Christians Reading Classics

Nadya Williams explores the myth of Tantalus and its implications on the nature of success and temptation. She delves into how Tantalus' horrific actions reflect the seductive nature of victory and the potential consequences of testing divine powers. Nadya highlights the duality of success as both a reward and a burden, emphasizing the need for caution in the pursuit of greatness.

As we wrap up season 1 of Christians Reading Classics, Nadya reflects on the scandal of the Christian imagination and the role of reading classic books in forming a nourished imagination.

Nadya Williams and Eric Hutchinson delve into T.S. Eliot's poem 'The Hollow Men', exploring its themes, complexities, and the nature of classic literature. They discuss what defines a classic, the challenges of appreciating poetry today, and how to cultivate an appreciation for it. The conversation also touches on the role of poets in society and the importance of art and poetry in the human experience, concluding with reflections on the necessity of literature and the interconnectedness of past and present works.
Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction to T.S. Eliot and The Hollow Men
03:09 Defining a Classic: What Makes Literature Timeless?
05:56 The Challenges of Appreciating Classics in Modern Times
09:03 Training Ourselves to Read and Appreciate Poetry
11:54 The Complexity of The Hollow Men: Analyzing the Poem
14:54 Imagery and Themes in The Hollow Men
17:51 Understanding the Spiritual Disease in The Hollow Men
21:01 The Role of Community in Appreciating Poetry
23:51 The Lasting Impact of T.S. Eliot's Work
33:32 Aeneas and the Underworld: Literary Connections
39:13 Intertextuality: Virgil, Dante, and Conrad
45:04 The Role of Tradition in Literature
49:51 The Poet's Purpose: Creation and Connection
57:51 The Necessity of Poetry in Human Experience

Nadya Williams and Dr. Leslie Baynes explore the works of C.S. Lewis, particularly focusing on 'The Great Divorce.' They discuss the definition of a classic, the significance of free will, and the themes of choice and divine grace in Lewis's writing. The conversation also touches on Lewis's influences, his relationships with women, and the timeless messages found in his works that resonate with modern readers. Additionally, Dr. Baynes shares insights about her upcoming book on Lewis and the Bible.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to C.S. Lewis and His Works
02:47 Defining a Classic: The Enduring Nature of Literature
05:51 The Impact of C.S. Lewis's Works on Readers
08:46 C.S. Lewis's Life and Influences During WWII
11:57 The Great Divorce: Themes and Symbolism
14:51 Understanding Theosis and Its Significance
17:34 The Role of Language and Beauty in Lewis's Writing
20:48 The Evolution of Lewis's Poetry and Literary Style
22:47 The Lasting Legacy of C.S. Lewis
31:24 Theosis and Divine Reality
34:08 The Vignettes of The Great Divorce
37:26 Free Will and Self-Reflection
42:11 Universalism vs. Predestination
44:23 Timeless Lessons from The Great Divorce
47:11 Exploring Lewis's New Book
56:05 Literary Influences and Personal Connections

Nadya Williams and Carolyn Weber explore the literary significance of Dorothy L. Sayers' 'Gaudy Night', discussing its themes of women's roles in academia, the intersection of murder mysteries and theology, and the nature of what constitutes a classic. They look into Sayers' complex character, her contributions to literature, and the broader implications of her work in the context of 20th-century society. 
Chapters
00:00 The Literary Landscape of 1935


03:15 Defining a Classic
 
04:53 Dorothy L. Sayers: A Complex Figure
 
09:42 Murder Mysteries and Theology
 
11:42 Exploring Gaudy Night
 
19:12 Oxford as a Character
 
22:37 Women in Academia
 
30:07 The Pursuit of Meaningful Work
 
32:47 The Unusual Mystery of Gaudy Night
 
40:04 Reading Murder Mysteries as a Christian