Clare Bucknell, a literary contributor, and Colin Burrow, an expert on Austen, dive into the social intricacies of 'Emma,' especially a revealing picnic scene. Judith Butler, a leading philosopher, joins Adam Shatz to discuss misogyny and the dualities of womanhood from 'The Second Sex,' shedding light on societal constructs. Meanwhile, Emily Wilson and Thomas Jones unpack Herodotus' 'Histories,' exploring the narrative complexities of truth and empire, plus their insights on cultural practices that define Greek identity.

Colin Burrow, an expert on Orwell's writing and his vision of socialism, joins Tom to explore the cultural conservatism and crackling violence in Orwell's works. They discuss his appeal to teenagers, the allegorical nature of 'Animal Farm,' his powerful imagery, his controversial list of suspected communists, and the portrayal of totalitarian behavior and satire in '1984'.