The History of Literature

Award-winning novelist Charles Baxter dives into the art of writing a comic novel, discussing his new book that weaves humor with a commentary on troubled America. The conversation also touches on the influence of Midwestern literature and ethical quandaries in tech-driven narratives. Bill Eville shares the last book he’d choose to read, revealing how personal stories shape literary connections. The episode humorously critiques modern masculinity and explores literature’s quiet moments, offering a rich tapestry of storytelling insights.

Douglas Burton, a novelist and storyteller, discusses his groundbreaking book, The Heroine's Labyrinth, which redefines female hero narratives. He dives into Joseph Campbell's concept of the hero's journey, highlighting its limitations for women. Burton argues for a new storytelling paradigm that captures the unique challenges heroines face, contrasting it with traditional male arcs. They also explore how societal norms shape female protagonists' adventures and emphasize the importance of gender-neutral storytelling in contemporary literature.

Joseph Luzzi, a Professor of Literature at Bard College and author on Dante, dives deep into Dante's Divine Comedy. He shares its breathtaking themes of redemption and morality through personal anecdotes and humor. Luzzi explores Dante's unique choice of the Tuscan dialect and how his political views shaped his literary legacy. The conversation also touches on Dante’s complex characters, the interplay of love and punishment, and how these ideas resonate in modern culture. Prepare for a captivating journey through literature’s timeless relevance!

Collin Jennings, a former assistant professor and author, shares insights on how computational methods illuminate 18th-century literature. He highlights the role of print technology in transforming literary engagement and the innovative narrative structures of that era. Mike Palindrome passionately discusses Hemingway's 'A Moveable Feast,' exploring its reflections on Parisian life and literary camaraderie. Finally, David L. Cooper considers the legacy of forgery in literature, sharing his choice for his last book, which intertwines personal and national narratives.

Join Alex Vernon, a Hemingway expert and author, and Sandra Spanier, General Editor of Hemingway's Letters, as they dive into the complexities of 'For Whom the Bell Tolls.' They unpack the evolving perceptions of Hemingway's work, focusing on themes of heroism and sacrifice through Robert Jordan’s journey in the Spanish Civil War. The conversation reveals how historical context enriches understanding, and they touch on the profound impact of Hemingway's prose over the decades. Plus, discover Spanier's choice for her last literary read!

Delve into the lives of the Brontë sisters, whose tragic experiences inspired groundbreaking literature. Discover how the haunting beauty of the Yorkshire moors shaped their narratives. Explore the struggle for creativity amidst the challenges of child labor during the industrial revolution. Uncover the personal hardships that influenced Charlotte's journey to publish 'Jane Eyre' and the powerful themes in their works. Reflect on their enduring legacy and the impact of their tumultuous lives on English literature.

When he undertook his research on Harriet Jacobs and her brother John Swanson Jacobs, scholar Jonathan D.S. Schroeder wasn't expecting to find John's long lost autobiography. But there it was, buried in the archives of an Australian newspaper. Unknown for one hundred and sixty-nine years, the narrative bursts with fire and fury, filled with the energy (and intellectual freedom) of an ex-slave and ex-American writing from outside the United States. In this episode, Jacke talks to Jonathan about what it was like to make this incredible discovery - and what the narrative teaches us about the world of nineteenth-century literature and life. Book link:The United States Governed by Six Hundred Thousand Despots: A True Story of Slavery; A Rediscovered Narrative, with a Full Biography (by John Swanson Jacobs (Author) and Jonathan D.S. Schroeder (Editor))Additional listening suggestions: 300 Frederick Douglass 311 Frederick Douglass Learns to Read 485 Reading Pleasures: Everyday Black Living in Early America (with Dr Tara Bynum)  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

Explore the life and groundbreaking works of Richard Wright, one of the first Black American writers to achieve independence through literature. Discover his tumultuous upbringing in poverty-stricken Mississippi and the profound impact of his seminal novel, 'Native Son,' which tackles systemic racism and psychological turmoil. Hear about his influential friendship with James Baldwin and the ongoing significance of Wright's narratives in revealing the realities of race and identity in America.

Steven Belletto, an English professor and editor of The Cambridge Companion to Jack Kerouac, delves into Kerouac's enduring legacy, particularly through his seminal work 'On the Road.' They discuss how Kerouac's ideas of freedom and self-exploration resonate with today's readers. The conversation also touches on the criticisms of his style, contrasting literary elite views with his appeal among the public. Belletto highlights the complex interplay of Kerouac's Catholic roots and Buddhist beliefs, enriching our understanding of his intricate identity.

Unveil the mystery of Aesop, from a slave to a celebrated storyteller, as his fables reveal timeless moral lessons. Discover the connection between his tales and classic children's stories, and delve into the nuances of translating their charm. Explore the fables' deep, adult themes, serving as political commentary and societal critique. Transition to Tove Jansson's imaginative world, contemplating the idea of a 'last book' and the uniqueness of animal perspectives in storytelling.