The History of Literature

D.G. Rampton, Australia's Queen of the Regency Romance, delves into her passion for the works of Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer, illuminating the challenges of writing historical romance in a modern context. She shares tales from a chaotic book festival, where hopes clashed with reality amidst disorganization. The conversation offers insights into the delicate balance of crafting strong female characters while remaining historically accurate. Plus, they explore the evolution of Regency men's fashion, bringing wit and allure to life in their stories.

Kenneth Sacks, a Professor of history and classics at Brown University, discusses Ralph Waldo Emerson's complex journey with slavery, revealing his struggle between personal freedom and collective action. Victoria Namkung, a novelist known for her insights on Sui Sin Far, shares her choice for the last book she'd ever read. The conversation takes an intriguing turn as they explore the quirky connection between love hotels in Japan and Herman Melville's Moby-Dick, blending cultural history with literature in an entertaining way.

Reflect on the unpredictable nature of life through the delicate metaphor of butterflies. Delve into heartfelt memories of friendship, capturing the essence of college days filled with adventure and profound conversations. Explore the emotional weight of nostalgia as one roommate confronts the impact of change and loss, reminding us of the fleeting yet beautiful moments that shape our lives.

Join Rachel Feder, an Associate Professor and author of "Daisy," as she breathes new life into F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic. She discusses how her modern retelling reveals the trials of a '90s teen poet, juxtaposing youthful ambition against the backdrop of wealth and societal expectations. The conversation also dives into Daisy Buchanan's character, influenced by early 20th-century socialites, and the complex themes of love and identity that resonate through generations. Francesca Peacock also shares her choice for the last book she would read.

Join Professor Ellen Nerenberg, a leading expert in Italian literature, and author Anthony Valerio, who brings Dante's works to life, as they explore the timeless allure of Dante Alighieri. They delve into Dante's idealized love for Beatrice in 'La Vita Nuova' and discuss how his poetic genius shaped literary history. Topics include the innovative use of vernacular, modern adaptations that enhance Beatrice's character, and the emotional ties between Dante and Florence. Their passion ignites a fresh appreciation for love and artistry in Dante's work.

Anyone digging into fairy tales soon discovers that there's more to these stories of magic and wonder than meets the eye. Often thought of as stories for children, the narratives can be shockingly violent, and they sometimes deliver messages or "morals" at odds with modern sensibilities. In this episode, Jacke talks to Kimberly Lau about her book Specters of the Marvelous: Race and the Development of the European Fairy Tale, which reveals the historical racial context that profoundly influenced these ubiquitous stories. PLUS Rolf Hellebust (How Russian Literature Became Great) stops by to discuss his choice for the last book he will ever read. Additional listening: 604 How Russian Literature Became Great (with Rolf Hellebust) 531 Fairy Tales (with Jack Zipes) 377 The Brothers Grimm The music in this episode is by Gabriel Ruiz-Bernal. Learn more at gabrielruizbernal.com.Help support the show at patreon.com/literature or historyofliterature.com/donate. The History of Literature Podcast is a member of Lit Hub Radio and the Podglomerate Network. Learn more at thepodglomerate.com/historyofliterature. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sara Atwood, a PhD in English literature, and Collin Jennings, an expert in Enlightenment thought, delve into the life and legacy of John Ruskin, a crucial figure in literature and social reform. They discuss Ruskin's powerful influence on art and social justice, highlighting his foundations of the Guild of St. George. The conversation touches on misconceptions about his personal life and his enduring impact on figures like Gandhi. Jennings also shares insights on his choice of 'Tom Jones' as his last book, exploring its humor, mortality themes, and literary companionship.

For the past ten years, the Murty Classical Library of India (published by Harvard University Press) has sought to do for classic Indian works what the famous Loeb Classical Library has done for Ancient Greek and Roman texts. In this episode, Jacke talks to editorial director Sharmila Sen about the joys and challenges of sifting through thousands of years of Indic works and bringing literary treasures to the general public, as well as a new book, Ten Indian Classics, which highlights ten of the fifty works published in the collection so far. PLUS bookmaker and book historian Adam Smyth (The Book-Makers: A History of the Book in Eighteen Lives) discusses his choice for the last book he will ever read. Additional listening: 613 Celebrating the Book-Makers (with Adam Smyth) 381 C. Subramania Bharati (with Mira T. Sundara Rajan) 552 Writing after Rushdie (with Shilpi Suneja) The music in this episode is by Gabriel Ruiz-Bernal. Learn more at gabrielruizbernal.com.Help support the show at patreon.com/literature or historyofliterature.com/donate. The History of Literature Podcast is a member of Lit Hub Radio and the Podglomerate Network. Learn more at thepodglomerate.com/historyofliterature. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dorian Lynskey, author of 'Everything Must Go,' dives into the cultural significance of apocalyptic literature and films, exploring humanity's obsession with doomsday prophecies. He discusses the evolution of these narratives from divine intervention to human responsibility and highlights how fears of catastrophe reflect contemporary anxieties. Additionally, Charles Baxter shares his choice for the last book he would ever read, tying in humor amidst existential themes. Together, they illuminate how storytelling can help us confront our fears.

Alan Lightman, a physicist with a Ph.D. from Cal Tech and a celebrated novelist, shares his unique perspective on the intersection of science and literature. He discusses his latest work, 'The Miraculous from the Material,' exploring the awe-inspiring wonders of nature from atoms to rainbows, and how this scientific insight amplifies our appreciation for beauty. Reflecting on his choice for the last book he would read, Lightman delves into themes of life, death, and the connection between storytelling and our understanding of the world.