
Books of Titans Podcast
Welcome to the Books of Titans Podcast where I (Erik Rostad) seek truth & beauty in the Immortal Books. My goal is to read the Great Books written by 200 authors over the next 15 years and share what I’m learning. I’ll talk a bit about each book, tie ideas together from a variety of genres, and share the one thing I always hope to remember from each of the Immortal Books. www.booksoftitans.com
Latest episodes

Dec 8, 2023 • 14min
On Greek Literature by St. Basil the Great
In this episode, Erik Rostad discusses the Address to Young Men on Reading Greek Literature on how they might derive profit from pagan literature, book 43 for his 2023 reading list. Show Notes Author: St. Basil the Great Version: Loeb Classical Library Read for Free Online My Thoughts about On Greek Literature The Great Books...The post On Greek Literature by St. Basil the Great appeared first on Books of Titans. 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

Dec 1, 2023 • 25min
The Homeric Hymns
In this episode, Erik Rostad discusses The Homeric Hymns, book 42 for his 2023 reading list. Show Notes Author: Homer Version: Oxford World’s Classics / Translation by Michael Crudden My Thoughts about The Homeric Hymns The Great Books Reading List 2023 Reading List Reading Resources Books of Titans WebsiteThe post The Homeric Hymns appeared first on Books of Titans. 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

Nov 17, 2023 • 37min
The Odyssey by Homer
The significance of the first section of The Odyssey, exploring translations of the first word 'man'. Exploring the character of Odysseus and themes of hospitality. Themes of hospitality and friendship in The Odyssey, examining the concept of guest friendship. Reflections on The Odyssey as a mythological and fantastical journey. Contrasts and irony in 'The Odyssey', exploring dynamics and character comparisons. No 'happily ever after' ending in the Odyssey, discussing consequences and realism.

Nov 3, 2023 • 59min
The Iliad by Homer
In this episode, Erik Rostad discusses The Iliad by Homer, book 38 for his 2023 reading list. Show Notes Author: Homer Emily Wilson Translation Purchase The Iliad from Landmark Booksellers My Thoughts about The Iliad The Great Books Reading List 2023 Reading List Reading Resources Books of Titans WebsiteThe post The Iliad by Homer appeared first on Books of Titans. 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

12 snips
Oct 20, 2023 • 20min
Three Powerful Ideas from Books for our Time
This podcast explores three pressing concerns of our modern era: depression, division, and distraction. It draws on timeless lessons from books to offer insights and solutions. It discusses the importance of having a sense of responsibility for others and finding a purpose. It explores the idea that every individual carries both good and evil within them. It emphasizes the significance of reading and raises concerns about the over-reliance on technology. It explores the importance of personal changes and the ripple effect on societal issues.

28 snips
Oct 6, 2023 • 43min
The Greek Way by Edith Hamilton
Host Erik Rostad discusses 'The Greek Way' by Edith Hamilton, a guidebook for Greek literature, highlighting the relevance of understanding Greek culture. They explore various aspects of Greek culture and its influence, including the clash of civilizations, tragedy in Greek literature, and the creation of gods in Greek mythology. The chapter also delves into Aristotle's definition of happiness and the historical shift in focus and values influenced by the church and the Renaissance.

Sep 22, 2023 • 29min
Mythology by Edith Hamilton
Explore the significance of Greek mythology through 'Mythology by Edith Hamilton' as a critical primer, discussing relatable Greek gods, flood stories, and guilt in literature. The podcast emphasizes understanding different beliefs in myths, the Norse gods section, and the importance of acquiring knowledge about mythology before delving into Greek literature.

Sep 15, 2023 • 56min
The Histories by Herodotus
The host discusses his reading of 'The Histories' by Herodotus and the importance of preserving human events through research. They explore the clash of civilizations between Greece and Persia, the recurring presence of oracles, different types of governments, Fallipities' incredible feat, the Scythian customs, and highly recommend reading 'The Histories' for its relatability and ability to explain complex battles and historic changes.

Sep 8, 2023 • 21min
Persians by Lloyd Llewellyn-Jones
In this episode, Erik Rostad discusses Persians: The Age of the Great Kings by Lloyd Llewellyn-Jones, book 20 for his 2023 reading list. Show Notes Author: Lloyd Llewellyn-Jones Assyria Episode Babylon Episode The Great Books Reading List 2023 Reading List Reading Resources Books of Titans WebsiteThe post Persians by Lloyd Llewellyn-Jones appeared first on Books of Titans. 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

Aug 25, 2023 • 47min
Sappho
In this episode, Erik Rostad discusses the poetry of Sappho through the translations of Aaron Poochigian in Sappho: Stung with Love Poems and Fragments and Anne Carson in Sappho: If Not, Winter, Fragments of Sappho. This is Great Book #10 and books #33 & #34 for his 2023 reading list. Show Notes Author: Sappho Translators:...The post Sappho appeared first on Books of Titans. 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