Books of Titans Podcast

Dive into a transformative reading journey featuring Greek tragedies, comedies, and an exciting shift to philosophy in 2025. The host reflects on their ambitious reading goals, including tackling the works of Plato, while sharing plans for a new reading group focused on short classics. There's a personal touch as past experiences with the King James Bible are discussed, shedding light on its literary significance. Emphasizing the joy of classic literature, the speaker encourages a balanced approach, blending structured plans with spontaneity.

Explore the journey of intellectual curiosity and lifelong learning. Discover how just two hours a day can enrich your mind and life. Delve into the importance of developing strong reading habits and engaging with timeless literature. Learn about the power of purposeful reading and the vital role sleep plays in processing knowledge. This discussion not only offers practical advice but also encourages a deeper connection between ideas for a more fulfilling intellectual pursuit.

The host reflects on a remarkable year focused on Greek literature, sharing insights from epic poetry, tragedies, and fables. They dive into Aesop's fables and discuss modern challenges depicted in contemporary works. Personal growth through impactful reads is emphasized, along with top book recommendations that bridge classic and modern texts. Engaging conversations about Aeschylus and Thucydides reveal enduring themes like war and philosophy. Finally, the host connects Athenian thought to modern politics while outlining exciting future reading plans.

I used to think that great art had to have come from a great-souled artist with an honorable life. How else would you be able to forge David out of a slab of marble or compose an entire opera in your head? A minimum of a pure mind combined with superhuman abilities must have been required, right?Actually, art is oftentimes forged through intense suffering in the life of the artist. It’s suffering we know well as we also experience it to varying degrees. That’s the power of this book. It highlights Sacred Failures.In this episode, I cover three artists, what I learned about them, and how that shifted how I now see their art. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.booksoftitans.com/subscribe

Teaching is fundamental to daily life, and its methods can shape our interactions. Discover the critical role of primary sources in deep learning and the importance of creating engaging environments. Explore the bond between teaching and learning, fostering critical thinking through student-driven discovery. The discussion critiques the influence of modern distractions against the timeless benefits of literature and philosophy. Lastly, it advocates for inspiring intrinsic motivation in education while promoting a community reading group.

“And after this, not many days later…”Xenophon begins his history with these words. The “after this…” refers to the writings of Thucydides, which abruptly end in the midst of the Peloponnesian War in 411BC. Xenophon takes up the mantle and takes us first to the end of the Peloponnesian War in 404BC and then on to 362BC.Xenophon’s work takes us through the decline of the Athenian empire into the rise of the Spartans, Boeotians, and then Thebans. Throughout the work, the Persians are making their presence known as well.It’s a fascinating history, one that sets the stage for the eventual Macedonian takeover. I kept thinking about the literature and philosophy being composed during these years. Some of the world’s greatest works were created during this period of history.In this episode, I share the main things that stuck out about topics such as government, justice, and tradition. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.booksoftitans.com/subscribe

Theo of Golden is a man “fully invested in the art of living.” He’s a character you want to emulate. A good man whose kindness is made up of “little, nameless, unremembered acts.” As the reader, we get to see how these small, daily acts weave throughout a small, fictional, Georgia town.This book was gifted to me by a publisher well acquainted with the written word. It’s her job to quickly work through books and see if they have merit. She read this book and then promptly read it four additional times. She was stunned.I now see why she wanted to do that. I plan to read it again later this month.I loved this book. It reminded me of Sir Gibbie by George MacDonald and Jayber Crow by Wendell Berry. In this episode, I share a few of my favorite things about this incredible book. I hope you read the book one or maybe five times! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.booksoftitans.com/subscribe

Dive into the complexities of Thucydides' account of the Peloponnesian War, where battles are more about strategy than spectacle. Discover how naval engagements and proxy conflicts shaped this historical narrative. Explore the dramatic speeches that bring tension and engage readers with the unfolding events. The stark contrasts between Athenian democracy and Spartan oligarchy are dissected, revealing insights into governance and the human experience in wartime. Themes of panic and decision-making emerge, making ancient lessons resonate with modern audiences.

Andromache's heart-wrenching journey unfolds after the Trojan War, marked by profound grief and an unwanted marriage to Neoptolemus. Themes of love, vengeance, and jealousy create a complex backdrop for her tragic fate. Divine intervention plays a pivotal role as Andromache's suffering contrasts sharply with Hermione's struggles. The interplay between Euripides' work and the Iliad deepens the tragedy, showcasing women's suffering and the moral dilemmas stemming from loyalty and justice in a world torn by war.

Dive into the tragic tale of Heracles and his descent into madness induced by the gods. This narrative unfolds during the Peloponnesian War, exploring themes of guilt, betrayal, and the power of friendship. The horrific moment when Heracles accidentally harms his family highlights the emotional turmoil he faces. Theseus steps in as a beacon of support, showcasing the profound bonds that help navigate grief. Coupled with a historical lens, this tragedy offers a reflection on the madness of war and its psychological toll on soldiers.