The Classic English Literature Podcast

Why Think About Literature?

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August 04, 2022 4:00pm

13m

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Our first Subcast episode!  I know it seems early, but I thought it important to put this out there as soon as possible: sort of justify the podcast's existence. . . .

Students often ask me: "Why do we have to learn this stuff?"  It's a fair question.  To many, it seems useless: reading novels and poetry won't help you be a better engineer or physician's assistant, won't keep you fit -- in fact, one can lead a beautiful life and never have read a sonnet.  So why study it?

Oscar Wilde said that a "work of art is useless as a flower is useless."  I love that: something may be useless without being worthless.  This episode is my reply to students who look for a connection between literature and life.

Music: "Rejoice" (G.F. Handel) perf.  Advent Chamber Orchestra

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Podcast Theme Music: "Rejoice" by G.F. Handel, perf. The Advent Chamber Orchestra
Subcast Theme Music: "Sons of the Brave" by Thomas Bidgood, perf. The Band of the Irish Guards
Sound effects and incidental music: Freesounds.org
My thanks and appreciation to all the generous providers!