After almost 3,000 years, the Iliad remains not only among the greatest adventure stories ever told, but also one of the most compelling meditations on the human condition ever written. In this episode, we discuss the story, themes, and historical context of Homer's Iliad. Jordan is joined by Oxford classicist Spencer Klavan (20:20) to discuss glory and honor, Homer's centrality to the Western canon, "the Homeric Question," diction and translation, and homosexuality in ancient Greek life. Gina Santiago stops by (1:18:15) to speak about free will and agency in Homeric epic. Also, Emory professor and author Mark Bauerlein (2:01:57) joins the show to talk about the current state of the humanities and literary criticism, moral relativism, Christianity, as well as his book, The Dumbest Generation. Additional topics include manliness and Homer's influence on the poet John Keats, among others.
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About the Show:The Western Canon is a monthly podcast dedicated to examining the timeless stories, ideas, and thinkers of the Western literary tradition. Working chronologically through "the great conversation of history," each episode focuses on a distinct canonical work, set of works, or intellectual period. Featuring lively summary, literary analysis, philosophical discussion, and guest commentary, the show also tackles social and political issues related to Western civilization, the modern university, free speech, well-being, and much more. Educate your mind and feed your soul by tuning in with Jordan Alexander Hill, Gina Santiago, and special guests on the 1st of every month! Archives
April 2021
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