Let’s go back to the 19th century and talk about one of the scariest novels we’ve ever read on the Classical Mind (but maybe not for the reasons you might think) with Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. On this episode, Junius and Wesley discuss the different editions of this book before getting into some of its underlying philosophy like the responsibilities a creator has to their creatures and vice-versa, romanticism’s critique of scientism, and the moral deterioration that results from sin. Join us as we dive deeply into the text and make some fun connections with other books we’ve read or will read in the Classical Mind program (we’re looking at you J.R.R. Tolkien). Endnotes: * Junius: The Bicentennial Man by Isaac Asimov * Wesley* “Show Me How to Live” by Audioslave* Grendel by John Gardner This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.theclassicalmind.com/subscribe
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The Aeneid by Virgil
In this episode of The Classical Mind, we take on Virgil’s Aeneid. We explore Aeneas’ journey as both refugee and empire-builder, tracing his flight from Troy, his doomed romance with Dido, his descent into the underworld, and the brutal war that led to the founding of Rome. Along the way, we wrestle with the epic’s central tensions: fate and providence, duty (pietas) and rage (furor), divine will and human cost. What kind of hero is Aeneas? Why does the poem end with vengeance and wrath? And what does Virgil want us to believe—or question—about Rome’s origins? Endnotes: * Junius: * Thebaid by Statius * "Dido's Lament" by Henry Purcell* Wesley: "White Flag" by Dido This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.theclassicalmind.com/subscribe
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The Journey of the Mind to God by Bonaventure (A Crossover Episode with the Sacramentalists Podcast)
In this special crossover episode of The Sacramentalists Podcast and The Classical Mind Podcast, we dive deep into St. Bonaventure’s The Journey of the Mind to God—a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that maps the soul’s ascent to divine union. Together, we explore Bonaventure’s vision of contemplation, the role of intellect and love in knowing God, and the ways in which his thought is deeply sacramental, drawing from both Scripture and the broader Catholic tradition. Join us as we discuss the structure of Bonaventure’s journey, the influence of St. Augustine and Pseudo-Dionysius, and how this medieval classic speaks to modern Christians seeking a deeper, more mystical encounter with God. Whether you're new to Bonaventure or a longtime admirer, this episode will challenge and inspire you to see creation, reason, and revelation as pathways to divine illumination. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.theclassicalmind.com/subscribe
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Intention by G.E.M. Anscombe
Join us on the Classical Mind podcast as we embark on an intellectual journey into the heart of G.E.M. Anscombe's groundbreaking work, "Intention." Dr. Junius Johnson and Fr. Wesley Walker engage in a stimulating conversation, unraveling the complexities of Anscombe's philosophical insights. In this episode, they delve into the essence of intentionality, exploring its implications for human action, free will, and moral responsibility. Whether you're a seasoned philosopher or simply curious about the nature of human intention, this episode offers a rich and enlightening discussion. Tune in to the Classical Mind podcast and expand your understanding of this pivotal philosophical work. End notes: * Junius: Vantage Point * Wesley: * Wittgenstein's Tractatus* Dr. Jennifer Frey on Anscombe This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.theclassicalmind.com/subscribe
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Confessions by Saint Augustine
Delve into the depths of Saint Augustine's Confessions on the Classical Mind podcast. Explore themes of sin, redemption,and the journey towards spiritual enlightenment in this timeless autobiography. Discover how Augustine's personal struggles and philosophical inquiries continue to resonate with modern audiences.Endnotes:* Junius: Tractates on the Gospel of John by Saint Augustine* Wesley: * “Something More (Augustine’s Confession)” by Switchfoot* “The Apostle Paul and the Introspective Conscience of the West” by Krister Stendahl* Bonus: Lady Bird (2017)Thank you for listening to The Classical Mind. Please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing the show wherever you get your podcasts. you can support our work financially at Substack. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.theclassicalmind.com/subscribe
New Zealand