Christians Reading Classics
Christians Reading Classics is a podcast about classic books being read through a distinctly Christian lens. Hosted by author and classicist, Nadya Williams, Christians Reading Classics introduces—or should we say—re-introduces listeners to classic works that have inspired generations. Interviewing experts who know these books well, the hope is to inspire listeners and awaken their imagination to God's world through literary, theological, and even children's works that have stood the test of time. Christians Reading Classics is a Mere Orthodoxy podcast. Find out more at mereorthodoxy.com
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Reading Ancient Pagans As Modern Christians
11/06/2025
Reading Ancient Pagans As Modern Christians
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.
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The Scandal of the Christian Imagination
10/30/2025
The Scandal of the Christian Imagination
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.
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T.S. Eliot - The Hollow Men with Eric Hutchinson
10/23/2025
T.S. Eliot - The Hollow Men with Eric Hutchinson
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
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C.S. Lewis - The Great Divorce with Dr. Leslie Baynes
10/16/2025
C.S. Lewis - The Great Divorce with Dr. Leslie Baynes
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
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Dorothy L. Sayers - Gaudy Night with Carolyn Weber
10/09/2025
Dorothy L. Sayers - Gaudy Night with Carolyn Weber
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
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Flannery O'Connor - A Good Man Is Hard To Find with Jon Parrish Peede
10/02/2025
Flannery O'Connor - A Good Man Is Hard To Find with Jon Parrish Peede
Nadya Williams and Jon Parrish Peede discuss the literary legacy of Flannery O'Connor, exploring her impact on American literature and the theological themes present in her work. They highlight the Southern Gothic genre, O'Connor's unique storytelling style, and the reader's engagement with her stories. It also touches on her reception over the years and personal reflections on her most significant works.
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Sinclair Lewis - It Couldn't Happen Here with Daniel K. Williams
09/25/2025
Sinclair Lewis - It Couldn't Happen Here with Daniel K. Williams
Nadya Williams and historian Daniel K. Williams examine Sinclair Lewis's 1935 novel "It Can't Happen Here," analyzing its treatment of democracy, authoritarianism, and religion's political role. Their discussion covers what qualifies a work as a literary classic, the historical circumstances surrounding Lewis's writing, and how his observations about democratic institutions' vulnerability and the manipulation of religious sentiment for political ends continue to resonate with contemporary American political debates and concerns about authoritarianism. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sinclair Lewis and His Work 02:54 Defining a Classic: What Makes Literature Enduring? 05:56 Sinclair Lewis: The Man Behind the Novels 11:44 Exploring the Themes of It Can't Happen Here 20:34 The Role of Religion in American Politics 28:29 Reflections on Mainstream America in the 1930s 31:56 The Spiritual Crisis Behind Authoritarianism 33:59 Literary Merits and Critiques of Sinclair Lewis 36:04 Public Reception and Political Context of the Novel 39:37 Huey Long and the Threat of Authoritarianism 43:00 Reading the Novel as Christians in 2025 47:06 The Attraction to Authoritarianism and Hyper Patriotism 50:20 Preserving Democracy: A Call for Self-Critical Patriotism 52:03I nfluential Classics and Historical Understanding
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The Heart of a Dog - Mikhail Bulgakov with Vika Pechersky
09/18/2025
The Heart of a Dog - Mikhail Bulgakov with Vika Pechersky
Nadya Williams and Vika Pichersky delve into Mikhail Bulgakov's 'Heart of a Dog,' exploring its themes, characters, and the critique of Soviet society. They discuss the nature of classics, the challenges of translation, and the moral questions raised by the transformation of a dog into a human. The conversation highlights the relevance of Bulgakov's work in contemporary discussions about humanity, morality, and the role of fiction in conveying complex truths. Chapters 00:00 Exploring the Context of Bulgakov's Work 02:37 Defining Literary Classics 05:34 Navigating Russian Literature in Translation 08:51 Understanding Heart of a Dog 11:38 Character Analysis and Themes in Heart of a Dog 17:34 The Role of Science and Morality 23:28 Bulgakov's Critique of Soviet Society 29:33 The Purpose of Fiction and Its Relevance Today Links Vika Pechersky, "" Vika Pechersky, "" Vika Pechersky, ""
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C. S. Lewis - That Hideous Strength with Philip D. Bunn and Ronni Kurtz
09/11/2025
C. S. Lewis - That Hideous Strength with Philip D. Bunn and Ronni Kurtz
Nadya Williams discusses C.S. Lewis's novel 'That Hideous Strength' with experts Philip Bunn and Ronni Kurtz. They explore the themes of the book, its place in Lewis's Space Trilogy, and the significance of literary classics. The theological implications of Lewis's work, character analysis, the role of academia, and the ethical considerations surrounding technology are discussed as well. The conversation highlights the relevance of Lewis's ideas in today's context, particularly regarding the nature of humanity and the purpose of fiction. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to C.S. Lewis and 'That Hideous Strength' 02:55 Defining a Classic: What Makes Literature Timeless? 05:55 Exploring C.S. Lewis's Space Trilogy: Themes and Structure 09:01 Theological Underpinnings in 'That Hideous Strength' 11:52 Character Dynamics: Mark and Jane's Journey 15:09 Academic Settings and Their Critique in Lewis's Work 17:59 Technology and Education: A Modern Reflection 21:07 The Dangers of AI and Its Philosophical Implications 24:08 Corruption of Thought: The Impact of Misrepresentation 27:09 Philosophical Questions: The NICE and Its Convictions 28:45 Exploring the NICE Mentality 31:28 The Role of Finitude in Humanity 34:18 Ransom: The Unremarkable Hero 40:09 C.S. Lewis: A Reflection of His Character 42:31 Resonance of Lewis's Work Today 48:40 The Purpose of Fiction 55:13 Classic Literature Aspirations
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Alexis de Tocqueville - Democracy in America with John Wilsey
09/04/2025
Alexis de Tocqueville - Democracy in America with John Wilsey
Nadia Williams speaks with church historian John Wilsey about Alexis de Tocqueville's "Democracy in America," marking its 190th anniversary. They explore what makes this political work a classic, Tocqueville's aristocratic background and surprising observations about American equality, religion's central role in preserving democratic freedom, and why American conservatives should appreciate his insights about the balance between individual liberty and community responsibility. Chapters 0:00 - What Makes a Classic 7:30 - Tocqueville's Aristocratic Background 23:17 - The Prison Reform Pretext 26:16 - Structure of Democracy in America 39:56 - Religion's Surprising Role in Democracy 55:24 - The Book's Reception Then and Now 57:53 - Why Conservatives Should Read Tocqueville 1:06:19 - Freedom Requires Responsibility 1:09:20 - The Book John Wishes He'd Written Links 1. John D. Wilsey's of Democracy in America 2. George Wilson Pierson, 3. Gustave de Beaumont, 4. Year-long on Democracy in America 5. Robert Tracy McKenzie, 6. This podcast is based on --it is the Liberty Fund edition translated by James T. Schleifer and edited by Eduardo Nolla. 7. John D. Wilsey,
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The Nicene Creed with Shawn Wilhite and Coleman Ford
08/28/2025
The Nicene Creed with Shawn Wilhite and Coleman Ford
Nadya Williams talks with theologians Coleman Ford and Shawn Wilhite about the Nicene Creed, marking its 1700th anniversary. They explore what makes a theological work a “classic,” the historical background of the Council of Nicaea, the meaning of key Christological terms, and how to “think Nicenely” in the Christian life. The discussion blends history, theology, and practical discipleship, showing how the Creed shapes Christian identity and worship. Chapters 00:04 – Introduction and Reading of the Nicene Creed 02:18 – Guests’ Backgrounds and Book Collaboration 02:57 – What Makes a Theological Classic? 07:19 – Defining the Work of Theologians as “Doctors of the Soul” 17:18 – Historical Background of the Council of Nicaea 22:47 – Why the Debate over Christ’s Relationship to the Father Mattered 28:21 – Constantine’s Role and Political Context 32:23 – Structure of the Creed and Differences Between 325 and 381 Versions 38:25 – Christology in the Creed: Begottenness, Substance, and “Light from Light” 49:50 – Visual Imagery and Theological Language 54:32 – Thinking “Nicenely” and Why It Matters Today 01:00:18 – Writing Together as Friends 01:04:21 – Classics the Guests Wish They Had Written Links Coleman Ford and Shawn Wilhite, Coleman Ford and Shawn Wilhite,
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J.R.R. Tolkien - The Return of the King with Kirsten Sanders
08/21/2025
J.R.R. Tolkien - The Return of the King with Kirsten Sanders
Nadya Williams talks with theologian Kirsten Sanders about J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Return of the King, exploring its vision of good and evil, the tragic imagination, and the “faith of hobbits.” They discuss why classics endure, the theological depth of Tolkien’s world, the moral resonance of small acts of faithfulness, and the book’s bittersweet ending. Chapters 00:03 – Tolkien’s life, The Hobbit, and the birth of The Lord of the Rings 02:44 – What makes a book a classic? 05:19 – A reluctant Tolkien reader finds unexpected resonance 10:53 – The quest, the ring, and the nature of evil 14:11 – Evil’s hunger and the metaphors of light and darkness 17:56 – Frodo’s smallness and the anthropology of humble creatures 20:49 – The tragic tone of The Return of the King 23:02 – Denethor’s despair and Gandalf’s call to do good 28:30 – The faith of hobbits and resisting nihilism 30:38 – Tolkien’s gift for character and detail 31:42 – Gandalf, Tom Bombadil, and the mystery of the unaffected 34:27 – Elves, tradition, and the long memory of history 36:46 – Everything is theological: why the story works 39:03 – Sanders’ current and future book projects 41:21 – The faith of hobbits in daily life 42:40 – The power of tangible care and the visible good 44:06 – The devastating beauty of Kristin Lavransdatter 44:59 – Rethinking feminist novels and facing “big books” Links Kirsten Sanders, "" Jake Meador, "" Holly Ordway, ""
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Lewis Carroll - Alice in Wonderland with John Shelton
08/12/2025
Lewis Carroll - Alice in Wonderland with John Shelton
Nadya Williams and guest John Shelton explore Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland on its 160th anniversary. They discuss what makes a book a “classic,” the balance between whimsy and seriousness, Carroll’s satirical brilliance, and the enduring cultural impact of Alice. The conversation highlights themes of logic, absurdity, moral imagination, and the shaping of children’s literature. Chapters 00:03 – Introduction to Lewis Carroll and Alice’s enduring appeal 03:00 – What makes a literary work a “classic”? 06:16 – Why Alice’s humor still works 07:43 – Iconic phrases and cultural influence 09:19 – Whimsy as serious work 11:42 – The sacredness of delight 13:38 – Influence on later works and pop culture 14:58 – The importance of the written form and illustrations 24:30 – The challenge of adapting Alice to other media 25:08 – Children’s classics and parental reading traditions 27:27 – Violence, absurdity, and what’s “too scary” for kids 31:16 – The rise of children’s literature in Carroll’s time 36:49 – Logic, madness, and education 37:18 – Carroll’s faith and the spiritual dimension of whimsy 39:14 – The purpose of children’s literature 41:20 – Selecting books for children and moral lessons from stories 45:13 – Learning the right use of force and justice 46:34 – Recognizing and mocking true absurdity 50:27 – Subtle moral norms in Alice 52:17 – Books the guest wishes he had written 54:56 – The relational nature of children’s books 57:27 – Stories as moral frameworks for life Links John Shelton, " Tara Thieke, "" Lewis Carroll,
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Laura Ingalls Wilder - Little House on the Prairie with John Fry and LuElla D'Amico
08/12/2025
Laura Ingalls Wilder - Little House on the Prairie with John Fry and LuElla D'Amico
In this episode of Christians Reading Classics, Nadya Williams talks with historian John Fry and children’s literature scholar LuElla D’Amico about Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Little House on the Prairie. They explore what makes a children’s book a classic, Wilder’s life and historical context, the collaboration with her daughter Rose, and the enduring moral and cultural resonance of the series. The conversation touches on themes of virtue, nostalgia, cross-cultural appeal, and the complexities of reading historical works through modern eyes. Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Little House on the Prairie and Guests 02:18 – What Makes a Classic in Children’s Literature? 07:54 – Personal Connections to the Little House Books 12:02 – Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Life and Historical Context 22:02 – Story Overview and Thematic Highlights 31:38 – Advice for First-Time Readers 37:17 – Why Wilder Wrote the Books and the Role of Rose Wilder Lane 48:32 – Wilder’s Faith and Its Influence in the Series 52:02 – Reading with a Theological Imagination 55:19 – Closing Thoughts and Books the Guests Wish They Had Written Links John Fry, LuElla D'Amico, "" LuElla D'Amico, ""
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Ignazio Silone - Bread and Wine with Geoffrey Kurtz
08/12/2025
Ignazio Silone - Bread and Wine with Geoffrey Kurtz
Nadya Williams talks with Geoffrey Kurtz about Ignazio Silone’s Bread and Wine, exploring its political, spiritual, and literary significance. They discuss what makes a classic, Silone’s shift from communism to a more open-ended moral vision, the novel’s blend of politics and clandestine faith, and the transformation of its protagonist, Pietro Spina, through solitude and friendship. Chapters 00:02 – Silone’s author’s note and the idea of rewriting one’s “soul book” 02:29 – Defining a classic: resonance across time and place 04:24 – Silone’s life, politics, and exile 08:54 – From political collapse to becoming a novelist 11:00 – The 1936 and 1955 editions: from didactic to subtle 13:13 – Setting and premise of Bread and Wine 14:35 – Disguise, solitude, and unexpected friendships 17:45 – Growth in character and writing craft 18:10 – How much is Spina autobiographical? 21:51 – Political and religious dimensions rooted in the same moral impulse 24:53 – Don Benedetto as a bridge between action and contemplation 29:33 – God’s clandestine presence in the novel 31:08 – Solitude as the seed of transformation 35:48 – Loneliness, community, and the longing for safe relationships 36:30 – Reception in Italy, the U.S., and among leftists and Catholics 43:50 – Politics bounded by love and human dignity 47:26 – Kurtz’s intellectual journey and democratic socialism 50:55 – On “democratic socialist” vs. “social democrat” 51:38 – Current reading: Wendell Berry and parallels to Silone 54:21 – A classic Kurtz wishes he’d written Links Geoffrey Kurtz, "" Geoffrey Kurtz,
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A. A. Milne - Winnie the Pooh with Ivana D. Greco and Dixie Dillon Lane
08/12/2025
A. A. Milne - Winnie the Pooh with Ivana D. Greco and Dixie Dillon Lane
Nadya Williams is joined by Ivana Greco and Dixie Dillon-Lane to explore Winnie-the-Pooh as a children’s classic. They discuss what makes a book timeless, how Milne’s humor and characterization capture the child’s mind, the role of family lore and shared cultural touchstones, and how to navigate classics that don’t click with every child. Chapters 00:03 – Origins of Winnie-the-Pooh and its enduring appeal 03:19 – Defining a “classic” in children’s literature 07:11 – Story plots, character development, and the child’s perspective 09:16 – Humor, literal thinking, and being “in on the joke” 13:10 – Power dynamics, Christopher Robin, and imaginative escape 15:32 – Re-reading classics through different life stages 17:05 – Songs, riddles, and the child’s interior life 21:25 – The instinctive music of childhood 24:55 – Character archetypes: Eeyore, Tigger, and self-recognition 29:46 – Literary touchstones in family culture 33:43 – When classics don’t click with your kids 41:22 – Encouraging literacy in homeschooling 47:12 – Adapting teaching methods to your child and yourself 49:51 – Avoiding power struggles in reading instruction 54:20 – Recognizing slow, steady progress 58:00 – Classics the guests wish they had written 01:07:18 – Books that become part of who we are Links Alexander Lenard, (the Latin translation) Ivana D. Greco, "" Dixie Dillon Lane, ""
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G.K. Chesterton - The Everlasting Man with Timothy Larsen
08/12/2025
G.K. Chesterton - The Everlasting Man with Timothy Larsen
Nadya Williams interviews Dr. Timothy Larsen on G.K. Chesterton’s The Everlasting Man, exploring its enduring insights on humanity, Christ, and the joy of Christian apologetics. They discuss what makes a “classic,” Chesterton’s playful paradoxes, his cultural context after WWI, and how to approach the book today. Key Idea: Chesterton re-narrates the human story and the gospel with wit, joy, and surprise, inviting readers to see faith anew. Chapters: 00:00 – Chesterton’s Introduction: Seeing Home for the First Time 02:20 – What Makes a Classic Book? 05:15 – Chesterton’s Life and Many Roles 07:30 – Why The Everlasting Man Was Written 10:05 – Part One: The Creature Called Man 12:30 – Part Two: The Man Called Christ 14:40 – Paradox and Wit in Apologetics 19:00 – Chesterton as an “Earthy” Christian 21:30 – Reception and Legacy 26:30 – Advice for First-Time Readers 29:40 – Larsen’s Upcoming Book on WWI Clergy 33:15 – The Classic Larsen Wishes He’d Written 35:20 – Nadia’s Choice of a Classic Links: Timothy Larsen, " Timothy Larsen, " Forthcoming book:
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Introducing: Christians Reading Classics
07/24/2025
Introducing: Christians Reading Classics
Welcome to Christians Reading Classics! A new podcast hosted Nadya Williams. In this introductory episode, you'll learn what this podcast is all about and what you can look forward to. If you love classic books, or are even interested in learning more about them, you're in the right place.
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