What books lit the spark for your love of classical education? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, our team shares the life-changing books that first inspired them—and the ones they keep coming back to. These aren’t just recommendations; they’re the stories behind the stories: the books that challenged, shaped, and sustained our passion for classical learning.

We explore early influences, perennial reads, and the moments when a single book opened up an entirely new way of seeing education, virtue, and the human experience. Whether you're deep into classical education or just beginning your journey, this conversation will introduce you to powerful titles that have stood the test of time.

*What We're Reading* from This Episode: 

_Murder Must Advertise_—Dorothy L. Sayers (Tanya)  

_The Fortunes of Captain Blood_—Rafael Sabatini (Paul)

_The Crisis of Western Education_—Christopher Henry Dawson (Brian)

_How to Think like Shakespeare_—Scott Newstok (Brian)

How do adults actually find time to read in their daily lives? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, we dive into the real-life reading habits of classical educators and reading enthusiasts. From favorite routines and seasonal shifts to juggling multiple books and audiobooks, we share practical tips and honest reflections on making reading a sustainable part of adult life. Whether you’re looking to build a daily habit, figure out how to quit a book guilt-free, or find ways to track your reading progress, this episode has insights to inspire and encourage you.

*What We're Reading* from This Episode: 

_The Thread That Runs So True_—Jesse Stuart (Paul)  

_Moby Dick_—Herman Melville (Tanya)

_How to Think like Shakespeare_—Scott L. Newstok (Martin)

In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, we take a hard look at the role of technology in education—especially in classrooms committed to classical learning. Should students be using AI to write papers? Does screen time impact a child's ability to read, reason, and remember? And how do schools draw the line between helpful tools and harmful shortcuts?

From calculators to ChatGPT, the conversation covers the real effects of tech in schools, how it shapes student thinking, and why some classical educators are going “back to the books.” Whether you're a parent, teacher, or student, this episode challenges the idea that more technology always means better learning.

*What We're Reading* from This Episode: 

_The Snare_—Rafael Sabatini (Paul)  

_Moby Dick_—Herman Melville (Tanya)

_The Greeks and the Irrational_—E.R. Dodds (Martin)

_The Story of Themistocles_—Plutarch (Martin)

What does The Lord of the Rings teach us about self-denial? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, the team explores the virtue of temperance—what it is, why it matters, and how it's portrayed in literature. From Frodo’s resistance to the Ring to Peter Rabbit’s disobedience and Lassie’s heart-wrenching goodbye, we unpack how stories shape our understanding of restraint. Drawing from classical and Christian thought, we examine how temperance forms character and helps us live rightly ordered lives.

Modern education often promises freedom and creativity—but does it deliver? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, we take a closer look at why traditional classrooms, rooted in order, routine, and content, may serve students far better. The team unpacks how classical methods form not just minds, but souls—cultivating discipline, genuine learning, and even joy. Along the way, we discuss classroom structure, educational goals, and what students truly need to flourish. If you've ever questioned what education is for, this conversation offers clarity, insight, and a compelling case for going back to basics.

*What We're Reading* from This Episode: 

_American Pharoah_—Joe Drape (Paul)  

_The Schools We Need: And Why We Don't Have Them_—E.D. Hirsch Jr. (Martin)

_Die Trying_—Jack Reacher (Martin)

_Slaughterhouse-Five_—Kurt Vonnegut (Jeremy)  

What role should art play in a classical education—and how do we teach it well? In this episode, Kyle Janke, author of _A Classical History of Art_ , joins the team to explore the visual arts—sculpture, architecture, and painting—through the lens of Western art history. From the ancient world to the Renaissance, they trace a broad Western art history timeline and discuss how engaging with great art forms students' hearts as well as minds.

The conversation covers teaching art history, how to evaluate beauty, and why classical art still matters in a modern world. You'll hear reflections on personal encounters with art, the distinction between modern art vs. classical art, and practical tips for teachers and parents alike. Whether you're new to art history or a longtime fan of classical education, this episode will deepen your appreciation for the Good, the True, and the Beautiful.

*What We're Reading* from This Episode: 

_Mythology_—Edith Hamilton (Martin)

_Huckleberry Finn_—Mark Twain (Tanya)  

_James_—Percival Everett (Tanya)  

_The River War_—Winston S. Churchill (Kyle)  

_The Samurai_—Shusaku Endo (Kyle)  

What is classical education, really—and who gets to define it? In this special mailbag episode of Classical Et Cetera, we answer questions straight from our listeners. From homeschooling logistics to the purpose of teaching Greek mythology, from philosophy to pedagogy, no topic is off-limits! Whether you're deep in the trenches of classical education or just curious about the movement, join us as we tackle your burning questions.

*What We're Reading* from This Episode: 

_Passing the Torch_—Louis Marcus (Martin)

_Mythology_—Edith Hamilton (Martin)

_The Believers_—Janice Holt Giles— (Paul)  

_Mr. Midshipman Hornblower_—C.S. Forester— (Paul) 

_My Friends_—Fredrick Backman (Tanya)  

_Huckleberry Finn_—Mark Twain (Tanya) 

What do people _really_ mean when they say "classical," "traditional," or "progressive" education? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, we break down the most common terms in the world of classical education. From classical and neoclassical to traditional, vocational, and progressive models, we explore where these ideas come from, how they’re used today, and why definitions matter.

Whether you’re new to classical education or trying to explain it to others, this episode will help you clarify your terms, understand key differences, and see why classical education is more than just a label.

Get _A Defence of Classical Education_ from our website: https://www.memoriapress.com/curriculum/mp/a-defence-of-classical-education/?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=173

Read an article from Martin about the definition of Classical Education: https://www.memoriapress.com/articles/what-classical-education-1/?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=173

"Definitions" 

*What We're Reading* from This Episode: 

_Independent People_—Halldor Laxness— (Paul)  

_You Are What You Love_—James K.A. Smith (Tanya)  

_Mystery Novel_—Georgette Heyer (Tanya) 

_Passing the Torch_—Louis Marcus (Martin)

_The Medieval Mind of C.S. Lewis_—Jason M. Baxter (Martin) 

What is fortitude—and why does it matter in literature and life? In this episode, the we explore the virtue of fortitude through the lens of beloved characters like Jane Eyre, Bilbo Baggins, Aragorn, and Hester Prynne. From the quiet strength of the hobbits to the moral resolve of Jane Eyre, we unpack how true fortitude blends courage, patience, endurance, and moral integrity. If you’ve ever wondered what makes a character truly heroic, or how virtue is taught through great books, this episode is for you.

Want to read the books we discussed?

Explore moral courage with the Jane Eyre Set (9th Grade):

https://www.memoriapress.com/curriculum/literature-and-poetry/ninth/jane-eyre-set/?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=172

Discover quiet strength in the The Hobbit Set (6th Grade):

https://www.memoriapress.com/curriculum/literature-and-poetry/sixth/the-hobbit-set/?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=172

Witness unwavering strength in the face of shame and suffering in the The Scarlet Letter Set (9th Grade):

https://www.memoriapress.com/curriculum/literature-and-poetry/ninth/scarlet-letter-set/?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=172

How should we teach classical education? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, we dive into the real work of teaching—exploring what it means to guide students through knowledge, skills, and the deeper understanding of ideas and values. Drawing on insights from Mortimer Adler and others, we examine the Socratic method, the role of coaching in skill development, and why no single approach is enough. From didactic instruction to Socratic dialogue, we share a practical and philosophical framework for teaching that meets students where they are—and takes them further. Join the conversation about how classical teaching really works!

Read Martin's article _How to Teach_ right here: https://www.memoriapress.com/articles/how-to-teach-mortimer-adlers-three-pillars-revised/?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=171

And shop our complete line of Classical Christian Curriculum! https://www.memoriapress.com/curriculum/?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=171  

*What We're Reading* from This Episode: 

_The Name of the Rose_—Umberto Eco (Paul)

_No Country for Old Men_—Cormac McCarthy (Paul)

_The Island of Sea Women_—Lisa See (Jessica)   

_Bloomsbury Girls_—Natalie Jenner (Tanya) 

_Hamlet_—William Shakespeare (Martin)