Should We Still Read Ancient Texts? | Classical Education Explained

Should We Still Read Ancient Texts? | Classical Education Explained

Author: The Memoria Press Podcast Network October 23, 2024 Duration: 34:58
As a publisher in the world of classical education, Memoria Press is often asked: Why do you write new books and guides rather than directly utilizing ancient sources? This is an important question we aim to answer with this week's Classical Et Cetera. Among the many misconceptions about classical education, it’s essential to discuss the limitations of using ancient texts in a typical classroom. Drawing on years of experience in curriculum development, we will explore important pedagogical choices related to this dilemma and highlight how we can honor the wisdom of the past while addressing contemporary needs. Learn more about the essentials of our curriculum right here: https://www.memoriapress.com/articles/memoria-press-curriculum/?utm_source=YouTube&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=142   What We're Reading from This Episode: Portrait of a Lady —Henry James (Martin) The Seven Liberal Arts: A Study of Medieval Culture —Paul Abelson (Martin) The Turn of the Screw —Henry James (Tanya & Paul) Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy —(Tanya) Remembering Laughter —Wallace Stegner (Paul)

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: 100

Classical Et Cetera
Podcast Episodes
How to Approach Nudity in Classical Art with Students [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:38
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 classic…
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…