Classical Wisdom Speaks

Sometimes stories have a life of their own... literally.Today Anya is joined by Joel Christensen to discuss how mythology acts as a living being in itself. Discover how stories shape the world around us... and why the movie versions never feel the same as the books.Joel Christensen is Professor in the Department of Classical and Early Mediterranean Studies at Brandeis University. He is the author of many books, including Storylife: On Epic, Narrative, and Living Things.You can buy Storylife here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0300269234This discussion is brought to you by Classical Wisdom, a site dedicated to bringing ancient wisdom to modern minds. To learn more about Classical Wisdom and sign up for our free newsletter, go to: https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

Claire Bubb, an Assistant Professor at NYU and author of How to Eat Ancient Wisdom for Modern Readers, delves into ancient dietary practices. She explores how Greeks and Romans meticulously crafted their diets, linking food choices to health. Discover the significance of starting meals with sharp foods and ending with sweets, as well as the importance of seasonal eating. Bubb highlights the fascinating interplay of culture, medical opinions, and personal health, offering timeless insights for modern living.

In this captivating discussion, Jennifer T. Roberts, a Professor of Classics and History, explores the multifaceted nature of ancient Greek culture. She reveals how Greeks embodied contradictions, from the contrasting ideals of Spartan valor and Sappho's views on beauty. Roberts delves into the geographical diversity of Greek communities and the intellectual debates that shaped their society. Additionally, she discusses the complexities of Athenian democracy and the central role of competition in Greek life, highlighting the enduring relevance of their shared values.

Centaurs, Snake-kings, Griffins, and Gorgons... ancient Greek mythology is filled with haunting hybrids. But how did these horrific monsters evolve? What is their purpose? And most intriguing of all...what do they reveal about ancient Greek history?Featuring Jeremy McInerney, Professor of Classical Studies at the University of Pennsylvania and author of Centaurs and Snake-Kings: Hybrids and the Greek Imagination.Hosted by Anya Leonard of Classical Wisdom. To learn more about Classical Wisdom, and sign up for our free newsletter, please go to https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

Join award-winning author Stephen Dando-Collins as he delves into the fierce rivalry between Julius Caesar and Pompey. Discover how these powerful figures transformed from allies to enemies, shaping the fate of the Roman Republic. Explore the gambling culture that mirrored their political games, the complexities of ancient power struggles, and Pompey's dramatic downfall. Dando-Collins also connects lessons from Rome's past to modern politics, offering a thought-provoking look at ambition and governance throughout history.

Lorraine Besser, a philosophy professor at Middlebury College and author of The Art of the Interesting, explores timeless insights from Aristotle on living well. She discusses how Aristotle's ideas on virtue and eudaimonia influence our modern views on happiness. Delving into 'psychological richness,' Besser emphasizes the value of novel experiences for personal growth. She encourages listeners to find depth in the mundane, transforming everyday moments into opportunities for fulfillment, and highlights the balance between focus and embracing novelty for a richer life.

Join award-winning novelist Costanza Casati, author of Clytemnestra and Babylonia, as she revives the story of Semiramis, the powerful queen of ancient Assyria. Discover why her legacy has faded, despite her ambition rivaling that of Cleopatra. The conversation delves into the duality of Assyrian culture—both innovative and brutal. Casati highlights the importance of resurrecting influential women from history and connects ancient themes to modern narratives, creating a compelling bridge between the past and present.

In a thought-provoking discussion, British philosopher Christopher Gill, an Emeritus Professor at the University of Exeter, delves into the Stoic understanding of happiness. He reveals that true happiness stems from living virtuously and aligning with nature, using the analogy of a flourishing oak tree. Gill also explores the interplay of fate and personal agency, addressing common misconceptions about Stoicism. The conversation highlights its relevance to modern ethics, including topics like environmentalism and the revival of ancient philosophical dialogues through innovative technologies.

Jeffery Rosen, a prominent American legal scholar and president of the National Constitution Center, discusses the deep influence of classical philosophy on America’s Founding Fathers. He highlights how Aristotle and Cicero shaped their ideals of virtue and happiness. The conversation emphasizes the importance of moral philosophy and deep reading for personal growth. Rosen also explores how accessible translations of classical texts can enhance understanding and urges listeners to engage with the Constitution’s principles for a thriving future.

Myke Cole, a fire rescue responder and freelance historian, teams up with Michael Livingston, a distinguished professor and award-winning military historian. They delve into the iconic Battle of Thermopylae, unraveling the myths and realities surrounding this pivotal moment in history. The conversation explores the strategic complexities and geographical significance of the battlefield, while challenging traditional narratives of the famed '300.' They also discuss the chaotic nature of warfare, highlighting the impact of technological advancements and the interplay between history and storytelling.