peace.
Seneca's writing style is engaging and relatable, making complex philosophical concepts accessible to a wider audience.
The letters offer timeless wisdom on self-improvement and ethical living.
They remain a valuable resource for anyone seeking guidance on navigating life's challenges.
#178
• Mentioned in 73 episodes
The Republic
Plato
#181
• Mentioned in 72 episodes
Nicomachean Ethics
Aristotle
The Nicomachean Ethics is Aristotle's most renowned work on ethics, focusing on the science of the good for human life.
The text is divided into ten books and discusses the concept of eudaimonia, often translated as 'happiness' or 'flourishing,' which is achieved through living a virtuous life.
Aristotle argues that eudaimonia is an activity of the soul in accordance with virtue, emphasizing the importance of reason, moral virtues, and the pursuit of excellence.
The work also explores the division of the soul, the role of rationality in human life, and the ultimate goal of human activity, which is to achieve happiness through virtuous actions and a complete life.
#56941
Tending the Heart of Virtue
Not Available
Angel Parham
No information available about this specific book.
Dr. Angel Adams Parham is known for her work in sociology and classical education.
#3715
• Mentioned in 7 episodes
Shakespeare
William Shakespeare
#103
• Mentioned in 104 episodes
The Enchiridion
Epictetus
Tony Darnell
Thomas Wentworth Higginson
The Enchiridion is a concise summary of the basic ideas of Stoic philosophy and provides techniques for transforming these principles into a way of life.
It was compiled by Arrian from the teachings of Epictetus and is notable for its practical advice on moral conduct in various life situations.
Unlike the Discourses, which present Epictetus' teachings in a more dynamic and situational context, the Enchiridion is a more structured and concise guide to Stoic living.
#75
• Mentioned in 127 episodes
Lives of the Stoics
The Art of Living from Zeno to Marcus Aurelius
Ryan Holiday
Stephen Hanselman
This book presents the fascinating lives of twenty-six ancient Stoics, from Zeno to Marcus Aurelius, organized in digestible mini-biographies.
It vividly brings to life the stories of key Stoic philosophers, such as Seneca, Epictetus, and Cicero, and demonstrates how their philosophies shaped their actions and legacies.
The authors intertwine historical context with philosophical insights, making the book both educational and entertaining.
It shows how Stoic principles can be applied to modern life, emphasizing virtues like Courage, Justice, Temperance, and Wisdom.
#6905
• Mentioned in 4 episodes
Memoirs
A Twentieth-Century Journey in Science and Politics
Edward Teller
In this autobiography, Edward Teller recounts his life journey from his early childhood in Hungary to his significant contributions in nuclear physics.
The book covers his early love of music and mathematics, his interactions with influential scientists such as Niels Bohr and Enrico Fermi, and his role in pivotal scientific and political events, including the discovery of nuclear fission and the development of the hydrogen bomb.
#2726
• Mentioned in 10 episodes
Iliad and the Odyssey
Homer
The Iliad is an epic poem set during the Trojan War, focusing on the wrath of Achilles and the final weeks of the siege of Troy.
The Odyssey follows Odysseus as he travels home from the war, facing various challenges and encounters along the way.
Both poems are central to Greek mythology and have been influential in Western literature, composed in Homeric Greek around the late 8th or early 7th century BC. They were likely part of a long oral tradition before being written down and are known for their use of dactylic hexameter and the literary device of starting in the middle of the story (in medias res).
#2079
• Mentioned in 12 episodes
The Souls of Black Folk
Héctor Arnau
Patricia H. Hinchey
Eugene F. Provenzo
Slingshot Books
Henry Louis Gates, Jr.
W.E.B. Du Bois
Brent Hayes Edwards
Monty
Karl Simrock
Monica M. Elbert
Arnold Rampersad
Shawn Alexander
Prentice Onayemi
Farah Jasmine Griffin
Walter Covell
Published in 1903, 'The Souls of Black Folk' is a foundational text of American literature and sociology.
The book explores themes of race, identity, and the quest for equality in an era marked by systemic racism and segregation.
Du Bois reflects on the historical context of Emancipation, the double-consciousness of being both Black and American, and the struggles of the Black community.
His prophetic remarks and critical insights have been cited as the intellectual framework for the Civil Rights movement and continue to influence contemporary writers.
#19418
• Mentioned in 2 episodes
Tales from Shakespeare
Karin S. Coddon
Charles Lamb
Mary Lamb
Written by Charles and Mary Lamb in 1807, 'Tales from Shakespeare' is a collection of prose retellings of twenty Shakespeare plays.
The book is designed to make Shakespeare's works more accessible to young readers while retaining the original language and essence of the plays.
Mary Lamb retold the comedies and romances, while Charles Lamb handled the tragedies.
The book has been illustrated by various artists over the years, including Arthur Rackham and Louis Monziès, and has never been out of print since its initial publication.
#3079
• Mentioned in 9 episodes
Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave
Frederick Douglass
Published in 1845, this narrative provides a firsthand account of the harsh realities of slavery and the pervasive racism of 19th-century America.
Douglass recounts his early life on a Maryland plantation, his determination to educate himself despite the odds, and his eventual escape to freedom.
The book exposes the dehumanizing effects of slavery and challenges prevailing notions about race and equality.
It remains a vital piece of American literature, fostering discussions on issues of race, equality, and the pursuit of freedom.
#7228
• Mentioned in 4 episodes
De oratore
Cicero
Cicero's De Oratore is a significant work on rhetoric and oratory, exploring the art of public speaking and persuasion.
While not solely focused on memory, it touches upon the importance of memory in effective communication.
Cicero's writings reflect the advanced understanding of memory techniques in ancient Rome.
The work highlights the value of memory training in classical education and its role in mastering the art of rhetoric.
It provides insights into the cultural context of memory in ancient society.
#13744
• Mentioned in 2 episodes
Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral
(1773)
Phillis Wheatley
Phillis Wheatley's "Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral" stands as a landmark achievement in American literature.
Published in 1773, it was the first book of poetry published in English by an African-American writer.
Wheatley's work showcases her remarkable intellect and mastery of language, addressing themes of faith, freedom, and the human condition.
Her poems often employed classical allusions and sophisticated poetic techniques, defying the expectations of her time.
The collection's significance extends beyond its literary merit; it served as a powerful testament to the intellectual capabilities of Black individuals and challenged prevailing racist ideologies.
It remains a cornerstone of African-American literary history and a testament to the enduring power of poetry.
#58028
Uncle Wiggily's Adventures
Howard R. Garis
The Uncle Wiggily series, written by Howard R. Garis, features the adventures of Uncle Wiggily Longears, a charming elderly rabbit.
The stories are known for their imaginative characters and exciting escapades, often involving Uncle Wiggily outsmarting various villains.
The series was incredibly popular and has been widely published and illustrated by several artists.
On today’s Daily Stoic Podcast, Ryan and Angel Parham of Loyola University New Orleans talk about the classics: how she first fell in love with them, the importance of classics in education, and what resources are available to bring them into your and your family’s lives.
Angel Parham is a professor at Loyola University New Orleans. She has studied the classics in college and beyond, and is now an advocate of classics-based education. Dr. Parham currently uses a classics-based curriculum to homeschool her children and give them a solid foundation in the values that the classics convey.
Check out Nyansa Classical Community, an organization created by Dr. Parham to bring classical education to underprivileged children in New Orleans: https://nyansaclassicalcommunity.org/
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