Why Poetry Belongs in Classical Education Curriculum

Why Poetry Belongs in Classical Education Curriculum

Author: The Memoria Press Podcast Network October 8, 2025 Duration: 42:03
What does poetry offer that prose cannot? In this week’s Classical Et Cetera, we explore how verse builds literacy, memory, and a love of language. Discover how rhythm, structure, and beauty shape the mind and soul, and why poetry remains essential for both personal enrichment and classical education.   *What We're Reading* from This Episode:  Gerard Manley Hopkins Poetry (Kathy) _Notes from Underground_—Fyodor Dostoevsky (Kathy) _Anne of Green Gables_—L.M. Montgomery (Tanya) _The Two Gentlemen of Verona_—William Shakespeare (Tanya) _Truth Matters_—Robert P. George & Cornel West (Tanya) _The Idiot_—Fyodor Dostoevsky (Martin) _The Glass Bead Game_—Hermann Hesse (Martin)

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
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 Are these methods outdated, or are they e…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…