The History of Literature

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.

Radha Vatsal, a novelist celebrated for the Kitty Weeks series, shares insights from her gripping new novel, No. 10 Doyers Street, where an Indian journalist uncovers crime in 1907 Chinatown. She discusses the struggles immigrant women faced in journalism, weaving personal narratives with historical context. Tali Rosenblatt-Cohen, a writer and podcaster, reflects on her experience hosting The Five Books, emphasizing how literature shapes Jewish identity and personal growth, and the importance of diverse representation in storytelling.

In this engaging discussion, Carl Rollyson, a noted biographer of Sylvia Plath, delves into the many influences that shaped her life before her infamous relationship with Ted Hughes. He highlights her passion for literature and film, exploring how these experiences enriched her creative spirit. The conversation also critiques the common narratives surrounding her complex legacy, while Cheryl Hopson shares her poignant choice for the last book she'd read, intertwining themes of love, loss, and family in literature.

Dive into the captivating tale of Samuel Taylor Coleridge, who lost his poetic vision of Xanadu thanks to an unexpected visitor from Porlock. Explore the mysteries surrounding this infamous interruption and its impact on Coleridge's creativity. Discover the poet's struggles with opium, the delicate balance of inspiration versus distraction, and the unique relationship he shared with fellow poet Wordsworth. Reflect on how these themes resonate in the creative process today, alongside a whimsical look at Porlock's literary connections.