The podcast explores the evolution of Aristotelian philosophy in Britain from the late 15th to the late 16th century. It discusses the impact of grammar schools, Protestantism, and literacy on British scholasticism. Topics include the use of Latin in logical treatises, propositions and moral reasoning in British scholasticism, and the views on scholastic philosophy and the rise of humanist rhetoric. The chapter also highlights John Mair's involvement in public matters and introduces John Case as a key figure in reviving scholasticism in the late Tudor period.

Examining the limitations faced by women in expressing their literary genius in Elizabethan society, the influential work of 15th-century writer Marjorie Camp, her unconventional life challenging societal norms and relationship with God, and the opportunities for women writers in the 16th century.

Exploring the anxieties and explanations of witchcraft in Shakespeare's Macbeth, discussing supernatural elements, historical context, attitudes towards witchcraft in the 16th and 17th centuries, and the portrayal of Lady Macbeth as a fiend-like queen.

Exploring the motives behind English colonization efforts and the perception of native populations. Examining Shakespeare's play 'The Tempest' as a reflection on colonialism. Analyzing the connection between Montaigne's essay 'On Cannibals' and Shakespeare's play. Challenging the idea of Shakespeare as a colonizer.

How the Renaissance turn towards individual identity is reflected in Shakespeare's most famous play. 

We're joined by Patrick Gray to discuss Shakespeare's knowledge of philosophy, his ethics, and his influence on such thinkers as Hegel.

How should we approach Shakespeare’s plays as philosophical texts? We take as examples skepticism and politics in Othello, King Lear, and Julius Caesar.

We begin to look at Elizabethan literature, as Sidney argues that poetry is superior to philosophy, and philosophy is put to use in Spenser’s "Fairie Queene".

Richard Hooker defends the religious and political settlement of Elizabethan England using rational arguments and appeals to the natural law.

The evolution of ideas about kingship and the role of the “three estates” in 15th and 16th century England, with a focus on John Fortescue and Thomas Starkey.