Everyone You Know Is a Character in Shakespeare

Everyone You Know Is a Character in Shakespeare

Author: The Memoria Press Podcast Network September 16, 2026 Duration: 48:14
Why do we spend so much time on William Shakespeare, and is he still worth it? This _Classical Et Cetera_ talks about why Shakespeare remains everywhere, even in a culture that rarely reads him. From his mastery of human nature to Harold Bloom's idea that Shakespeare "invented the human," this conversation makes the case for reading him well. Start where it works for you, and remember that reading just one play is a real accomplishment! Browse our Shakespeare Collection: https://www.memoriapress.com/shakespeare/?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=237   *What We're Reading* from This Episode:  "The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency" Alexander McCall Smith (Martin) "Wisdom and Innocence" Joseph Pearce (Martin) "Christy" Catherine Marshall (Tanya) "But For The Grace" Peter Grainger (Tanya) "Girl With a Pearl Earring" Tracy Chevalier (Tanya) "Growth of the Soil" Knut Hamsun (Paul) "The Trumpet of the Swan" E. B. White (Paul) "Winnie-the-Pooh" A. A. Milne (Jeremy) "The Abolition of Man" C. S. Lewis (Jeremy)

Classical Et Cetera from The Memoria Press Podcast Network is a series of conversations that delve into the heart of a classical education, exploring its principles, practices, and enduring relevance. This isn't just a theoretical discussion; it's a practical guide built from the experiences of those actively shaping this educational landscape. Each episode features educators in the classroom, authors who craft the curricula, publishers who bring these resources to life, and the visionaries who see the bigger picture. Together, they unpack the ideas, challenges, and successes inherent in teaching and learning with a classical lens. You'll hear specific examples, thoughtful debates on methodology, and reflections on how ancient wisdom applies to modern students. The dialogue in this podcast naturally extends beyond mere textbooks to consider the broader cultivation of intellect and character. Whether you're a seasoned teacher, a homeschooling parent, or simply curious about educational philosophy, these discussions offer grounded insights and actionable wisdom. Tune in for an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at the ongoing work of building a meaningful education, one thoughtful conversation at a time.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Classical Et Cetera
Podcast Episodes
Are Homeschoolers Socialized Enough? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:45
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 i…
Is Classical Education Too Hard? Too Rigid? Too Old-Fashioned? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:36
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 e…
What Actually Makes an Education “Classical”? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:05
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 th…
Why Read Roman Literature? Essential Works from Empire to Augustine [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:43
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, philosoph…
Classical Et Cetera LIVE from the Great Homeschool Convention! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:43
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…
The Case for Reading Widely | Balance Your Book Diet [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:31
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…
How to Introduce Books to Toddlers and Build Lifelong Readers [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:52
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 discus…
They Abridged THAT Classic Book? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:52
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…
The Worst Books We’ve Ever Read [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 48:53
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?…
Why Read Ancient Greek Literature? Essential Books to Start With [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 51:40
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…