Classical Et Cetera

Why Classical Education Works—and Modern Education Often Doesn’t

Modern education often promises freedom and creativity—but does it deliver? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, we take a closer look at why traditional classrooms, rooted in order, routine, and content, may serve students far better. The team unpacks how classical methods form not just minds, but souls—cultivating discipline, genuine learning, and even joy. Along the way, we discuss classroom structure, educational goals, and what students truly need to flourish. If you've ever questioned what education is for, this conversation offers clarity, insight, and a compelling case for going back to basics.
 
*What We're Reading* from This Episode: 
_American Pharoah_—Joe Drape (Paul)  
_The Schools We Need: And Why We Don't Have Them_—E.D. Hirsch Jr. (Martin)
_Die Trying_—Jack Reacher (Martin)
_Slaughterhouse-Five_—Kurt Vonnegut (Jeremy)  

Modern Art vs Classical Art: What Students Should Really Learn

What role should art play in a classical education—and how do we teach it well? In this episode, Kyle Janke, author of _A Classical History of Art_ , joins the team to explore the visual arts—sculpture, architecture, and painting—through the lens of Western art history. From the ancient world to the Renaissance, they trace a broad Western art history timeline and discuss how engaging with great art forms students' hearts as well as minds.
 
The conversation covers teaching art history, how to evaluate beauty, and why classical art still matters in a modern world. You'll hear reflections on personal encounters with art, the distinction between modern art vs. classical art, and practical tips for teachers and parents alike. Whether you're new to art history or a longtime fan of classical education, this episode will deepen your appreciation for the Good, the True, and the Beautiful.
 
*What We're Reading* from This Episode: 
_Mythology_—Edith Hamilton (Martin)
_Huckleberry Finn_—Mark Twain (Tanya)  
_James_—Percival Everett (Tanya)  
_The River War_—Winston S. Churchill (Kyle)  
_The Samurai_—Shusaku Endo (Kyle)  

Who Are YOU To Define Classical Education? Memoria Press Mailbag!

What is classical education, really—and who gets to define it? In this special mailbag episode of Classical Et Cetera, we answer questions straight from our listeners. From homeschooling logistics to the purpose of teaching Greek mythology, from philosophy to pedagogy, no topic is off-limits! Whether you're deep in the trenches of classical education or just curious about the movement, join us as we tackle your burning questions.
 
*What We're Reading* from This Episode: 
_Passing the Torch_—Louis Marcus (Martin)
_Mythology_—Edith Hamilton (Martin)
_The Believers_—Janice Holt Giles— (Paul)  
_Mr. Midshipman Hornblower_—C.S. Forester— (Paul) 
_My Friends_—Fredrick Backman (Tanya)  
_Huckleberry Finn_—Mark Twain (Tanya) 

What Classical Education REALLY Means — Traditional, Progressive, Neoclassical & More

What do people _really_ mean when they say "classical," "traditional," or "progressive" education? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, we break down the most common terms in the world of classical education. From classical and neoclassical to traditional, vocational, and progressive models, we explore where these ideas come from, how they’re used today, and why definitions matter.
 
Whether you’re new to classical education or trying to explain it to others, this episode will help you clarify your terms, understand key differences, and see why classical education is more than just a label.
 
Get _A Defence of Classical Education_ from our website: https://www.memoriapress.com/curriculum/mp/a-defence-of-classical-education/?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=173
 
Read an article from Martin about the definition of Classical Education: https://www.memoriapress.com/articles/what-classical-education-1/?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=173
 
"Definitions" 
*What We're Reading* from This Episode: 
_Independent People_—Halldor Laxness— (Paul)  
_You Are What You Love_—James K.A. Smith (Tanya)  
_Mystery Novel_—Georgette Heyer (Tanya) 
_Passing the Torch_—Louis Marcus (Martin)
_The Medieval Mind of C.S. Lewis_—Jason M. Baxter (Martin) 

Why Characters Like Jane Eyre and Frodo Still Inspire Us

What is fortitude—and why does it matter in literature and life? In this episode, the we explore the virtue of fortitude through the lens of beloved characters like Jane Eyre, Bilbo Baggins, Aragorn, and Hester Prynne. From the quiet strength of the hobbits to the moral resolve of Jane Eyre, we unpack how true fortitude blends courage, patience, endurance, and moral integrity. If you’ve ever wondered what makes a character truly heroic, or how virtue is taught through great books, this episode is for you.
 
Want to read the books we discussed?
 
Explore moral courage with the Jane Eyre Set (9th Grade):
https://www.memoriapress.com/curriculum/literature-and-poetry/ninth/jane-eyre-set/?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=172
 
Discover quiet strength in the The Hobbit Set (6th Grade):
https://www.memoriapress.com/curriculum/literature-and-poetry/sixth/the-hobbit-set/?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=172
 
Witness unwavering strength in the face of shame and suffering in the The Scarlet Letter Set (9th Grade):
https://www.memoriapress.com/curriculum/literature-and-poetry/ninth/scarlet-letter-set/?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=172

How to Teach Classical Education: Socratic Teaching, Coaching, and Beyond!

How should we teach classical education? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, we dive into the real work of teaching—exploring what it means to guide students through knowledge, skills, and the deeper understanding of ideas and values. Drawing on insights from Mortimer Adler and others, we examine the Socratic method, the role of coaching in skill development, and why no single approach is enough. From didactic instruction to Socratic dialogue, we share a practical and philosophical framework for teaching that meets students where they are—and takes them further. Join the conversation about how classical teaching really works!
 
Read Martin's article _How to Teach_ right here: https://www.memoriapress.com/articles/how-to-teach-mortimer-adlers-three-pillars-revised/?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=171
 
And shop our complete line of Classical Christian Curriculum! https://www.memoriapress.com/curriculum/?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=171  
 
*What We're Reading* from This Episode: 
_The Name of the Rose_—Umberto Eco (Paul)
_No Country for Old Men_—Cormac McCarthy (Paul)
_The Island of Sea Women_—Lisa See (Jessica)   
_Bloomsbury Girls_—Natalie Jenner (Tanya) 
_Hamlet_—William Shakespeare (Martin)

Tradition, Ceremony, and Graduation: Why They Still Matter for Your School

What role do ceremonies and traditions play in shaping school culture? From graduations to recitation days, we explore how formal rituals create meaning, build community, and reinforce the seriousness of education—whether in a classical school or homeschool. These timeless practices remind us: some things deserve to be set apart.
 
Read more about our founder's view on _gravitas_ right here: https://www.memoriapress.com/articles/gravitas-the-lost-art-of-taking-school-seriously/?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=170
 
And shop our complete line of Classical Christian Curriculum! https://www.memoriapress.com/curriculum/?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=170 
*What We're Reading* from This Episode: 
_The Name of the Rose_—Umberto Eco (Tanya)  
_Bloomsbury Girls_—Natalie Jenner (Tanya)  
_G.K. Chesterton: The Autobiography of G.K. Chesterton_—G.K. Chesterton (Kathy) 
_The Island of Sea Women_—Lisa See (Jessica)
_Carnegie's Maid_—Marie Benedict (Jessica)  

Classical Education for Adults: Book List & Reading Recommendations

Where should adults start with classical education? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, we share our top book recommendations for anyone looking to begin their journey into the world of classical learning. Whether you're new to the classics or returning with fresh eyes, these books will help you understand what classical education is, why it matters, and how to dive in. From timeless works to essential guides, we explore where to start, what to read, and how to keep going. Join the conversation in this podcast episode—and check out our classic book lists below!
The Great Books, Books About Classical Education, and Books For Classical Educators: https://www.memoriapress.com/wp-content/uploads/The-Recovery-of-Real-Education.pdf?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=169 Memoria Press Literature Curriculum: https://www.memoriapress.com/wp-content/uploads/HLS-Teacher-Reading-Survey.pdf?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=169 Martin's Essential Boys Books: https://www.memoriapress.com/martins-essential-boys-books-list/?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=169 Martin's Essential Girls Books:https://www.memoriapress.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Essential-Girls-Books-List_ProofedByEllen.pdf?utm_source=PodBean&utm_medium=CETC&utm_campaign=169
 
*What We're Reading* from This Episode: 
_The Collected Short Stories of Louis L'Amour_—Louis L'Amour (Paul) 
_The Name of the Rose_—Umberto Eco (Tanya)  
_On Close Reading_—John Guillory (Martin)