The Classic English Literature Podcast

Where rhyme gets its reason!In a historical survey of English literature, I take a personal and philosophical approach to the major texts of the tradition in order to not only situate the poems, prose, and plays in their own contexts, but also to show their relevance to our own. This show is for the general listener: as a teacher of high school literature and philosophy, I am less than a scholar but more than a buff. I hope to edify and entertain!

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Episodes

Wherefore Beowulf?

Send us a text In this episode, we talk about the first major text in English: the epic Beowulf . In addition to summarizing the tale, we'll also ask why a Christian monk would feel the need to preserve an oral pagan legend by transcribing it: why does Beowulf even exist? Music: "Rejoice" (G.F. Handel) perf. Advent Chamber Orchestra, "Dies Irae" perf. Dee Yan Key; "Mournful Violin" perf. Cottager Support the show Please like, subscribe, and rate the podcast on Apple, Spotify, YouTube Music, or w...

Aug 12, 2022•33 min•Season 1Ep. 4

Why Think About Literature?

Send us a text Our first Subcast episode! I know it seems early, but I thought it important to put this out there as soon as possible: sort of justify the podcast's existence. . . . Students often ask me: "Why do we have to learn this stuff?" It's a fair question. To many, it seems useless: reading novels and poetry won't help you be a better engineer or physician's assistant, won't keep you fit -- in fact, one can lead a beautiful life and never have read a sonnet. So why study it? Oscar Wilde ...

Aug 04, 2022•14 min•Season 1Ep. 3

The Coming of the Anglo-Saxons

Send us a text In this episode, we get a little history about how Germanic peoples from northern Europe came to settle what is now Britain over 1500 years ago. One of these tribes, the Angles, gave their name to this land ( Anglelonde = England) and to the language ( Anglisch = English). We'll meet the first English historian, the first English poet, and we'll learn about some of the main characteristics of Old English language and poetry! Music: "Rejoice" performed by The Advent Chamber Orchest...

Jul 29, 2022•30 min•Season 1Ep. 2

Hello and Welcome!

Send us a text This introductory episode outlines my vision for a podcast that takes a historical perspective on English literature to show how it can give meaning to our everyday lives! Support the show Please like, subscribe, and rate the podcast on Apple, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you listen. Thank you! Email: [email protected] Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, Bluesky, and YouTube. If you enjoy the show, please consider supporting it with a small donation. Click th...

Jul 25, 2022•12 min•Season 1Ep. 1

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