Classical Et Cetera

The Best Resources for Classical Education: Journals, Books & More 10.06.2026 35мин

What are the most essential resources for classical education, and where do you even begin? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, Jessica, Paul, Tanya, and Martin share the books, journals, and periodicals that have most shaped their thinking on classical education. From Climbing Parnassus and G.K. Chesterton's Orthodoxy to the Wall Street Journal's review section, this is the list that we keep coming back to!Resources mentioned in this episode:• Climbing Parnassus - Tracy Lee Simmons• The Schools We Need and Why We Don't Have Them - E.D. Hirsch• Orthodoxy - G.K. Chesterton• In Defense of Classical Education - Livingston• Seven Myths About Education - Daisy Christodoulou• Great Ideas from the Great Books - Mortimer Adler• Student's Guide series - Intercollegiate Studies Institute• Modern Age, The New Criterion, First Things magazines• Simply Classical - Cheryl Swope• The Classical Teacher magazine (free subscription on memoriapress.com)Have a question for the podcast? Email us at podcast@memoriapress.com

Do Comprehension Questions Kill the Joy of Reading? | Classical Et Cetera Mailbag 03.06.2026 51мин

It's another Mailbag episode of Classical Et Cetera! This week the Core Four tackles your questions on several topics, including whether comprehension questions steal the joy of reading, how to school multiple children together as a family, and whether your kids even need to know why they're learning Latin. We also dig into the difference between the classical virtues and the fruits of the Spirit, and what to do with the Lord's name in vain when it shows up in literature. Send us your questions at podcast@memoriapress.com. *What We're Reading* from This Episode: "After Midnight" Daphne Du Maurier (Paul) "Brideshead Revisited" Evelyn Waugh (Tanya) "Ironwood" Michael Connelly (Martin) "The Marriage Portrait" Maggie O'Farrell (Jessica) "Cloud Cuckoo Land" Anthony Doerr (Jessica)

How to Approach Nudity in Classical Art with Students 27.05.2026 43мин

In this episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ the team discusses how classical educators and parents should approach nudity in classical art with students. What is the difference between beauty and sensuality? Why did classical artists portray the human form the way they did? And how can teachers guide students toward wisdom, dignity, and discernment when studying great works of art? For those interested, here is Kyle Janke’s extended preface on nudity in classical art from _A Classical History of Art_ . In it, he explains the distinction between classical and modern views of the human body, beauty, and the purpose of art: https://www.memoriapress.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/A-Classical-History-of-Art-Preface.pdf/?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=222 Learn more about Kyle Janke’s _A Classical History of Art_ course here:https://www.memoriapress.com/curriculum/art-and-music/a-classical-history-of-art-set/?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=222 What We're Reading from This Episode: The Burnout Generation —Anne Helen Petersen (Paul) Galahad and the Grail —Malcolm Guite (Kyle) Lila —Marilynne Robinson (Kyle) This Is Happiness —Niall Williams (Tanya) The Fountains of Silence —Ruta Sepetys (Jessica) The Odyssey —Homer (Jessica)

Are Homeschoolers Socialized Enough? 20.05.2026 43мин

In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, we tackle one of the most common objections to homeschooling: socialization. Are homeschoolers actually missing out socially? Do children really need classrooms and constant peer interaction to grow into mature, capable adults? We discuss the fears many parents face, the assumptions behind modern schooling, and what truly forms children. From co-ops and friendships to peer culture and family life, we explore how homeschooling shapes social development and why “socialization” may not mean what most people think it does. Join us for a thoughtful conversation on homeschooling, community, and raising well-formed children. *What We're Reading* from This Episode: "Time of the Child" Niall Williams (Kathy) "The Dean's Watch" Elizabeth Goudge (Kathy) "This is Happiness" Niall Williams (Tanya) "The Labours of Hercules" Agatha Christie (Tanya) "The Violent Bear It Away" Flannery O'Connor (Paul)

Is Classical Education Too Hard? Too Rigid? Too Old-Fashioned? 13.05.2026 41мин

In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, we discuss the “how” behind classical education. Why do we emphasize memorization, repetition, teacher-led classrooms, and rigorous books? Are these methods outdated, or are they essential to meaningful learning? We explore the purpose behind what we do, respond to common criticisms, and discuss how structure, discussion, discipline, and intellectual formation work together to shape not just knowledgeable students, but thoughtful and virtuous human beings.

What Actually Makes an Education “Classical”? 06.05.2026 45мин

In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, we ask a foundational question: What actually makes an education “classical”? Is classical education simply a collection of methods and old books, or are there essential pillars that cannot be removed? The Core Four discuss Latin, literature, moral formation, the Western tradition, and why classical education is more than a modern curriculum with classical decorations added on. Join us as we explore what belongs at the center of a truly classical education. *What We're Reading* from This Episode: "Galahad and the Grail" Malcom Guite (Martin) "The Last of the Mohicans" James Fenimore Cooper (Martin) "Smiling Through the Cultural Catastrophe" Jeffery Hart (Martin) "The Sea Hawk" Rafael Sabatini (Paul) "Mary Poppins" Pamela Lyndon Travers (Paul) "The Confederacy of Dunces" John Kennedy Toole (Paul) "A Tale of Two Cities" Charles Dickens (Tanya) "Fountains of Silence" Ruta Sepetys (Jessica)

Why Read Roman Literature? Essential Works from Empire to Augustine 29.04.2026 43мин

In this episode of Classical Et Cetera we continue our series on the best books of each era by turning from ancient Greece to ancient Rome. From Virgil’s Aeneid and Cicero’s orations to Roman historians, poets, philosophers, and early Christian writers, we consider the works that reveal Rome’s ideals of order, duty, virtue, and piety—and the world-changing arrival of Christianity. Whether you’re new to Roman literature or looking to revisit the classics, this conversation offers guidance on what to read, why it matters, and how these books help us understand the foundations of Western civilization. Join us as we explore the essential works of ancient Rome, from empire to Augustine, and consider where to begin your reading. *What We're Reading* from This Episode: "Mary Poppins" Pamela Lyndon Travers (Paul) "The Confederacy of Dunces" John Kennedy Toole (Paul) "84, Charing Cross Road" Helene Hanff (Jessica) "The Sea Hawk" Rafael Sabatini (Tanya) "The Little Colonel Stories" Annie Fellows Johnston (Tanya) "Educational Wastelands" Arthur E. Bestor (Martin) *Reading List for Ancient Rome* Virgil- Aeneid- Other poetry Cicero- Catilinarian Orations- The Republic- The Laws- On Duties / On Obligations- Pro Archia Poeta_ / _For Archias the Poet Lucretius- De rerum natura_ / _On the Nature of Things Marcus Aurelius- Meditations Julius Caesar- Gallic Wars Roman Historians- Works by Livy- Works by Tacitus- Works by Suetonius- Plutarch - _Parallel Lives Roman Poetry- Works by Ovid- Works by Horace- Other poetry by Virgil Early Christian Writings of the Roman Era- Didache- Writings by Clement of Rome- Writings by Ignatius of Antioch- Writings by Polycarp- Writings by Justin Martyr- Writings by Irenaeus- Writings by Tertullian- Writings by Origen- Writings by Eusebius Augustine- Confessions- On Catechizing the Uninstructed- City of God

Classical Et Cetera LIVE from the Great Homeschool Convention! 22.04.2026 49мин

This week’s Classical Et Cetera is a special one. We recorded this episode live at the 2026 Great Homeschool Convention in Cincinnati, Ohio! You’ll find all the familiar elements—what we’re reading and listener questions—along with something new: questions taken directly from the convention floor. From classical education to art, math, and more, this is a wide-ranging, unscripted conversation with listeners just like you. *What We're Reading* from This Episode: "Mary Poppins" Pamela Lyndon Travers (Paul) "The Sea Hawk" Rafael Sabatini (Tanya & Paul) "The Collected Bowdrie Dramatizations" Louis L'Amour (Martin) "Coal Camp Girl" Lois Lenski (Martin) "The Women" Kristin Hannah (Jessica)

The Case for Reading Widely | Balance Your Book Diet 15.04.2026 38мин

In this episode of Classical Et Cetera we consider what it means to read well. Is it enough to simply read what we enjoy, or should we aim for something more? We discuss the idea of a “reading diet” and the importance of variety—balancing fiction, philosophy, theology, and more. Along the way, we reflect on how different kinds of books shape us, and why a broader reading life can deepen both understanding and enjoyment. Reading widely isn’t a rule, but it may be the key to a richer intellectual life. *What We're Reading* from This Episode: "The Confederacy of Dunces" John Kennedy Toole (Paul) "Why Literature Still Matters" Jason Baxter (Martin) "Christian Paideia" Brian Welter (Martin) "The Teach Like a Champion Guide to the Science of Reading" Doug Lemov (Martin) "Theo of Golden" Allen Levi (Tanya) "Mouse House" Rumer Godden (Tanya) "Boxcar Children" Gertrude Chandler Warner (Tanya) "The Sea Hawk" Rafael Sabatini (Tanya) "The Correspondent" Virginia Evans (Jessica)

How to Introduce Books to Toddlers and Build Lifelong Readers 08.04.2026 34мин

In this episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ we explore how reading with your child should grow over time, from first books to the great classics. What should you read at each stage? When do things begin to change? We discuss the role of read-alouds, building habits, and why reading together remains essential long after a child learns to read. *What We're Reading* from This Episode: "The Shadows of Men" Abir Mukherjee (Martin) "The Other Bennet Sister" Janice Hadlow (Tanya) "Remarkably Bright Creatures" Shelby Van Pelt (Jessica) "The Fountains of Silence" Ruta Sepetys (Jessica) "The Correspondent" Virginia Evans (Jessica) "The Old Man in the Corner" Emmuska Orczy (Paul)

They Abridged THAT Classic Book? 01.04.2026 42мин

In this episode of Classical Et Cetera we tackle a common question: should students read abridged classics? Are they helpful, or do they take away from the original work? From children’s retellings to difficult texts, we explore when abridged books can serve a purpose and when they should be set aside. The answer isn’t simple, but one principle remains: the original always matters. What We're Reading from This Episode:"Momo" Michael Ende (Martin)"The Black Wolf" Louise Penny (Tanya)"He Leadeth Me" Walter Ciszek (Tanya)"The Christian Idea, Volume 1" W. Brian Welter (Paul)

The Worst Books We’ve Ever Read 25.03.2026 48мин

In this episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ we take on a risky topic: the worst books we’ve ever read. From beloved classics to modern favorites, we ask what truly makes a book bad. Is it poor writing, or something deeper? Can a beautifully written book still lead readers astray? Along the way, we discuss children’s literature, modern novels, and the importance of discernment in reading. Not every popular book is worth your time, and some may be worth avoiding altogether. *What We're Reading* from This Episode: "The Black Wolf" Louise Penny (Tanya) "He Leadeth Me" Walter Ciszek (Tanya) "Mo Mo" Michael Ende (Martin) "Remarkably Bright Creatures" Shelby Van Pelt (Jessica)

Why Read Ancient Greek Literature? Essential Books to Start With 18.03.2026 51мин

In this episode of Classical Et Cetera we begin a new series on the best books of each era by turning to ancient Greece! From Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey to the tragedies and philosophers, we explore the foundational works that shaped Western thought. Whether you’re new to the Greeks or looking to revisit them, this conversation offers guidance on what to read and why it matters. Join us as we consider the essential authors, enduring ideas, and lasting influence of ancient Greek literature—and where to begin your reading Reading List for Ancient Greece Homer — Iliad, OdysseyTragedy — Aeschylus, Sophocles, EuripidesPhilosophy — Plato (Apology), AristotleHistory — Herodotus, Thucydides *What We're Reading* from This Episode: "Galahad and the Grail" Malcom Guite (Tanya) "With God in Russia" Walter Ciszek (Tanya) "Be Frank With Me" Julia Claiborne Johnson (Jessica) "The Ministry of Fear" Graham Greene (Paul) Various Hesiod writings (Alex)

Do Learning Styles Actually Exist? Teaching Students with Different Personalities 11.03.2026 52мин

How should parents and teachers respond when children learn differently? Should the curriculum change for each child, or should the child be formed by the curriculum? In this episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ we discuss teaching children with different personalities and temperaments, and why the modern idea of “learning styles” may not be the right place to begin. We explore the difference between temperament and aptitude, how to maintain consistent academic standards, and practical ways parents can help very different children succeed within the same curriculum. Along the way, we offer encouragement for homeschool families navigating daily challenges while keeping the long view of education in mind.

Christian Nonfiction Books for Classical Readers 04.03.2026 49мин

In this episode of Classical Et Cetera we turn from fiction to Christian nonfiction books that have shaped our faith. From _Mere Christianity_ and Augustine’s _Confessions_ to biographies, letters, and works on prayer and discernment, we share the books that have strengthened, challenged, and sustained us. This isn’t a canon, but rather an honest conversation about the titles we return to and why they matter for classical Christian readers. *What We're Reading* from This Episode: "Galahad and the Grail" Malcom Guite (Leigh & Tanya) "Sense and Sensibility" Jane Austin (Tanya) "With God in Russia" Walter Ciszek (Tanya) "A Tale of Two Cities" Charles Dickens (Tanya) "No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency" Alexander McCall (Paul) "A Confederacy of Dunces" John Kennedy Toole (Paul)

Home Library Ideas: Organizing, Collecting, and Actually Using Your Books 25.02.2026 44мин

In this episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ we talk about home libraries—what they are, how they grow, and why they matter. From organizing (or not organizing) shelves to collecting meaningful editions, this conversation explores how the books in our homes reflect the life of the mind. We discuss lending versus hoarding, building a collection that is actually used, and why a home library is more than bookshelves—it’s a culture of reading lived out in the home. *What We're Reading* from This Episode: "Christianity & Culture" T.S. Eliot (Martin) "Sense and Sensibility" Jane Austin (Tanya) "The Digital Delusion" Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath (Tanya) "Galahad and the Grail" Malcom Guite (Tanya) "Olav Audunssøn" Sigrid Undset (Kathy) "Marce Catlett" Wendell Berry (Paul) "No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency" Alexander McCall (Paul) "Climbing Parnassus" Tracy Lee Simmons (Paul)

Why Imagination Matters in Classical Education 18.02.2026 44мин

In this episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ we explore the idea of "poetic knowledge"—a way of knowing that begins with experience and imagination before moving to analysis. Has modern education become too abstract, too quickly? We discuss the role of wonder in learning, the proper order of education, and why children need to encounter reality as a whole before breaking it into parts. From literature and discussion to classroom practice, this conversation considers what it means to begin learning well. *What We're Reading* from This Episode: "Paradise Lost" John Milton (Ian) "The Big Sleep" Raymond Chandler (Martin) "Climbing Parnassus" Tracy Lee Simmons (Paul) "The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency" Alexander McCall Smith (Paul)

Classroom Technology Isn’t Helping Students Learn 11.02.2026 56мин

What happens when screens replace books and classroom technology replaces thinking? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera we examine research showing how screens, scrolling text, and digital note-taking undermine attention, memory, and deep learning. Drawing on neuroscience and classroom experience, we discuss why scrolling isn’t reading, why speed and engagement aren’t the same as understanding, and why technology-heavy classrooms often produce less learning, not more. The Digital Delusion by Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath is the book that inspired this episode's conversation. *What We're Reading* from This Episode: "Marce Catlett" Wendell Berry (Tanya & Paul) "What Happened to You?" Bruce D. Perry & Oprah Winfrey (Paul) "The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency" Alexander McCall Smith (Martin)

Should Video Games Have a Place in Your Homeschool? | Classical Et Cetera Mailbag 04.02.2026 40мин

In this mailbag episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ we respond to listener questions on a range of parenting and homeschooling topics. We talk about limiting video games, responding to boredom in children, and how much attention homeschool parents should give to modern pop culture versus older stories, books, and models. Drawing on principles of classical education, we explore how attention, imagination, and formation shape a child’s learning. Join the conversation as we think through these questions together! *What We're Reading* from This Episode: Stoner" John Williams (Paul) Against the Machine" Paul Kingsnorth (Tanya) North and South" Elizabeth Gaskell (Tanya) Marce Catlett" Wendell Berry (Tanya) Sense and Sensibility" Jane Austen (Tanya) By Her Own Design" Piper Huguley (Jessica)

Reading Goals 2026 | How to Read More Books Without Burnout 28.01.2026 42мин

How should adults think about reading goals for the coming year—and how do you read more books without letting reading become a burden? In this episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ we talk about reading goals for 2026 and what it takes to build a reading life that lasts. Whether you’re an avid reader, returning after a long break, or feeling overwhelmed by unfinished books, this conversation explores better ways to read with intention and balance. We discuss fiction and nonfiction, reading for work versus pleasure, and why shared reading and conversation matter so much. Comment your reading list for 2026! Book recommendations are always welcome. *Tanya's Stack of Books* Sense and Sensibility — Jane Austen The Sound of a Wild Snail Eating — Elisabeth Tova Bailey Absent in the Spring — Agatha Christie The Door — Magda Szabo Mystery and Manners — Flannery O'Connor The Headmaster — John McPhee Marce Catlett — Wendell Berry *Martin's Stack of Books* The Giver — Lois Lowry Booth Tarkington Biography Wonderworks — Angus Fletcher The Master and His Emissary — Iain McGilchrist Primal Intelligence — Angus Fletcher The Digital Delusion — Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath The Last of the Mohicans — James Fenimore Cooper Quo Vadis — Henryk Sienkiewicz Sense and Sensibility — Jane Austen The Jungle Book — Rudyard Kipling *Paul's Stack of Books* The Greek Way — Edith Hamilton The Biological Farmer — Gary F. Zimmer The Liturgy of the Land — Thomas D. Van Horn & Jason M. Craig Against the Machine — Paul Kingsnorth The Wild Orchid — Sigrid Undset The Southern Tradition at Bay — Richard M. Weaver The Ministry of Fear — Graham Greene *Jessica's Stack of Books* I Beheld the Mountains — Joseph Payne The Modern Proper — Holly Erickson & Natalie Mortimer Remarkably Bright Creatures — Shelby Van Pelt Little Women — Louisa May Alcott By Her Own Design — Piper Huguley