Entitled Opinions (about Life and Literature)

Delving into the character of Guido da Montefeltro, the host analyzes his punishment in hell and compares it to Ulysses. They discuss Guido's use of a provincial idiom and delve into his regrets and self-deception. The parallels between Guido and J. Alfred Prufrock are explored, questioning the genuineness of Guido's repentance. Themes of self-doubt, insecurities, and the passage of time are also reflected upon.

Explore Dante's Ulysses, his thirst for knowledge and worldly experiences, and the parallels between his journey and Dante's own adventure in the Divine Comedy. Delve into the contrasting portrayals of Ulysses in Tennyson's and Dante's works, and the symbolism of Ulysses in Western expansionism. Reflect on the need to accept limitations and embrace solitude in the face of a finite world.

In this podcast, Professor Robert Harrison discusses Dante's captivating characters in his Divine Comedy. He explores the irony and deception in the sinners' monologues and analyzes Francesca da Rimini's tragic fate and passionate encounter. The podcast also delves into the intersection of Nietzsche and Francesca's happiness.

Garry Nolan, a professor of immunology at Stanford and active ufology expert, discusses the investigation of UAPs, the extraordinary technology of UFOs, the government's cover-up of UFO knowledge, speculation on the existence of extraterrestrial beings near black holes, and the revolutionary potential of fully informing the public about UFOs.

Dr. Maria Massucco discusses women's trauma in modern & contemporary Italy, exploring the evolution of the mad woman in literature, the portrayal of madness and violence in battle, the influence of feminist scholarship, the relationship between opera and madness, the therapeutic power of literature, and the works of Goliarda Sapienza and contemporary Italian cinema.

A conversation with Corey Dansereau, a PhD Candidate in Modern Thought and Literature at Stanford, about the impact of Giambattista Vico on James Joyce’s writing. Songs in this episode: “Echo” by Glass Wave, and “I Might Be Wrong” by Radiohead.

A monologue in which our host, Professor Robert Harrison, discusses the originality and continued relevance of Giambattista Vico’s New Science (1748). Songs in this episode: “Riders on the Storm” by The Doors, “Nausicaa” by Glass Wave, and “Cycle of Eternity” by Tangerine Dream.

A conversation with guest William Rosenzweig emphasizes the ethics of care in the private and public spheres. The speaker discusses the concept of being a constant gardener, explores the post-lasp Syrian ethic and a surprising encounter in the tool shed, reflects on the power of gardening and mentorship, delves into the historical significance of coffee houses and its relation to gardenism, and highlights the negative consequences of prioritizing profits in business and disregarding stakeholders.

Lydia Maria Child, a prominent American writer and abolitionist of the 19th century, is discussed in this podcast. The topics covered include her activism, her book 'The Frugal Housewife,' and her views on slavery and racism, as well as her admiration for John Brown and her media savvy in promoting the abolitionist cause.

A conversation with Hans Ulrich Gumbrecht, Albert Guérard Professor of Literature (Emeritus) at Stanford University. He is a recurring guest on Entitled Opinions, and he is back to discuss amor mundi, our collective future, and the role of love in politics alongside our host, Professor Robert Harrison.