Classical Wisdom Speaks

There is a place, a narrow strip of land, where bravery and sacrifice became legendary... where the famed ‘300' laid down their lives to save Hellas in 480 BC...But that is not the only battle in which blood was shed at Thermopylae...Dr. Michael Livingston and Myke Cole discuss their recently released book "The Killing Ground: A Biography of Thermopylae" and discover the chilling stories found on this particular field...We not only look at the history of the ‘killing grounds' but also into the heart of warfare itself: the motivations of those who fight, the strategies they employ, and the horrifying price they have to pay.

From Penelope to Fulvia and beyond, discover the lives of ancient women. Today Anya is joined by Dr. Daisy Dunn, to discuss the ‘missing thread' of ancient history: the often-overlooked women who helped shape civilizations. Dr Daisy Dunn is an award-winning classicist and the author of several books, including The Missing Thread: A New History of the Ancient World through the Women Who Shaped It.You can buy it here: https://geni.us/TheMissingThread Hosted by Anya Leonard of Classical Wisdom. To learn more about Classical Wisdom, and sign up for our free newsletter, please go to https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

Discover the woman who brought Greek mythology to America… Today Anya is joined by Victoria Houseman to discuss the life and legacy of Edith Hamilton, the American Classicist who brought Greek mythology and ancient cultures to a vast new audience.Her books remain beloved classics in their own right, and illuminate not only the Greeks and Romans, but also how the ancients can help us understand the tumultuous twentieth century.Victoria Houseman is a historian and associate professor in the Department of History and Philosophy at the University of Wisconsin–River Falls.You can buy “American Classicist: The Life and Loves of Edith Hamilton” by Victoria Houseman here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0691236186/?bestFormat=true&k=american%20classicist&ref_=nb_sb_ss_w_scx-ent-pd-bk-d_di_k0_1_19&crid=3FOD5P0ESZB2JHosted by Anya Leonard of Classical Wisdom. To learn more about Classical Wisdom, and sign up for our free newsletter, please go to https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

While Stoicism is currently all the rage -and for good reason- it isn't the only philosophy to address some of life's toughest questions. From dealing with uncertainty, stress, grief and more, we have a wonderful toolbox of wisdom at our disposal, if only we know where to look.Renowned Stoics and philosophers, Massimo Pigliucci, Donald Robertson and John Sellars, take the lessons of Stoicism... and beyond... to see how we can approach life's difficulties and incorporate time-tested philosophies into our modern life. This event is hosted by Anya Leonard of Classical Wisdom. To learn more about Classical Wisdom and to sign up for the free newsletter, please go to: https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

How did two different philosophies - that have seen a resurgence of interest in the Western world - both arrive at such similar conclusions for how to live a happy life?Despite being separated by hundreds of years and thousands of miles, Stoicism and Buddhism have striking similarities...so much so some have wondered if there was some exchange of ideas between the forefathers of each ideology.But how exactly are these philosophies alike? What are the critical differences? And perhaps most importantly of all, what can these philosophies teach us today so we can be better people?Watch Anya Leonard of Classical Wisdom and Dr. Benjamin B. Olshin, Research Associate at Bryn Mawr College, discuss Stoicism and Buddhism and see if they are truly two sides of the same coin...You can find all of Benjamin's books and art here: https://benjaminbolshin.net/publicationsThis event was brought to you by Classical Wisdom. To learn more about Classical Wisdom, and sign up for our free newsletter, please go to https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

What happens AFTER an apocalypse?How did ancient societies rebuild after catastrophic events… and what can that teach us about our world now?Today, Anya is joined by DR ERIC H. CLINE, author of the bestselling history book 1177 B.C and its recent sequel, After 1177 B.C.: The Survival of Civilizations. They'll be discussing what to do if your society collapses… and why the ancient 'dark ages' weren't so dark.Dr. Cline is Professor of Classical and Ancient Near Eastern Studies and Anthropology, the former Chair of the Department of Classical and Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations, and the current Director of the GWU Capitol Archaeological Institute. He is a National Geographic Explorer, a Fulbright scholar, an NEH Public Scholar, a Getty Scholar, and an award-winning teacher. You can buy After 1177 B.C.: The Survival of Civilizations here: https://www.amazon.com/After-1177-B-C-Survival-Civilizations/dp/0691192138Hosted by Anya Leonard of Classical Wisdom. To learn more about Classical Wisdom, and sign up for our free newsletter, please go to https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

Anxiety disorders are the most common of all mental disorders. Considered pathology, it is the most diagnosed and medicated of all psychological disorders... but what if it isn't always or only a medical condition? From Greek tragedies and Buddhism to actual practices from famous doctors like Galen, there are a myriad of important lessons about anxiety that can be gleaned from the past. Indeed the ancients had a lot to say about anxiety and mental conditions in general... and their perspective and observations were at times very different from those found in our modern era. Perhaps it's time to rethink anxiety. With the help of both ancient philosophy and history, how can we see anxiety as a source not only of suffering, but also of insight? Featuring professor emeritus of philosophy at Brooklyn College and author of “Anxiety: A Philosophical Guide”, Samir Chopra, along with Vanderbilt professor and author of “How to Be Healthy”, Katherine D. Van Schaik, and Michael Fontaine, professor of Classics at Cornell University and author of “How to Grieve”.Hosted by Anya Leonard of Classical Wisdom. To learn more about Classical Wisdom, and sign up for our free newsletter, please go to https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

Discover how the best physician is also a philosopher… From the gladiators' arena to the imperial court, the life and career of the ancient doctor Galen is among the most extraordinary in the ancient world.A Greek, a Roman, a doctor, and a thinker, Galen was also one of the most prolific of all ancient writers, having written ten per cent of all ancient texts from before 350CE.Today, Anya is joined by KATHERINE D. VAN SCHAIK, herself both a Classicist and an MD, to discuss Galen's immense legacy in medicine, what he got right and wrong about health… and how a dream may have changed the course of history.Katherine D. Van Schaik is a MD, PhD, MA and author of “How to Be Healthy: An Ancient Guide to Wellness”. She received her PhD in Ancient History from the Harvard Department of the Classics and her MD from Harvard Medical School. You can buy How to Be Healthy: An Ancient Guide to Wellness here: https://press.princeton.edu/books/hardcover/9780691206271/how-to-be-healthyHosted by Anya Leonard of Classical Wisdom. To learn more about Classical Wisdom, and sign up for our free newsletter, please go to https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/ 

It's philosophy's ultimate dinner party… and you're invited.On today's Classical Wisdom Speaks, Anya is joined by Professor Alex Priou to discuss Plato's most joyful and playful work, The Symposium.Discover how taking an unconventional approach to Plato can illuminate both this ancient text and how we live today.ALEX PRIOU is Associate Professor of Political Philosophy at the University of Austin. He is the author of many books, including 'Musings on Plato's Symposium', as well as a number of articles on the history of philosophy. He is also the co-host of a philosophy podcast, The New Thinkery. You can listen here: https://thenewthinkery.com/You can purchase ‘Musings on Plato's Symposium” by Alex Priou here: https://www.amazon.com/Musings-Platos-Symposium-Alex-Priou-ebook/dp/B0CHZ3WS69/Hosted by Anya Leonard of Classical Wisdom. To learn more about Classical Wisdom, and sign up for our free newsletter, please go to https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

Discover the ancient nomadic tribe that helped inspire the myth of the Amazons… and their legacy in the world today.On today's Classical Wisdom Speaks, Anya is joined by Professor Christopher Beckwith, an expert on the mysterious and compelling Scythians.Join them as they discuss the secrets of this influential yet overlooked people, their vanished empire, how Herodotus is a very reliable source after all. You can purchase ‘The Scythian Empire: Central Eurasia and the Birth of the Classical Age from Persia to China' by Christopher Beckwith here:https://www.amazon.com/Scythian-Empire-Central-Eurasia-Classical/dp/0691240531Christopher I. Beckwith is an American philologist and distinguished professor in the Department of Central Eurasian Studies at Indiana University Bloomington, Indiana.Hosted by Anya Leonard of Classical Wisdom. To learn more about Classical Wisdom, and sign up for our free newsletter, please go to https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

They say all philosophy is but a series of footnotes to Plato. Yet the remarkable story of the great philosopher's life has remained untold—until now.On today's Classical Wisdom Speaks, Anya is joined by independent scholar and translator Robin Waterfield to discuss his latest book ‘Plato of Athens', the first ever full-length biography of Plato.Separate fact from fiction and discover if Plato really died from not knowing a riddle, whether the so-called letters of Plato are authentic or not… and how Plato was like Lord of the Rings author J.R.R. Tolkien.You can purchase ‘Plato of Athens' by Robin Waterfield here.ROBIN WATERFIELD is the author of many books, including ‘Plato of Athens: A Life in Philosophy', as well as ‘Marcus Aurelius' Meditations: The Annotated Edition'.Hosted by Anya Leonard of Classical Wisdom. To learn more about Classical Wisdom, and sign up for our free newsletter, please go to https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

Take a deep dive into three of ancient Greece's most fascinating women - both historical and mythological.  What can we discover about Sappho, Medea and Antigone by studying the original texts? Join Diane Rayor, an extremely talented and engaged translator as she takes you 'behind the scenes' of some of the most powerful works from the ancient world. DIANE J. RAYOR is Professor Emerita of Classics at Grand Valley State University, Michigan. She has published six book translations of ancient Greek poetry and drama: Sappho: A New Translation of the Complete Works (Cambridge University Press, paperback 2nd edition Feb.Hosted by Anya Leonard of Classical Wisdom. To learn more about Classical Wisdom, and sign up for our free newsletter, please go to https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

In a world brimming with information and rapidly shifting beliefs, the lessons from Socrates resonate more than ever.How do we seek knowledge in an age of uncertainty? How can we engage in meaningful dialogue that encourages critical thinking? What can his ideas teach us about social justice, politics, education and our own minds?Enjoy this interdisciplinary discussion, looking at the relevance of Socrates today, drawing on the perspectives of classics, history, philosophy, and psychology and discover the life and legacy of one of history's most influential thinkers and why his ideas continue to inspire and provoke us today.Featuring prominent professors and renowned authors including: Armand D'Angour, Donald Robertson, Angie Hobbs and Massimo Pigliucci. Moderated and hosted by Anya Leonard of Classical Wisdom.Hosted by Anya Leonard of Classical Wisdom. To learn more about Classical Wisdom, and sign up for our free newsletter, please go to https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

The ancients had plenty of thoughts about animals... but are their insights helpful to us now? How did they treat animals? What did they think of them? And should we eat meat? Today's Classical Wisdom Speaks podcast is with Mark Usher, the Lyman-Roberts Professor of Classical Languages and Literature and a member of the Department of Geography and Geosciences at the University of Vermont. With his wife, he also built, owns, and operates Works & Days Farm in Shoreham, Vermont. Today we'll be talking about his most recent book, How to Care About Animals: An Ancient Guide to Creatures Great and Small. You can purchase his book hereThis podcast is brought to you by Classical Wisdom, a site dedicated to bringing ancient wisdom to modern minds. To learn more about the Classics and to sign up for our free newsletter, please go to: https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

Everyone knows Athens and Sparta...and yet, THEBES is not the common household name it should be.From its captivating mythology to its fantastic history, we'll look at the archeology, the military, the legends and the truth of this essential city state.Featuring Paul Cartledge of Cambridge University, James Romm of Bard College, Stephen Dando-Collins of Turner Publishing, Stephanie Larson of Bucknell University, Joel Christensen of Brandeis University and Elton Barker of The Open University. Hosted by Anya Leonard of Classical Wisdom. To learn more about Classical Wisdom, please go to https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

Should Ivanka Trump and Hunter Biden marry? Well, Plato might think that was a good idea... Today''s Classical Wisdom speaks podcast is with Melissa Lane, the Class of 1943 Professor of Politics and a faculty member of the Program in Classical Philosophy at Princeton University. She is author of many books, including most recently, “Of Rule and Office: Plato's Ideas of the Political.”We discuss Juvenal's conundrum, Plato's political views of rulers and the nature of rule and ask: did Plato believe in ancient Checks and Balances? You can find Professor Lane's book, “Of Rule and Office: Plato's Ideas of the Political.” here: https://press.princeton.edu/books/hardcover/9780691192154/of-rule-and-officeIf you are interested in learning more about ancient Philosophy specifically and the Classics in general, check out Classical Wisdom and sign up for our free newsletter here: https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

In the boom time in Roman Britain, 3rd century AD, one Roman Emperor made his mark on the chaotic island before he was canceled in his own time... and afterwards. But was the treatment of Magnus Maximus unfair? Was he just a usurper? Or absolutely pivotal in the history and mythology of Britain?Today's Classical Wisdom Speaks podcast is with Maxwell Craven, historian, archaeologist, and author of several books, including his most recent: "Magnus Maximus: The Neglected Roman Emperor and his British Legacy", of which we speak about today. You can buy Max's book on Magnus Maximus here.If you are interested in learning more about history specifically and the Classics in general, check out Classical Wisdom and sign up for our free newsletter here: https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

What do the ancient Greek goddesses reveal about ancient Greek culture? Why did people craft such immoral and often unlikeable gods? And what should we really think about Hera? Today's Classical Wisdom Speaks Podcast is with  NATALIE HAYNES, author of several books, including Pandora's Jar, Stone Blind and A Thousand Ships, which was a national bestseller and shortlisted for the 2020 Women's Prize for Fiction.  Natalie is a comedian— as well as a broadcaster for the BBC, and she has written for The Times, The Independent, The Guardian, and The Observer. Today we'll talk about her most recent book, Divine Might.You can also buy Divine Might here: https://www.amazon.com/DIVINE-MIGHT-author/dp/1529089484If you are interested in learning more about mythology specifically and the Classics in general, check out Classical Wisdom and sign up for our free newsletter here: https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

The famed actor and comedian, Stephen Fry, discusses the ancient languages, etymology, and the joy of discovering the Classics through ancient Greek. We question whether Odysseus... or any of the other great names were really heroes and how these stories give us insight on AI and social media, among other things. Have a listen and let me know why YOU think myths are important...If you want to enjoy Stephen's regular witticisms, you can check out his newsletter here: https://stephenfry.substack.com/You can also buy his Mythos book here: https://www.amazon.com/Mythos-Stephen...If you are interested in learning more about mythology specifically and the Classics in general, check out Classical Wisdom and sign up for our free newsletter here: https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

Flavius Claudius Julianus turned the world upside down. Also known as Julian the Apostate as well as Julian the Philosopher, he ruled Rome as sole emperor for just a year and a half, from 361 to 363. Nonetheless, his impact was substantial. Despite the fact that he was the nephew of Constantine the Great, the first Christian emperor of Rome, Julian fought to return Rome to the old gods who had led his ancestors to build their vast empire. As emperor, Julian set about reforming the administration, conquering new territories, and reviving ancient religions. He was scorned in his time for repudiating Christianity and demonized as an apostate for willfully rejecting Christ. Through the centuries, Julian has been viewed by many as a tragic figure who sought to save Rome from its enemies... as well as a traitor to God and violent oppressor of Christians.But who was he... really? And how did his short time as ruler impact Western history? Featuring Philip Freeman, Professor of Humanities at Pepperdine University in Malibu, California. He earned his Ph.D. from Harvard University in Classical Philology and Celtic Languages and Literatures. He is the author of numerous books, including, “Alexander the Great”, “How to Tell a Story”, “How to Grow Old”, “Julius Caesar” and most recently, “Julian: Rome's Last Pagan Emperor”. You can purchase Philip's book here: https://www.amazon.com/Julian-Romes-Pagan-Emperor-Ancient/dp/0300256647This event is brought to you by Classical Wisdom, a site dedicated to bringing ancient wisdom to modern minds. You can learn more about our mission and subscribe to our free newsletter here:https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

Is there evidence to the tales of Aeneas and the Trojan refugees migrating to Italian shores? Classical Wisdom presents Petros Koutoupis, as he explores this narrative and attempts to shed light on the archaeology of the region during the Late Bronze Age.Petros Koutoupis is an author and independent historical researcher, focusing predominantly on the Late Bronze and Early Iron Age periods of the Eastern Mediterranean and general Near East. Petros is also the author and host of the historical newsletter and podcast, Digging Up The Past. You can learn more by visiting https://diggingupthepast.net.This conversation is brought to you by Classical Wisdom, a site dedicated to bringing ancient wisdom to modern minds. To learn more about Classical Wisdom and to sign up for our free newsletter, please go to: https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

Throughout the ages people have imagined “apocalypses”... but how they determined the end of the world shaped their philosophies... as is still the case. From natural disaster and moral revenge to our modern situation of increasing AI and anthropogenic concerns, contemplating the ‘end of days' can help us cope with the world as it is... or prepare us for difficult times ahead. In an actually not morbid at all conversation, Christopher Star, professor of classics at Middlebury College and author of Apocalypse and Golden Age: The End of the World in Greek and Roman Thought, discusses how the ancients thought about catastrophe and why we should think about it now.You can find Professor Star's book, Apocalypse and Golden Age: The End of the World in Greek and Roman Thought, Here.This conversation is brought to you by Classical Wisdom, a site dedicated to bringing ancient wisdom to modern minds. To learn more about Classical Wisdom and to sign up for our free newsletter, please go to: https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/ 

How aware are we when we make choices? From playing rock paper scissors and gambling to complex ethical decisions like the trolley problem and self-driving cars, game theory and choice theory are hugely important and impactful in our modern era... but so too did they play an essential role in the ancient world. Today's Classical Wisdom Speaks Podcast is with Josiah Ober, the Mitsotakis Professor in the School of Humanities and Sciences, Professor of Political Science and Classics and Senior Fellow Hoover Institution at Stanford University. He is also the author of the recently released book, "The Greeks and the Rational: The Discovery of Practical Reason."You can find Josiah's book here: https://www.ucpress.edu/book/9780520380165/the-greeks-and-the-rationalThis podcast is brought to you by Classical Wisdom. You can learn more about Classical Wisdom and sign up for our free newsletter here:  https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

In 45 B.C., the Roman statesman and philosopher Cicero embarked on an almost impossible task... He wrote a philosophical dialogue trying to understand the gods, their nature, how they interact with the world of human beings... and indeed, if they care about humans at all! On the Nature of the Gods (De Natura Deorum) tries to answer these eternal questions through the ancient philosophical approaches of Epicureanism, Stoicism and Skepticism. While Cicero is present in all the dialogues, he does not participate... instead three speakers represent the three differing perspectives and help illuminate his thoughts. Containing profound psychological and moral insights, this seminal text - recently translated by George J. Thomas (with the pen name Quintus Curtius) - is a compelling testament to the necessity of human agency in an indifferent universe.But what do these approaches say... and what can they teach us today?  Famed translator George J. Thomas and Professor of Classics at Cornell University, Michael Fontaine, discuss the Nature of Gods and how ancient philosophy can help us understand the divine. You can enjoy George's new annotated translation here: https://qcurtius.com/books/on-the-nature-of-the-gods/For more information about Classical Wisdom and to sign up for our free newsletter, please check out our website at: http://classicalwisdom.com

What is the future -as well as the past - of literary fiction? It is time for a Renaissance?Destined for the dustbin of history, to be discarded along with so many quaint anachronisms, or is the genre itself bound for a long overdue renaissance?Author and self-confessed “hopeless optimist,” Joel Bowman joins us for an in-depth discussion about these subjects in the context of his newest novel – the classically inspired Night Drew Her Sable Cloak.About the Speaker:A journalist by vocation, Mr. Bowman's essays and columns have appeared in numerous news outlets and academic journals in the US and abroad. After two decades writing and speaking publicly about politics, economics and international living, Mr. Bowman turned his hand to fiction. His first novel – Morris, Alive – received critical acclaim from multiple New York Times bestselling authors. Night Drew Her Sable Cloak is his second work of literary fiction.You can find Joel's books here: https://joelbowman.substack.com/s/booksThis event is brought to you by Classical Wisdom, a site dedicated to bringing Ancient Wisdom to Modern Minds. You can learn more about our mission to promote and preserve the Classics and sign up for our free newsletter here:https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

Though it was the largest religion in the ancient world by both the number of adherents and geographical scope, Zoroastrianism is still vastly understudied in religion, history, and especially classics.What is Zoroastrianism? How has this Iranian religion impacted the Classical World? And why is one of the world's oldest organized faiths so often over looked? Pablo Vazquez, a noted scholar of and convert to Zoroastrianism, provides an introduction to one of the oldest continuously practiced faiths in history, how the faith influenced the ancient world, and what it is like today.Central to this will be the Gathas and the Old Avestan texts which are said to be composed directly by the religion's enigmatic founder, Zarathushtra, and thus form the core of Zoroastrianism.You can order Pablo's book, The Sacred Gathas of Zarathushtra & the Old Avestan Canon: A Modern Translation of Ancient Wisdom, here: https://www.amazon.com/Sacred-Gathas-Zarathushtra-Avestan-Canon/dp/1785359614This podcast was brought to you by Classical Wisdom, a site dedicated to bringing ancient wisdom to modern minds. To learn more about Classical Wisdom and sign up for our free newsletter, please go to: https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

How does the relationship between Odysseus and Telemachus play out? What does the son think about the murder of the suitors? And why exactly has this story of the Trojan Cycle captivated its listeners and readers throughout the millennia... to this very day? Today's Podcast is with TAD CRAWFORD, founder and publisher of Allworth Press as well as author of A Floating Life: A Novel, The Secret Life of Money and most recently, On Wine-Dark Seas: A Novel of Odysseus and His Fatherless Son Telemachus...Now, is this the sequel to the Odyssey? You decide...You can find Tad's book, On Wine-Dark Seas: A Novel of Odysseus and His Fatherless Son Telemachus, here: On Wine-Dark Seas: A Novel of Odysseus and His Fatherless Son TelemachusThis podcast was brought to you by Classical Wisdom, a site dedicated to bringing ancient wisdom to modern minds. To learn more about Classical Wisdom and sign up for our free newsletter, please go to: https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

The saying “History is myth and myth is history” is something we have been discussing a lot of late at Classical Wisdom. Where does the story of Aeneas lie? Today's Classical Wisdom Speaks podcast is with  Anthony Adolph, a professional genealogist, broadcaster and writer of numerous books on ancestry and general history, including his most recent, In Search of Aeneas: Classical Myth or Bronze Age Hero?, of which we'll discuss today.You can find Anthony's book here.This podcast is brought to you by Classical Wisdom, a site dedicated to bringing ancient Wisdom to modern minds. You can learn more and sign up for our free newsletter here: https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

Marcus Aurelius is generally regarded as one of the "Five Good Emperors" and is often praised for his Stoic philosophy, particularly as expressed in his "Meditations." However, like any historical figure, he is not without criticisms both in his own time and in ours...But are these insignificant issues? Or do they undermine his position as a philosopher and disciple of Stoicism?  His reign was marked by military conflicts, political intrigues, and compromises that may not align perfectly with Stoic ideals. Was he truly a Stoic? About the Panelists:Angie Hobbs gained a degree in Classics and a PhD in Ancient Philosophy at the University of Cambridge and in 2012 she was appointed Professor of the Public Understanding of Philosophy at the University of Sheffield. She is author of many books, including' Plato and the Hero' (C.U.P) and ‘Plato's Republic: a Ladybird Expert Book'. She contributes regularly to radio and TV programmes and other media, including 26 appearances on In Our Time on Radio 4.  She has spoken at the World Economic Forum at Davos, the Houses of Parliament, the Scottish Parliament and Westminster Abbey and been the guest on Desert Island Discs, Private Passions and Test Match Special and has most recently been filmed with Mary Beard discussing Marcus Aurelius. You can follow Angie at @drangiehobbs and learn more about her at angiehobbs.com.Massimo Pigliucci is an author, blogger, podcaster, as well as the K.D. Irani Professor of Philosophy at the City College of New York. His academic work is in evolutionary biology, philosophy of science, the nature of pseudoscience, and practical philosophy. Massimo publishes regular columns in Skeptical Inquirer and in Philosophy Now. His books include ‘How to Be a Stoic: Using Ancient Philosophy to Live a Modern Life' (Basic Books) and ‘Nonsense on Stilts: How to Tell Science from Bunk' (University of Chicago Press). Massimo's latest book is ‘The Quest for Character: What the Story of Socrates and Alcibiades Teaches Us about Our Search for Good Leaders' (Basic Books). More by Massimo at https://newstoicism.org.Donald Robertson is an author and psychotherapist, specializing in the relationship between modern cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and ancient Greek philosophy. He is one of the founding members of the Modern Stoicism organization and the author of three books on Marcus Aurelius.  ‘How to Think Like a Roman Emperor', a self-help book; 'Verissimus: The Stoic Philosophy of Marcus Aurelius', a graphic novel; and, most recently, a biography titled 'Marcus Aurelius: The Stoic Emperor' due to be released by Yale University Press as part of their Ancient Lives series on February 6th.  He has also edited the Capstone Classics edition of the ‘Meditations' and contributed a chapter on Marcus Aurelius and psychotherapy to the forthcoming 'Cambridge Companion to Marcus Aurelius' Meditations.'  Donald is also the president and founder of the Plato's Academy Centre nonprofit, based in Greece.Moderated by Anya Leonard, the founder and Director of Classical Wisdom, a site dedicated to bringing ancient wisdom to modern minds. Author of the children's book, "Sappho: The Lost Poetess", dedicated to the life, works and remarkable recent discovery of a poem written by the 7th century Poetess, Sappho, Anya has also recently launched Classical Wisdom Kids, a program bringing ancient wisdom to future minds. You can see Classical Wisdom's Books here: https://classicalwisdombooks.com/

Plagiarism versus Forgery... Economic versus Individualistic Incentives... Virtuous copying versus pride in originality...In an era where the discussion of Plagiarism has become all the rage, it's important to look back over the history of Plagiarism, of institutions, of authority and of knowledge itself. Dr. James Hankins, professor of History at Harvard University and Peter Scott Adamson, professor at Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich and host of the weekly podcast History of Philosophy without any gaps discuss what Plagiarism is and how these allegations can be seen both now - and throughout history. This podcast was brought to you by Classical Wisdom, a site dedicated to bringing ancient wisdom to modern minds. You can find out more (as well as sign up for our free newsletter) here: https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/About the Speakers:Dr. James Hankins, professor of History at Harvard University and an intellectual historian specializing in the Italian Renaissance and author of many books, including, Virtue Politics: Soulcraft and Statecraft.Peter Scott Adamson, professor of philosophy in late antiquity and in the Islamic world at the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich; and professor of ancient and medieval philosophy at King's College London. He is also host of the weekly podcast History of Philosophy without any gaps and author of Don't Think for Yourself: Authority and Belief in Medieval Philosophy.Moderated by Anya Leonard, founder and Director of Classical Wisdom. To learn more about Classical Wisdom, please go to https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

What are Big and Little Caesars? Both in ancient and modern times? And are there certain political and social environments that are fertile for these sorts of Caesars in their rise to power? And should we know more about this topic before the next election series?This Classical Wisdom Speaks podcast is with Sir William Robert Ferdinand Mount, British writer, novelist, and columnist for The Sunday Times, The Daily Telegraph and London Review of Books as well as a political commentator.He is the author of many books, including his most recent,  “Big Caesars and Little Caesars: How They Rise and How They Fall - From Julius Caesar to Boris Johnson” Of which we'll speak about today... You can find Ferdinand's book here: https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/big-caesars-and-little-caesars-9781399409681/You can also sign up for Classical Wisdom's free newsletter here: https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/Song is Keyboard Sonata No. 47 in B Minor, Hob. XVI:32: I. Allegro moderato

Today children already have so many expectations. From excelling in school, practicing sports and hobbies, to learning languages that can give them the ‘competitive' edge, there simply isn't enough time as it is to fit it all in.In their modern overloaded schedules, it's extremely difficult to see how ancient Greek and Latin feature in young people's lives.But if we can't inspire an interest in the next generation, do these ancient languages have a future?Watch an elite panel of ancient Greek and Latin teachers to discuss how can we instill an interest in the youth today, so we can help preserve our collective history for tomorrow.Featuring the famous Eugenia Manolidou, Greek classical composer, and course director at ancient Greek school Elliniki Agogi, Steven Hunt, from the University of Cambridge and Classics for All, as well as Gerardo Guzmàn, ancient Greek professor at the renowned Vivarium Novum Academy in Rome.This event was hosted by Classical Wisdom, a site dedicated to bringing ancient wisdom to modern minds. Sign up for our free newsletter here: https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/About our Speakers:Eugenia Manolidou is a Greek classical composer, conductor, entertainment television presenter and course director at Elliniki Agogi, a school dedicated to the ancient Greek language, History and Philosophy to adults and children since 1994.Steven Hunt, Senior Teaching Associate at the University of Cambridge, Editor of The Journal of Classics Teaching and works with the The Association for Latin Teaching, the Cambridge Schools' Classics Project and Classics for All.Gerardo Guzmàn is a professor of the Ancient Greek language and teaches at the famous Vivarium Novum Academy in Rome.Anya Leonard is the founder and Director of Classical Wisdom, a site dedicated to bringing ancient wisdom to modern minds, as well as the newest addition: Classical Wisdom Kids

How do you define a Rebel? Are should we glorify them? Or not? Are they heroes or anti-heroes? Have some done better in the history books than others? Today's Classical Wisdom Speaks Podcast is with Stephen Dando-Collins, the award-winning and very prolific author of over 40 books, including Rise of an Empire, on which the major motion picture 300: Rise of an Empire was based, as well as his most recent, “Seven Against Thebes”. In today's episode, however, we discus  another  one of his recent book, “Rebels Against Rome”.You can purchase Stephen's book, "Rebels Against Rome: 400 Years of Rebellions Against the Rule of Rome" Here.You can support Classical Wisdom's mission of bringing ancient wisdom to modern minds by checking our free newsletter at: https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

Why should we say “no”? What is the importance of being able to do so? And can the ancient philosophy of cynicism help us with our modern ills? Today we'll look at one of the most controversial philosophers from the classical world - Diogenes the Dog - and how his example can be good for us...?Today's Classical Wisdom Speaks Podcast is with M. D. Usher is the Lyman-Roberts Professor of Classical Languages and Literature and a member of the Department of Geography and Geosciences at the University of Vermont. Mark has recently published a book with PUP called, “How to Say No: An Ancient Guide to the Art of Cynicism ”, of which we'll be speaking about today. You can find "How to Say No: An Ancient Guide to the Art of Cynicism" here.This podcast was brought to you by Classical Wisdom, a site dedicated to bringing ancient wisdom to modern minds. You can sign up for our free newsletter and bring the classics to your inbox here: https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

Is Democracy dying? Polls show that Americans on both sides of the political spectrum feel it's under attack... but does the situation have to be so dire?Professors Brook Manville and Josiah Ober offer a guide to democratic renewal in order to guarantee civic rights of freedom, equality, and dignity. Tracing the long progression toward self-government through four key moments in democracy's history: Classical Athens, Republican Rome, Great Britain's constitutional monarchy, and America's founding, they compare what worked and what failed in each case... to draw out lessons for how modern democracies can survive and thrive.You can their book, The Civic Bargain: How Democracy Survives, here.About the Speakers:Brook Manville is an independent consultant who writes about politics, democracy, technology, and business. Previously a partner with McKinsey & Co. and an award-winning professor at Northwestern University, he is the author of The Origins of Citizenship in Ancient Athens (Princeton) and A Company of Citizens: What the World's First Democracy Teaches Leaders About Creating Great Organizations (with Josiah Ober).Josiah Ober is the Constantine Mitsotakis Professor in the School of Humanities and Sciences at Stanford University and Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution. He is the author of The Rise and Fall of Classical Greece, Democracy and Knowledge: Innovation and Learning in Classical Athens (both Princeton), The Greeks and the Rational: The Discovery of Practical Reason, and other books.--This event is brought to you by Classical Wisdom. To learn more about us and to enjoy our free newsletter, please go to: https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

Public bathhouses embodied the Roman way of life, from food and fashion to sculpture and sports. The most popular institution of the ancient Mediterranean world, the baths drew people of all backgrounds....but were all welcome there?Using the Roman bathhouse - a place suffused with nudity, sex, and magic - as a social laboratory, Professor Yaron Eliav reveals how Jews (and Christians) interacted with Greco-Roman culture... resulting in a cross-cultural engagement that shaped Western civilization as we know it.Enjoy this provocative discussion with Yaron Eliav and Anya Leonard and discover Jews of antiquity and their relationships in the Classical World.Yaron Z. Eliav is associate professor of rabbinic literature and Jewish history of late antiquity at the University of Michigan. He is the author of God's Mountain: The Temple Mount in Time, Place, and Memory and the producer of the documentary Paul in Athens.Yaron's newest book, A Jew in the Roman Bathhouse, challenges us to rethink the relationship between Judaism and Graeco-Roman society, shedding new light on how cross-cultural engagement shaped Western civilization.You can learn more about "A Jew in the Roman Bathhouse" HERE:https://press.princeton.edu/books/hardcover/9780691243436/a-jew-in-the-roman-bathhouseThis discussion was hosted by Classical Wisdom. To learn more about Classical Wisdom and to subscribe to our free newsletter, please go to: https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/*** Please note, this was recorded in June 2023***

What's a day on one of the most exciting and famous archaeological sites in the world? Let's take a tour with the man running the show at the Athenian Agora.. Today's Classical Wisdom Speaks Podcast is with John K. Papadopoulos, Distinguished Professor of Archaeology & Classics, UCLA, and the newly appointed Director of the Athenian Agora Excavations.You can learn more about this exciting project here: https://www.ascsa.edu.gr/excavations/athenian-agoraThis Podcast is brought to you by Classical Wisdom, a site dedicated to bringing ancient wisdom to modern minds. You can now find us - along with our free newsletter at https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

Why are video games set in the ancient world? What are some of the major examples? How are women represented in these games? And why does this matter? I honestly know nothing about video games, with or without classical references. And yet, I enjoyed a fascinating conversation with Professors Cook and Draycott which revealed quite a lot about both the ancient world and the modern players who love it.So even if you are a complete video game neophyte, like yours truly, or well versed in this virtual world, please enjoy this Classical Wisdom Speaks Podcast with Professors Jane Draycott, Lecturer at the University of Glasgow, Scotland and Kate Cook, Associate Lecturer in Classics at the University of St Andrews, Scotland. They are also the editors of the recently released book published by Bloomsbury called “Women in Classical Video Games”, of which we will speak about today.You purchase Professors Draycott and Cook's book here: https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/women-in-classical-video-games-9781350241930/#You can learn more about Classical Wisdom and sign up for our free newsletter dedicated to bringing ancient wisdom to modern minds here: https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

From the Corporate to the Political - how can we find our modern values in ancient lessons? What if Plato ran Facebook? Or Socrates was in charge of Apple? Can you imagine Aristotle running Amazon or  General Motors? Today's Classical Wisdom Speaks' guest has thought of just that... and how these ancient thinkers can help with both the corporate and the political world today.... And maybe more importantly, how they can help us find shared values in our devise world.  Featuring Tom Morris, one of the world's top public philosophers and pioneering business thinkers. He is a legendary speaker whose electrifying talks reengage people around their deepest values and reignite their passion for work and life... as well as author of over 30 books, including “If Aristotle Ran General Motors”, and most recently,  “The Everyday Patriot: How to be a Great American."To learn more about Classical Wisdom and to sign up for our Free newsletter, please go to: https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/ You can purchase Tom's book, “The Everyday Patriot: How to be a Great American.", here: https://www.amazon.com/Everyday-Patriot-How-Great-American/dp/1737722712#

How did the ancient Egyptians handle war, plague and inequality? How did their unique geography shape their history? What was their community 'glue'? Today's Classical Wisdom Speaks podcast is with Dr. Kathlyn (Kara) Cooney. Professor of Egyptian Art and Architecture at UCLA, Kara Specializes in craft production, coffin studies, and economies in the ancient world. Cooney produced a comparative archaeology television series, entitled Out of Egypt, which aired in 2009 on the Discovery Channel and is available online via Netflix and Amazon.Please go to Classicalwisdom.substack.com to learn more about our work and to sign up for our Free newsletter. To read Kara Cooney's newsletter, you can also find her on substack at https://afterlives.substack.com/.

What is the role of philosophy in history? Do philosophers come up with ideas that spread and influence the world? Or are their works the cumulation of the advances of society? How do good ideas spread? And is this a time for optimism? Today's episode of Classical Wisdom Speaks is with Robert Tracinski, editor of Symposium, a journal of liberalism, author of the The Tracinski Letter (https://tracinskiletter.substack.com/) and a Senior fellow at the Atlas Society. We'll be looking at the relationship between philosophy and history, the "Thales Objection" and Robert's idea on the virtuous circle.Please check out https://Classicalwisdom.substack.com to sign up for our free newsletter - We are a reader supported publication and its our wonderful community that makes our site and this podcast possible.

 Vitaliy Katsenelson, a podcaster and expert on value investing, and the author of a recent book on Stoicism called Soul in the Game, discusses how Stoicism has influenced his perspective, his book and his investing. To learn more about Vitalyi's work,  please check his website: https://contrarianedge.com/You can learn more about Classical Wisdom and sign up for our free newsletter here: https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

The story of Medusa has captivated us for thousands of years, that of the beautiful woman turned into a monster... Why has this myth permeated culture so much... and why do we need to revisit this ancient tale?This week's Classical Wisdom Speaks Podcast is with Natalie Haynes, author of several books, including A Thousand Ships, which was a national bestseller and shortlisted for the 2020 Women's Prize for Fiction. Natalie is also a comedian as well as a broadcaster for the BBC. She has written for The Times, The Independent, The Guardian, and The Observer and today' we'll talk about her newest book, Stone Blind. You can purchase Stone Blind Here.Learn more about Classical Wisdom and sign up for our free newsletter here: https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/ 

Is the West in Decline? Is it the end of days or media hype? And what is the "West" anyways?In this episode of Classical Wisdom Speaks with Spencer Klavan, we discuss how ancient wisdom is necessary to solve modern crises, why ordinary people are the essential component to the solution and whether we can/should save the West. Spencer Klavan is a classicist with a Ph.D. from Oxford, and host of the Young Heretics podcast, as well as assistant editor of the Claremont Review of Books and The American Mind. He is also author of "Music in Ancient Greece: Melody, Rhythm", and Life as well as most recently "How to Save the West: Ancient Wisdom for 5 Modern Crises".You can buy Spencer's book (JUST OUT) here.Learn more Ancient Wisdom with Classical Wisdom. Check out our articles and Sign up for our free newsletter here: Https://classicalwisdom.substack.com

Whether you are planning a trip to Greece, if you've been and want to see if you got the 'must-see' spots, or you fancy some fun armchair travels, this Classical Wisdom Speaks podcast is a MUST LISTEN for ancient history lovers. Leading us through the archeological sites is veteran guide, Aristotle Koskinas. With 20 years in the field and hundreds of sites under his belt, Aristotle gives us the truly insiders guide on where to travel in Greece for the best ancient sites, hidden gems and even the unknown must sees. Get ready to explore Ancient Olympia, Naxos, Delphi and more... New to Classical Wisdom? Check out our website for our free newsletter and articles here: https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/You can follow Aristotle's work here: https://aristotelisguidegr.wordpress.com/

How do the major ancient Greek philosophies really compare? Are some more applicable to our modern lives than others? Today we'll try to step back and get the 'bigger' picture in our attempt to understand, analyze and compare the major ancient Greek philosophies... all in one podcast. Fortunately, we have none other than the very gifted and knowledgable Gregory Sadler, the President and co-Founder of  ReasonIO, Editor of Stoicism Today and Adjunct Professor in Philosophy and Humanities and the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design as well as Lecturer in Philosophy and Business Ethics, Carthage College.To learn more about Classical Wisdom Speaks and sign up for our free newsletter, please go to https://classicalwisdom.substack.com To learn more about Greg and his excellent projects, please go to: LinkedIn Profile | https://www.linkedin.com/in/reasonioPhilosophy videos | https://www.youtube.com/user/gbisadlerSadler's Lectures podcast | https://soundcloud.com/gregorybsadlerWisdom for Life radio show | https://www.riverwestradio.com/show/wisdom-for-life/Classical Wisdom Members can listen to the entire podcast with Greg Sadler on https://classicalwisdom.substack.com

What does the ancient Greek philosophy have to do with African Proverbs and the concept of Ubuntu? Perhaps in more ways than you may think... This week's Classical Wisdom Speaks episode is with Tiišetšo Maloma from South Africa, who is an Innovation Scholar, Product Creator, Entrepreneur and author of several books, including ‘Introducing Ubuntu Stoicism: Gain Joy, Resilience, Productivity, and Defuse Anxiety.'We'll be discussing linguistic roots, Individualism vs Collectivism as well as Proverbs & Philosophy... To learn more about Classical Wisdom Speaks and sign up for our free newsletter, please go to https://classicalwisdom.substack.com To purchase Tiišetšo Maloma's book,  ‘Introducing Ubuntu Stoicism: Gain Joy, Resilience, Productivity, and Defuse Anxiety', please go to here. 

How can we be more virtuous? Can we teach our children virtue? And what about politicians? Well, the latter is probably the most difficult, but continuing our current cycle of cynicism isn't exactly helping us out either... So what can we *actually* do to make a better society for ourselves... and for the next generation? Today's Classical Wisdom Speaks podcast is with Massimo Pigliucci, the K.D. Irani Professor of Philosophy at the City College of New York and author of many books, including "How to Be a Stoic: Using Ancient Philosophy to Live a Modern Life"... and most recently, “How to Be Good: What Socrates Can Teach Us About the Art of Living Well”To learn more about Classical Wisdom Speaks and sign up for our free newsletter, please go to https://classicalwisdom.substack.com To learn more about Massimo and his excellent books, please go to https://massimopigliucci.org/Classical Wisdom Members can listen to the entire podcast with Massimo Pigliucci on https://classicalwisdom.substack.com

Are you ready to take on a musical journey from the Patagonian Mountains that will immediately transport you to the ancient world? This is a podcast unlike any you have heard before... We know the importance of music in ancient Greece; the backdrop to every ceremony, festival and religious endeavor it also accompanied dinners, symposiums, and literature itself. Indeed, the plays and poems we love so dearly were all sung... But what did ancient music sound like? What instruments and melodies did they use? And how can we reconstruct these ancient sounds today? Today's Classical Wisdom Speaks podcast is with Argentine luthier and musician Alberto Magnin and Classical Wisdom's former editor, Kristin Deasy; they will take you on an investigation of ancient instruments that will deepen your cultural understanding of the ancient world, bringing sound to history.Best of all, Alberto and Kristin will perform ancient melodies on ancient instruments... immediately transporting you to another time and place. To learn more about Classical Wisdom Speaks, please go to https://classicalwisdom.substack.com You can find Alberto Magnin's music on: Sound Cloud - https://soundcloud.com/albertomagnin Apple music - https://music.apple.com/ar/artist/alberto-magnin/904106327Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/63Vv31lt7Bh3kIRUlEcWVC Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChNkl3qhlnjMhphWGyTNixw

How to Grieve: From Cicero and Stoicism to Modern practices, How Can Philosophy HELP US Handle Loss? Panel DiscussionIn 45 BCE, the Roman statesman Cicero fell to pieces when his beloved daughter, Tullia, died from complications of childbirth. But from the depths of despair, Cicero fought his way back. In an effort to cope with his loss, he wrote a consolation speech―not for others, as had always been done, but for himself. And it worked.Cicero's Consolation was something new in literature, equal parts philosophy and motivational speech. Drawing on the full range of Greek philosophy and Roman history, Cicero convinced himself that death and loss are part of life, and that if others have survived them, we can, too; resilience, endurance, and fortitude are the way forward.This panel discusses the revelations of Cicero's consolation and how they relate to both the ancient philosophy of Stoicism and modern behavioral cognitive therapy... all with the aim of finding a better understanding on how to grieve.Watch eminent professors and authors, Michael Fontaine, Massimo Pigliucci, and Donald Robertson for this thought-provoking, important conversation. About the Speakers:Michael Fontaine is Professor in the Department of Classics at Cornell University, New York and author of many books and articles, including: How to tell a Joke, The Pig War, How to Drink: A classical Guide to Imbibing, and most recently, How to Grieve: An Ancient Guide to the Lost Art of Consolation.Massimo Pigliucci is the K.D. Irani Professor of Philosophy at the City College of New York and author of many books, including How to Be a Stoic: Using Ancient Philosophy to Live a Modern Life... and most recently, How to Be Good: What Socrates Can Teach Us About the Art of Living Well. Donald Robertson is a writer, cognitive-behavioral psychotherapist and trainer, specializing in teaching evidence-based psychological skills and is the president of Plato's Academy Center.  Donald is the author of several books and many articles on philosophy, psychotherapy, and psychological skills training, including How to Think Like a Roman Emperor: The Stoic Philosophy of Marcus Aurelius, and his most recent project, Verissimus: The Stoic Philosophy of Marcus Aurelius, a graphic novel has just been released.Anya Leonard is the Founder and Director of Classical Wisdom, a site dedicated to bringing ancient wisdom to modern minds. Co-founded in 2013 with Bill Bonner, in conjunction with Les Belles Lettres, the French publishing house.  She has recently published a children's book, Sappho: The Lost Poetess, dedicated to the life, works and remarkable recent discovery of a poem written by the 7th century Poetess, Sappho.You can learn more about Classical Wisdom and our mission to bring ancient wisdom to modern minds here: https://classicalwisdom.substack.com/

From the highway killers confronted by the Greek hero Theseus, such as Procrustes, who tortured and mutilated their victims to the Sphinx, or “strangler,” from the story of Oedipus.. Or child-killing demons and witches and historical figures such as Locusta of Gaul, the most notorious poisoner in the early Roman Empire....Who are the serial killers of the ancient world? From the highway killers confronted by the Greek hero Theseus, such as Procrustes, who tortured and mutilated their victims to the Sphinx, or “strangler,” from the story of Oedipus.. Or child-killing demons and witches and historical figures such as Locusta of Gaul, the most notorious poisoner in the early Roman Empire....Who are the serial killers of the ancient world? Usually thought to be a more modern phenomenon, Dr. Debbie Felton makes the case that you can find these notorious murderers throughout ancient history and mythology alike. To learn more about Classical Wisdom Speaks, please go to https://classicalwisdom.substack.com Debbie Felton is the Professor of Classics and Undergraduate Program Director at UMass-Amherst. She is the author and editor of many books which focus on antiquity, folktales, the supernatural and the monstrous, but today we discuss her latest book, Monsters and Monarchs: Serial Killers in Classical Myth and History.Classical Wisdom Members can listen to the entire podcast with Professor Felton on Classical Wisdom.com. You can purchase Debbie's book, Monsters and Monarchs: Serial Killers in Classical Myth and History on amazon.com or https://utpress.utexas.edu/