Why Read Roman Literature? Essential Works from Empire to Augustine

Why Read Roman Literature? Essential Works from Empire to Augustine

Author: The Memoria Press Podcast Network April 29, 2026 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, philosophers, and early Christian writers, we consider the works that reveal Rome’s ideals of order, duty, virtue, and piety—and the world-changing arrival of Christianity.   Whether you’re new to Roman literature or looking to revisit the classics, this conversation offers guidance on what to read, why it matters, and how these books help us understand the foundations of Western civilization. Join us as we explore the essential works of ancient Rome, from empire to Augustine, and consider where to begin your reading. *What We're Reading* from This Episode:  "Mary Poppins" Pamela Lyndon Travers (Paul) "The Confederacy of Dunces" John Kennedy Toole (Paul) "84, Charing Cross Road" Helene Hanff (Jessica) "The Sea Hawk" Rafael Sabatini (Tanya) "The Little Colonel Stories" Annie Fellows Johnston (Tanya) "Educational Wastelands" Arthur E. Bestor (Martin)     *Reading List for Ancient Rome* Virgil- Aeneid- Other poetry   Cicero- Catilinarian Orations- The Republic- The Laws- On Duties / On Obligations- Pro Archia Poeta_ / _For Archias the Poet   Lucretius- De rerum natura_ / _On the Nature of Things   Marcus Aurelius- Meditations   Julius Caesar- Gallic Wars   Roman Historians- Works by Livy- Works by Tacitus- Works by Suetonius- Plutarch - _Parallel Lives   Roman Poetry- Works by Ovid- Works by Horace- Other poetry by Virgil   Early Christian Writings of the Roman Era- Didache- Writings by Clement of Rome- Writings by Ignatius of Antioch- Writings by Polycarp- Writings by Justin Martyr- Writings by Irenaeus- Writings by Tertullian- Writings by Origen- Writings by Eusebius   Augustine- Confessions- On Catechizing the Uninstructed- City of God

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
Teaching a Child to Read: Where to Start & What Works [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:59
Can your child sound out a word, or just guess from the picture? On this episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ , Jessica, Martin, and Paul are joined by returning guest Michelle Tefertiller to talk about teaching a child to r…
Everyone You Know Is a Character in Shakespeare [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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…
The Grandparent's Role in Homeschooling and Classical Education [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 47:04
Every child needs support in their educational upbringing, and grandparents are often the ones who provide it! In this Classical Et Cetera Michelle Tefertiller joins Paul, Tanya, and Martin to talk about the role grandpa…
What a Norwegian Brain Study Reveals About Handwriting [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:04
Why teach handwriting when everyone types? This Classical Et Cetera makes the case for penmanship in a classical education—and the reasons run deeper than nostalgia. Veteran first-grade teacher Julia Lasoi joins us to ex…
Music and Art Were Never Meant To Be Electives [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:43
How do you teach music from a classical perspective? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, Carol Reynolds joins us to make the case that music and the arts were never meant to be a "Friday elective." Whether you're a n…
Tolkien's Hidden Gem: Farmer Giles of Ham [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:41
Margin Notes is back! This week, the gang tackles J.R.R. Tolkien's short story, _Farmer Giles of Ham_ . A humble farmer accidentally scares off a giant, earns a legendary sword, and ends up face to face with a dragon—all…
Standardized Testing Is Broken. Here's the Fix. [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:50
What if standardized testing isn't the problem—but the tests themselves are? Jeremy Tate, founder of the Classic Learning Test (CLT), joins Classical Et Cetera to explain why the SAT and ACT keep getting easier, and how…
Macbeth Review - Beyond the Play | Discussions, Questions & Analysis [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:20
Margin Notes is back! This time, the gang tackles William Shakespeare's Macbeth. The conversation covers ambition and its consequences, the danger of consequentialism, and the age-old question of fate versus free will. I…