Colin Burrow, an academic specializing in 19th-century British literature, dives deep into Jane Austen's 'Mansfield Park.' He highlights Fanny Price's challenges as a poor relation, revealing the novel's sharp critique of wealth and morality. Discussion centers on the theme of 'improvement' symbolized by Mr. Rushworth's estate and contrasts Fanny's moral fortitude with her relatives' ignorance of slavery's implications. The conversation unpacks the transactional nature of marriage and how social status complicates personal ambitions in Austen's world.

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'.