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The Great Books

Latest episodes

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Feb 11, 2025 • 32min

Episode 359: 'Letters from a Farmer in Pennsylvania' by John Dickinson

John J. Miller is joined by Jane E. Calvert to discuss 'Letters from a Farmer in Pennsylvania' by John Dickinson.
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Feb 4, 2025 • 35min

Episode 358: The Poem of the Cid

John J. Miller is joined by Nora Berend of the University of Cambridge to discuss The Poem of the Cid.
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5 snips
Jan 28, 2025 • 28min

Episode 357: 'On First Principles' by Origen

In this engaging discussion, Paula Fredriksen, a leading scholar on early Christianity, explores Origen's groundbreaking work, 'On First Principles.' She delves into the complexity of early Christian thought, highlighting Origen's intellectual struggles and his systematic approach to theology. The conversation challenges common perceptions of early Christians as mere victims, showcasing their vibrant cultural involvement. Fredriksen also examines Origen’s mixed legacy, as both a revolutionary thinker and a heretic, shaping the theological landscape we see today.
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Jan 21, 2025 • 36min

Episode 356: The Letters of Epicurus

Join Spencer Klavan, associate editor of the Claremont Review of Books and author of 'How to Save the West,' as he explores the profound letters of Epicurus. Discover the impact of Epicureanism on contemporary thought and the misconceptions surrounding it. Klavan discusses Philodemus's role in preserving these philosophies and how modern technology is uncovering lost texts. The conversation also touches on the philosophical debates between Adams and Jefferson, revealing the relevance of Epicurus's teachings on happiness and morality today.
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Jan 14, 2025 • 32min

Episode 355: The Book of Judith

John J. Miller is joined by Silvina Sironi of the Word on Fire Institute to discuss the Book of Judith.
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Jan 7, 2025 • 29min

Episode 354: 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco

John J. Miller is joined by Andrew Hui of Yale-NUS College to discuss 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco.
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Dec 17, 2024 • 32min

Episode 353: 'Ajax' by Sophocles

John J. Miller is joined by James Brandon of Hillsdale College to discuss 'Ajax' by Sophocles.
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Dec 10, 2024 • 37min

Episode 352: 'The Narrative of Cabeza de Vaca'

John J. Miller is joined by Dennis Blanton of James Madison University to discuss 'The Narrative of Cabeza de Vaca.'
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Dec 3, 2024 • 37min

Episode 351: 'Geography' by Strabo

John J. Miller is joined by Sarah Pothecary to discuss 'Geography' by Strabo.
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15 snips
Nov 26, 2024 • 34min

Episode 350: 'The Histories' by Herodotus

In this engaging discussion, Paul A. Rahe, a celebrated historian from Hillsdale College, dives deep into Herodotus's influential work, 'The Histories.' They explore the blend of fact and myth in Herodotus's accounts of the Persian Wars, particularly focusing on iconic battles like Marathon. The conversation also examines the intricate narrative structure and themes of freedom versus slavery within Greek history. Rahe reflects on the legacy of the Battle of Thermopylae and draws parallels to modern conflicts, emphasizing Herodotus's lasting significance.

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