Ascend - The Great Books Podcast
Ascend is a weekly Great Books podcast hosted by Deacon Harrison Garlick and Adam Minihan. It explores the most impactful texts that have shaped Western civilization, from ancient authors like Homer and Plato to modern thinkers like Machiavelli and Nietzsche, all within the light of the Catholic intellectual tradition. The show aims to help listeners reclaim their intellect by understanding the origins of ideas that shape our world. It is designed for first-time readers, working through texts chronologically in a slow, attentive manner.
Episodes
The Odyssey Books 13-14 with Dr. Alex Petkas and Dr. Grabowski
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Deacon Harrison Garlick is joined by Dr. Frank Grabowski and Dr. Alex Petkas (host of the Cost of Glory) for a rich discussion of Odyssey Books 13 and 14. Check out all our resources on the great books!Check out the Cost of Glory!Check our the Porch and Altar, Dr. Grabowski's Substack.Odysseus finally reaches Ithaca—sleeping peacefully through the voyage a
The Odyssey Books 11-12 with Luke Heintschel and Dr. Grabowski
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Harrison Garlick discusses Books 11-12 of the Odyssey with Dr. Frank Grabowski and Mr. Luke Heintschel, the Academic Headmaster of Coeur du Christ Academy.Check out Ascend's LIBRARY of written guides and SOCIAL MEDIA. Check out Luke's Substack at CoCrucified and Dr. Grabowski's at Porch & Altar.SummaryListeners are taken on Odysseus’ harrowing kat
The Odyssey Books 9-10 with Dr. Gregory McBrayer
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Harrison Garlick and the Dr. Gregory McBrayer discuss Books 9-10 of the Odyssey--the first half of Odysseus telling his own story and covering such famous narratives as the lotus eaters, the cyclops, and Circe. Check out our WRITTEN GUIDE to the Odyssey--great for small groups!Follow us on X, YouTube, Instagram, and more!SummaryBooks 9 and 10 of the O
The Odyssey Books 6-8 with Dr. Frank Grabowski
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Harrison Garlick and Dr. Frank Grabowski discussing Books 6-8 of the Odyssey discussing Odysseus' time with the Phaeacians.Check our our WRITTEN GUIDE to the Odyssey.10 Reasons to Read the Odyssey (The Ascent)Why Odysseus Refused to Become a God (The Ascent)Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Odyssey and the Phaeacians10:45 The Nature of the Phaeacians1
The Odyssey Book 5 with Dr. Glenn Arbery and Dr. Frank Grabowski
Odysseus rejects becoming a god... why?Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Harrison Garlick is joined by Dr. Glenn Arbery of Wyoming Catholic College and Dr. Frank Grabowski of Holy Family Classical School to discuss BOOK FIVE of the Odyssey--arguably one of the important passages in the entire Odyssey and in the Western canon.Check out Ascend on X, Facebook, Instagram, and Patreon.Chec
The Odyssey Books 2-4 with Dr. Frank Grabowski
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Harrison Garlick and Dr. Frank Grabowski discuss the famous "Telemachy" or the coming of age story of Telemachus, Books 2-4 of the Odyssey.Check us our on X, Instagram, Facebook, and more!Check out our WRITTEN GUIDE to the Odyssey.In this rich second episode of our 12-week Odyssey series, Dcn. Harrison Garlick and Dr. Frank Grabowski dive deep into Bo
The Odyssey Book 1 with Dr. Papadopoulos and Dr. Grabowski
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Harrison Garlick is joined by Dr. Pavlos Papadopoulos of Wyoming Catholic College and Dr. Frank Grabowski of Holy Family Classical School to discuss BOOK ONE of the Odyssey--one of the greatest texts in the Western canon.Check out our NEW 12-WEEK STUDY OF THE ODYSSEY.Follow Ascend on X, Youtube, Facebook, Instagram, and more!Be sure to use our WRITTEN
Intro to the Odyssey with Dr. Patrick Deneen and Dr. Chad Pecknold (2024)
For the first time since 2023, Ascend is reposting an episode--our introduction to the Odyssey with Dr. Patrick Deneen (6.25.2024) in anticipation of our NEW 12-WEEK STUDY of the Odyssey starting next week!We start BOOK ONE OF THE ODYSSEY next week!Check us out on X, Facebook, Instagram, and more!In this special introduction to Homer’s Odyssey, Deacon Harrison Garlick is joined by three distinguis
The Spiritual Harm of Lying
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Deacon Harrison Garlick explores one of the most striking features of Dante’s Inferno: why the poet places liars, flatterers, and the treacherous in the lowest circles of Hell — deeper than murderers, tyrants, suicides, and even blasphemers.Check out our new INSTAGRAM page!Visit THE ASCENT, our sister publication on Substack.We are reading the Odyssey over
Discover the Hidden Meaning of Narnia's Endless Winter
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Harrison Garlick takes a popular article from The Ascent, a top 100 substack in faith and spirituality, and does a deep dive on CS Lewis, Dante, and the problem of evil (theodicy). Check out THE ASCENT - a top 100 Substack on Christianity spirituality.Check out "The Hidden Meaning of Narnia's Endless Winter" Substack article.Check out the NEW Instagra
Purgatorio: Beatrice (Cantos 32-33) with Joshua Charles and Dr. Frank Grabowski
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Harrison discusses the last two cantos of the Purgatorio (32-33) with Joshua Charles of Eternal Christendom and Dr. Frank Grabowski of Holy Family Classical School. We are reading the ODYSSEY NEXT! Check out our 12-week schedule.See our collection of written guides to the great books!Check out Joshua Charles' Eternal Christendom.Check out Holy Family
Purgatorio: The Earthly Paradise (Cantos 28-31) with Dr. Michael West
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Harrison Garlick and Dr. Michael West discuss the top of Mount Purgatory: The Earthly Paradise (Cantos 28-31). Check out our WRITTEN GUIDE to the Purgatorio.Check Ascend out on X, Facebook, Youtube, and More!They explore the serene, uncultivated garden where Dante encounters the mysterious Matilda picking flowers, the two rivers (Lethe, which erases t
Purgatorio: Gluttony and Lust (Cantos 23-27) with Fr. Patrick Briscoe, OP
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Harrison Garlick and Fr. Patrick Biscoe, OP, discuss gluttony and lust in Dante's Purgatorio, Cantos 23-27.Check out thegreatbookspodcast.com for more information.Check out our LIBRARY OF WRITTEN GUIDES for the great books.Check out the Dominicans, the Order of Preachers.Check out Fr. Patrick Briscoe, OP, at Godsplaining Podcast.In this episode of Asc
Purgatorio: Acedia and Avarice (Cantos 18-22) with Dr. Sarah Berry
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Harrison Garlick and Dr. Sarah Berry of the University of Dallas discuss Acedia, Avarice, and part of Gluttony in Cantos 18-22 of the Purgatorio.Visit thegreatbookspodcast.com for more information!Check out our GUIDE to the Purgatorio!Dr. Sarah Berry joins Deacon Harrison Garlick to explore Cantos 18–22, covering the terrace of sloth (acedia) and the
Purgatorio: Envy and Wrath (Cantos 13-17) with Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Harrison Garlick and Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson of Pepperdine University discuss cantos 13-17 of Dante's Purgatorio--the purging of envy and wrath. Check out our 51 question and answer guide (35 pages!) to the Purgatorio. Check out our YOUTUBE page which has our episodes in playlists!Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson joins Deacon Harrison Garlick to discuss Ca
Purgatorio: Ante-Purgatory and the Terrace on Pride (Cantos 6-12) with Mr. Luke Heintschel
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Deacon Garlick and Mr. Luke Heintschel, headmaster of Coeur du Christ Academy, discuss the rest of ante-purgatory and then the first terrace--the purging of pride.Check out our GUIDE: 51 QUESTIONS ON THE PURGATORIO.Visit thegreatbookspodcast.com for more information.The conversation explores the transition from Ante-Purgatory into the proper mountain of Pu
Purgatorio: Ante-Purgatory Cantos 1-5 with Dr. Donald Prudlo
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Harrison Garlick and Dr. Donald Prudlo, the Warren Chair of Catholic Studies at the University of Tulsa, discuss the Ante-Purgatory, the foot of Mount Purgatory (Cantos 1-5).Check out our guide on Dante's Purgatorio (out soon!)Visit Dr. Jason Baxter's website and use "Ascend" in the promo code for 20% off his Purgatorio audiobook.Thanks for the Center
Introduction to Dante's Purgatorio with Dr. Jason Baxter
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dr. Jason Baxter and Dcn. Harrison Garlick come together to introduce Dante's Purgatorio and Dr. Baxter's new translation!We are reading Dante's Purgatorio for Lent. Join us!Visit thegreatbookspodcast.com for our reading schedule!Check out our LIBRARY of written guides to the great books!DISCOUNT: Check out Dr. Jason Baxter's website and enter "Ascend" to
Q&A on Sir Gawain and the Green Knight with Dr. Justin Jackson
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Deacon Harrison Garlick and Dr. Justin Jackson host a Q&A on Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. They explore major themes such as the role of femininity, the moral dilemmas faced by Gawain, and the significance of the girdle. Visit thegreatbookspodcast.com for our reading schedule!Check out our episodes on Sir Gawain and the Green Knight and our study gu
Platonic Thought in St. Thomas Aquinas with Dr. Donald Prudlo
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Deacon Harrison Garlick and Dr. Donald Prudlo explore the intricate relationship between Plato and St. Thomas Aquinas, examining how Aquinas's thought is influenced by Platonic philosophy while also being rooted in Aristotle. We are reading the PURGATORIO for Lent!Check out our LIBRARY OF GUIDES TO THE GREAT BOOKS.See Dr. Prudlo's books on St. Thomas, admi
Plato's Influence on St. Boethius with Dr. Thomas Ward
In this episode of the Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Deacon Harrison Garlick engages in a profound discussion with Dr. Thomas Ward from Baylor University about Plato's influence on St. Boethius. The conversation begins with an exploration of Boethius's life, particularly his role as a Roman statesman and philosopher during a tumultuous time in history. Dr. Ward highlights St. Boethius's seminal
Plato and St. Augustine with Dr. Chad Pecknold
How did Plato influence St. Augustine? Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Harrison Garlick and Dr. Chad Pecknold of the Catholic University of America discuss Plato's influence on St. Augustine.Check out our account on X for daily postings on the great books!Check out our library of written guides to the great books!Check out FIRE ON THE ALTAR by Dr. Chad Pecknold.The discussion begins
Why Christians Should Read the Pagans with Alec Bianco and Sean Berube
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, host Dcn. Harrison Garlick, along with guests Alec Bianco and Sean Berube, explore St. Basil the Great’s letter To Young Men, on the Right Use of Greek Literature, passionately arguing that Christians—especially young men—should actively read pagan classics like Homer, Plato, and Hesiod. Check out thegreatbookspodcast.comCheck out our LIBRARY OF WRITTEN GU
Sir Gawain and the Green Knight Fitt 4 with Chivalry Guild and Banished Kent
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast concludes their Christmas reading of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight with Fitt 4, exploring Gawain’s restored armor, journey to the eerie Green Chapel, the three axe swings, Bertilak’s revelations, Morgan le Fay’s role, and the court’s final response.Visit our WEBSITE for our reading schedule and more!Check out our 50 QUESTION AND ANSWER GUIDE to Sir Gawai
Sir Gawain and the Green Knight Fitts 2 and 3 with Dr. Tiffany Schubert
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Harrison Garlick, Dr. Tiffany Schubert of Wyoming Catholic College, George of the Chivalry Guild, and Banished Kent discuss Fitts 2 and 3 of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight!Visit thegreatbookspodcast.com for our reading schedule!Check out our 50 QUESTION-AND-ANSWER GUIDE to Sir Gawain and the Green Knight.Be sure to visit our sister publication, THE A
Sir Gawain and the Green Knight Fitt 1 with Dr. Justin Jackson
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, we are discussing Fitt 1 of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight with Dcn. Garlick, Dr. Justin Jackson of Hillsdale College, Chivalry Guild, and Banished Kent.Check out thegreatbookspodcast.com for our reading schedule.Check out our WRITTEN GUIDE to Sir Gawain and the Greek Knight (posted soon!).Episode SummaryThe panel dives into the 14th-century Middle Englis
Plato and Education: The Teacher as a Lover of the Soul
Today on Ascend, we discuss Plato, education, the role of the teacher, eros, beauty, and much more drawing from the dialogues First Alcibiades and the Meno. Returning to the podcast, we have Dcn. Garlick, Dr. Frank Grabowski, Dr. Brett Larson, and Thomas Lackey.Visit thegreatbookspodcast.com for our reading schedule.Visit our LIBRARY OF WRITTEN GUIDES to help you read the great books. What does it
Grace and the Grotesque: The Lame Shall Enter First by Flannery O'Connor with Dr. Brian Kemple
In this episode of Ascend, Deacon Harrison Garlick and Dr. Brian Kemple discuss the violent, grotesque southern tale "The Lame Shall Enter First" by Flannery O'Connor.Visit thegreatbookspodcast.com for our reading schedule!Check out our LIBRARY of written guides to the great books.Check out the Lyceum Institute.They explore O'Connor's life, her unique Southern Gothic style, and the themes of faith
Law of Nature: Part Three of Plato's Gorgias with Dr. Gregory McBrayer
In the incredible final act of Plato’s Gorgias (481–527), Dcn. Harrison Garlick and Dr. Greg McBrayer (Ashland University, New Thinkery podcast) tackle the longest and most brutal confrontation: Socrates versus Callicles, the most shameless, most ambitious, and—as Greg insists—nastiest character in all of Plato. Visit thegreatbookspodcast.com for our read schedule!Check out our COLLECTION OF GUIDE
Tyranny v Philosophy: Part Two of Plato's Gorgias with Dr. Matthew Bianco
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Harrison Garlick and Dr. Matthew Bianco of the Circe Institute discuss the second part of Plato's Gorgias--the dialogue between Socrates and Polus—Gorgias’ spirited, “colt-like” student who bursts in at 461b accusing his own teacher of being “too ashamed” to admit rhetoric needs no justice, only the power to persuade. Visit thegreatbookspodcast.com fo
Rhetoric and Philosophy: Part One of the Gorgias with Athenian Stranger and Johnathan Bi
"In war and battle, this is the way to do your part."Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Harrison Garlick is joined by the Athenian Stranger and Johnathan Bi to introduce the Gorgias and discuss the first part: the dialogue of Gorgias and Socrates.What begins as a polite inquiry into the nature of rhetoric erupts into a war for the soul of Athens—and for every reader seeking the good li
Plato's Meno and Education with Dr. Daniel Wagner
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Harrison Garlick and Dr. Daniel Wagner dive into Plato’s Meno as a masterclass in education, contrasting Meno’s stagnant, power-seeking sophistry with his slave boy’s humble, rapid learning during the famous geometry demonstration.Visit thegreatbookspodcast.com for our reading schedule.See our COLLECTION OF GUIDES on the great books.Check out our sist
Halloween Short Story: The Chief Mourner of Marne by GK Chesterton
HALLOWEEN SPECIAL! In this episode, Deacon Harrison Garlick and Dr. Joseph Boyne explore G.K. Chesterton's short story 'The Chief Mourner of Marne,' discussing its themes, characters, and moral implications. Visit thegreatbookspodcast.com for our reading schedule!Check out our COLLECTION OF GUIDES TO THE GREAT BOOKS.They delve into the significance of transformative texts in education, the role of
Plato's Phaedo Explained with Dr. Christopher Frey Part II
The Phaedo is a beautiful dialogue! Join Deacon Harrison Garlick and Dr. Christopher Frey, McFarland Professor of Philosophy at the University of Tulsa, as they conclude their exploration of Plato’s Phaedo, a profound dialogue capturing Socrates’ final hours and his arguments for the soul’s immortality. Reading schedule and more!Collection of guides on the great books!In this episode, Dcn. Garlick
Plato's Phaedo Explained with Dr. Christopher Frey Part I
Today on Ascend: the Great Books Podcast, we are discussing Plato's Phaedo, or in ancient times, it had the subtitle of On the Soul. It tells of the death of Socrates and his various arguments for the immortality of the soul. The Phaedo is a complicated dialogue. It's a long dialogue, but it's very beautiful and very much worth the effort. So it merits a slow, attentive, and subtle read.And to hel
On the Death of Socrates: Introducing Plato's Phaedo
Today, we are introducing Plato's Phaedo, "on the soul," with Alec Bianco of the Circe Institute and with Athenian Stranger. We'll discuss why to read the great books, why we read Plato, how you should read Plato, and why to read the Phaedo.We then do a deep dive into the opening of the Phaedo, especially on the setting and the myth of Theseus-where a subtle, attentive read unearths a beautifully
The Crito by Plato with Dr. Pavlos Papadopoulos
In this episode, Dcn. Harrison Garlick and Dr. Pavlos Papadopoulos dive into Plato’s Crito, a dialogue set in Socrates’ prison cell as he awaits execution. They explore Socrates’ refusal to escape, his debt of gratitude to Athens, and the tension between philosophy and the polis’s poetic traditions. Through engaging analysis, they unpack the dialogue’s themes of justice, piety, and civic obligatio
Plato's Apology Part II with Fr. Justin Brophy, OP
In this episode of the Ascend the Great Books podcast, Deacon Harrison Garlick and Father Justin Brophy, OP, delve into the second part of Plato's Apology, exploring Socrates' defense during his trial. They discuss the significance of Socrates' thoughts on death, virtue, and the role of philosophy in life. The conversation also touches on the influence of Saint Justin Martyr, the relationship betw
Plato's Apology Part I with Fr. Justin Brophy, OP
In this episode of Ascend, The Great Books Podcast, host Deacon Harrison Garlick is joined by Fr. Justin Brophy, a Dominican friar and Assistant Professor of Political Science at Providence College, to dive into the first half of Plato’s Apology. Check out thegreatbookspodcast.com for our reading schedule.Check out our collection of guides on the great books!The discussion explores Socrates’ defen
Aquinas and the Euthyphro Dilemma with Dr. Donald Prudlo
How would a Christian answer the Euthyphro dilemma? Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Harrison Garlick is joined by Dr. Donald Prudlo, the Warren Professor of Catholic Studies at the University of Tulsa, to discuss Aquinas and the Euthyphro dilemma. Visit thegreatbookspodcast.com for our reading schedule and more!Need a guide to a great book? Check out our online collection.Also, chec
The Euthyphro by Plato Part II with Dr. Joey Spencer and Friends
In this episode of the Ascend the Great Books podcast, Deacon Harrison Garlick and guests delve into the complexities of Plato's Euthyphro, exploring themes of piety, morality, and the divine - including the famous "Euthyphro Dilemma." The podcast welcomes back Dr. Joey Spencer, who serves as a tutor of theology, an archivist, and an expert in angels and demons.Check out thegreatbookspodcast.com f
The Euthyphro by Plato Part I with Dr. Joey Spencer and Friends
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, we are joined by Dcn. Garlick, Dr. Frank Grabowski, Thomas Lackey, and Dr. Joey Spencer to discuss the first part of Plato’s Euthyphro—a dialogue on piety.Dr. Spencer is the diocesan Archivist for the Diocese of Tulsa, a tutor in Theology, and an expert in the theology of angels and demons.We discuss the context of the dialogue and move into conversations
Teaching Plato's First Alcibiades with Dr. Daniel Shields
In this episode of the Great Books Podcast, Deacon Harrison Garlick and Dr. Daniel Shields discuss the significance of Plato's First Alcibiades, particularly in the context of its use at Wyoming Catholic College.They explore the themes of self-knowledge, the relationship between philosophy and politics, and the importance of mentorship in education. The conversation delves into the character of Al
First Alcibiades by Plato Part Two with Alec Bianco and Athenian Stranger
KNOW THYSELF. Today, we have the second part of the excellent conversation on First Alcibiades with Dcn. Garlick, Alec Bianco, and Athenian Stranger. The conversation starts at 124(b)!First Alcibiades is one of the BEST PLACES you could start with Plato. Check out thegreatbookspodcast.com for our reading schedule and more!Check out our WRITTEN GUIDE to First Alcibiades.From the guide:14. What does
First Alcibiades by Plato Part One with Alec Bianco and Athenian Stranger
PLATO IS PHILOSOPHY - and there is no better place to start with Plato than First Alcibiades. Today, we are discussing First Alcibiades with Alec Bianco of the Circe Institute and with the Athenian Stranger. Go check out their X accounts. Visit thegreatbookspodcast.com for our reading schedule.Check out our PATREON for written guides on the great books!We also have a NEW COMMUNITY CHAT on Plato to
The Life of Alcibiades by Plutarch with Alex from Cost of Glory
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, we are continuing our study of Plato by diving into the Life of Alcibiades by Plutarch with Alex from the Cost of Glory podcast.Visit thegreatbookspodcast.com for more resources!Visit our PATREON page for written guides and to chat with others!Alex is fantastic. Alex and Dcn. Garlick discuss a few preliminaries on why you should read about Alcibiades befor
Plato 101: An Introduction with Friends
WE ARE STARTING PLATO! Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast we are launching into our studies on Plato. We are kicking off with a roundtable of friends—a lawyer, two Phds, and an independent scholar—discussing the preliminary questions on Plato.Questions:Who was Plato?Why should we read Plato?Why should Christians read Plato?How should we read Plato?What Plato will we be reading?We’ll also hav
NEW BOOK: The Transhumanist Temptation with Grayson Quay
In this episode of the Ascend to the Great Books podcast, Deacon Harrison Garlick welcomes back Grayson Quay to discuss his new book, 'The Transhumanist Temptation.'The conversation delves into the ideological roots of transhumanism, its implications for humanity, and the historical context that has led to its rise. Quay emphasizes the importance of teleology in understanding human nature and crit
Homer and the Greek Plays: A Roundtable with Friends
Today on Ascend the Greek Books Podcast, we wrap up our exploration of the Greek plays with a lively roundtable discussion. Our panel of friends delves into the key themes of the tragic plays, including divinity, eros, fate, justice, the cosmos, virtue, and suffering.We explore plays such as the Oresteia, Prometheus Bound, the Theban plays, and the Bacchae, with insights from Homer, Hesiod, and Ar
The Frogs by Aristophanes with Tsh Oxenreider
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, we are joined by Tsh Oxenreider to discuss The Frogs by Aristophanes. The play tells the comedic story of Dionysus deciding all the new tragic poets are terrible, so he travels to Hades to bring back Euripides to help save Athen’s from her moral decay. Once in Hades, Dionysus has several adventures, which includes hosting a poetry contest between Aeschylus
The Clouds by Aristophanes with Dr. Zina Hitz
In this episode, Dcn. Harrison Garlick, Chancellor and General Counsel of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Tulsa, welcomes Dr. Zena Hitz, a tutor at St. John’s College and founder of the Catherine Project, to discuss Aristophanes’ comedic masterpiece, The Clouds. The episode dives into the play’s biting humor, its critique of Athenian society, and its timeless questions about education, piety, and mo
Madness and Piety: A Discussion on The Bacchae Part II
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, we plunge into the second part of Euripides’ The Bacchae—a harrowing yet gripping Greek tragedy that leads us deeper into the mystery of Dionysian eros. We’ll observe the tragic descent of King Pentheus, the Bacchae as a parasite upon society, and the haunting themes of eros, justice, and the question of piety under an evil god.Check out thegreatbookspodca
Madness and Piety: A Discussion on The Bacchae Part I
Madness, piety, gore, and reason! Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, host Dcn. Harrison Garlick and the always insightful Dr. Frank Grabowski delve into the first part of Euripides’ The Bacchae—a chilling yet captivating Greek tragedy that explores piety, eros, the nature of the divine, and the fragility of societal order.The guys explore Dionysus, a god transformed from Homer’s jovial wine
Cursed by the Gods: Oedipus at Colonus Part Two
Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Garlick and Mr. Eli Stone discuss the second and final part of Oedipus at Colonus—wherein Sophocles brings the horrific tale of Oedipus to a beautiful, redemptive end.Deacon and Eli discuss the dramatic zenith of Oedipus’ life, the theme of redemptive suffering, the binding power of love, and all the various ways this play comments on the relationship
Cursed by the Gods: Oedipus at Colonus Part One
In this episode of Ascend the Great Books Podcast, Deacon Harrison Garlick and returning guest Eli Stone dive into the first half of Sophocles’ Oedipus at Colonus, the third play in the Theban cycle by publication order but the second in narrative chronology.Check out thegreatbookspodcast.com for our reading schedule.Check out Patreon page for written guides to the great books!Recorded in rural Ok
Know Thyself: A Discussion on Oedipus the King by Sophocles
Aristotle said Oedipus the King was the best tragedy. Today, Dcn. Harrison Garlick is joined by Mr. Eli Stone and our friend Josiah to discuss Oedipus the King (Oedipus Rex) by Sophocles - the second play in the Oedipus cycle or Theban plays.Check out thegreatbookspodcast.com for our reading schedule and more!Check out our Patreon for our written guides!Here is a letter Dcn. Garlick wrote to our s
The Dark Sign of the Gods: Antigone by Sophocles Part II
Does Antigone hold strong until the end? Is Antigone the hero? Today, Dcn. Garlick is joined again by David Niles and Dr. Frank Grabowski to discuss the second part of Sophocles' Antigone. Check out thegreatbookspodcast.com for our reading schedule!Check out our Patreon page! We appreciate all our supporters.From our guide:15. How does Haemon’s interaction with C
The Dark Sign of the Gods: Antigone by Sophocles Part I
Antigone is the "dark sign from the gods." Today, Dcn. Harrison Garlick is joined by Mr. David Niles of the Catholic Man Show and Dr. Frank Grabowski to discuss the Greek tragedy "Antigone" by Sophocles.Check out thegreatbookspodcast.com for our reading schedule!Check out our Patreon for our guide on Antigone!From the guide:This guide, like the podcast conversation, explores Antigone as a profound
Prometheus Bound by Aeschylus with Dr. Jared Zimmerer
How would you respond to the will of a tyrant? Today, Dcn. Harrison Garlick is joined by Dr. Jared Zimmerer of Benedictine College to discuss Aeschylus' Prometheus Bound - the first play in an otherwise lost triad. Check out thegreatbookspodcast.com for our reading schedule!WHY SHOULD YOU READ PROMETHEUS BOUND?From the guide:Prometheus Bound is the story of man and civilization. Within the contras
How to Read the Bible like St. Thomas Aquinas and Dante
"Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ." Today, Dcn. Harrison Garlick is joined by Mr. Thomas Lackey and Mr. Adam Minihan to discuss how to read the Bible like Jesus, St. Paul, the Early Church Fathers, St. Thomas Aquinas, and Dante!There are four senses: literal, allegorical, moral, and anagogical. The guys explain Divine Authorship, Dante's thesis that you read his Comedy like you Script
Lying as Contraceptive Speech: Lessons from Dante's Inferno
Lying is a sterile act that impedes the purpose of the intellect. Today, Dcn. Harrison Garlick is joined by Sean Berube and Shannon of Catholic Frequency to discuss "Lying as Contraceptive Speech." Dcn. Garlick gives several short talks pulling from Dante's Inferno, the Gospel of St. John, and liberalism with responses from Sean and Shannon from a live recording on X (Twitter).Check out thegreatbo
Dante's Inferno Ep. 7: Cantos 32-34 with Evan Amato
The frozen heart of hell. Today, Dcn. Harrison Garlick is joined by Mr. Evan Amato to discuss the frozen wastes of the 9th Circle of Hell - the damned guilty of treachery (or complex fraud).Check out thegreatbookspodcast.com for other great books to read!A few questions from our guide to Dante's Inferno:78. What happens in the ninth circle of hell: Treachery (Complex F
Dante's Inferno Ep. 6: Cantos 26-31 with Dr. Donald Prudlo
We finish the 8th Circle of hell! Dcn. Harrison Garlick and Dr. Donald Prudlo of the University of Tulsa discuss pits 8-10 of the 8th Circle of Dante's Inferno (Cantos 26-31). Dr. Prudlo is an incredibly talented Catholic scholar! You'll want to hear what he has to say - especially about Odysseus, Troy, and the Garden of Eden.Visit thegreatbookspodcast.com for more resources!From our guide:64.&nbs
Dante's Inferno Ep. 5: Cantos 18-25 with Noah and Gabriel of CLT
Seducers, Flatterers, Sorcerers, and more! Dcn. Harrison Garlick is joined by Noah Tyler, CFO of the Classic Learning Test, and Gabriel Blanchard, a staff writer for CLT, to discuss the first part of the 8th Circle: Simple Fraud (Cantos 18-25).Check out thegreatbookspodcast.com for more information.Check out our written GUIDE to Dante's Inferno: 80+ Questions and Answer.FROM THE GUIDE:53. &nb
Dante's Inferno Ep. 4: Cantos 12-17 with Fr. Thomas Esposito, O. Cist.
We enter the circle of violence. This week Dcn. Harrison Garlick is joined by Fr. Thomas Esposito, O. Cist., a Cistercian priest who teaches at the University of Dallas, to discuss the seventh circle of Dante's Inferno: (1) violence against neighbor (2) violence against self and (3) violence against God & nature.Check out our website for more info: thegreatbookspodcast.com.Check out our 80+ Qu
Dante's Inferno Ep. 3: Cantos 6-11 with Dr. Jason Baxter
Today, we finish lower hell. Dcn. Harrison Garlick is joined by Dr. Jason Baxter of Benedictine College to discuss cantos 6-11 of Dante's Inferno.Check out thegreatbookspodcast.com for other great books!Check out our Patreon for our 80+ Question & Answer guide to the Inferno.From our guide:27. The Third Circle of Hell – Gluttony (Canto 6) Musa explains the thi
Dante's Inferno Ep. 2: Cantos 2-5 with Dr. Jennifer Frey and Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson
Dante approaches the gates of hell! Dcn. Harrison Garlick is joined by Dr. Jennifer Frey, the Dean of the new Honors College at the University of Tulsa, and Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson, the Fletcher Jones Chair of Great Books at Pepperdine University, to discuss cantos 2-5 of Dante's Inferno.Check out thegreatbookspodcast.com. Check out OUR GUIDE to Dante's Inferno: 80+ Questions and Answers.13.&nbs
Dante's Inferno Ep. 1: Intro and Canto 1 with Dr. Jeremy Holmes
We are reading the Inferno together! Dcn. Harrison Garlick is joined by Dr. Jeremy Holmes of Wyoming Catholic College to give an introduction to Dante's Inferno and discuss the first canto. Visit thegreatbookspodcast.com for more information.Reading Schedule for Lent 2025:Introduction & the Dark Woods1. Intro & Canto 1 (3.4.25) with Dr. Jeremy Holmes (Wyoming Catholic)Vestibule of Hell, Li
Aeschylus' Oresteia: The Eumenides Explained Part Two
Dcn. Harrison Garlick is joined by Dr. Frank Grabowski and Mr. Thomas Lackey to discuss the end of the Oresteia, the second part of the Eumenides.Check out thegreatbookspodcast.com.Check out our guide to the Oresteia. The first half of the Eumenides demonstrates Aeschylus’ ability to dramatize philosophical questions. The old system of justice, bound to the Furies’ blood-soaked vengeance, has prov
Aeschylus' Oresteia: The Eumenides Explained Part One
Dcn. Harrison Garlick is once again joined by Dr. Frank Grabowski and Mr. Thomas Lackey to discuss the first part of the Eumenides, the third play in Aeschylus' Oresteia.Check out thegreatbookspodcast.com for more information.Check out our written guide to the Oresteia.The final play of Aeschylus’ Oresteia, The Eumenides, sets forth the transformation of justice from the familial mechanics of the
Aeschylus' Oresteia: Libation Bearers Explained Part Two
Dcn. Harrison Garlick, Mr. Thomas Lackey, and the Adam Minihan come together to discuss the second part of the Libation Bearers, the second play in Aeschylus' Oresteia. Visit thegreatbookspodcast.com for guides and more information.Support us on Patreon and get access to guides!The second half of the Libation Bearers moves decisively toward the climax of Orestes’ role as blood avenger, culminating
Aeschylus' Oresteia: Libation Bearers Explained Part One
This week Dcn. Garlick is joined by Mr. Thomas Lackey and the Adam Minihan to discuss part one of the Libation Bearers, the second play in Aeschylus' Oresteia. Check out thegreatbooksdpodcast.com for more resources.Check out our Patreon for a written GUIDE to the whole Oresteia.From our guide:The Libation Bearers presents Orestes as both the hero and the victim. The cycle of violence will both dem
Aeschylus' Oresteia: Agamemnon Explained Part Two
We are reading Aeschylus' Oresteia. This week Dcn. Garlick, Adam Minihan, Thomas Lackey, and Dr. Frank Grabowski discuss part two of Aeschylus' Agamemnon, the second part of the first play of the Oresteia. Check out thegreatbookspodcast.com for more sources.Check out our written guide to the Oresteia.I. Clytemnestra and A
Aeschylus' Oresteia: Agamemnon Explained Part One
Dcn. Garlick, Dr. Frank Grabowski, and Thomas Lackey are reunited to discuss the first part of Agamemnon, the first play in Aeschylus' Oresteia. Check out thegreatbookspodcast.com for more information.From our written guide available to our supporters:The first play of the Oresteia tells of the homecoming of Agamemnon and is predominately animated by revenge. Aeschylus presents us with questions c
An Introduction to Aeschylus, the Father of Greek Tragedy
Dcn. Harrison Garlick and Adam Minihan are reunited to intro Aeschylus, the Father of Greek Tragedy.Aeschylus (b. 525 BC) was a warrior, statesman, and the father of Greek tragedy. Born into nobility, he grew up in Athens during its pivotal transition from tyranny to democracy. Furthermore, he famously fought in the Battle of Marathon (490 BC), defending a nascent Western civilization against Pers
A Discussion on Hesiod's Theogony
Dcn. Harrison Garlick, Dr. Frank Grabowski, and Mr. Thomas Lackey come together to discuss Hesiod's Theogony - a poem about the origin of the gods and the cosmos.Key conversations:The role of the MusesThe four primordial gods - especially ChaosEros as the generative and binding force of the cosmosZeus as a bringer of civilizationThe Prometheus mythsWomen as the beautiful evilHesiod is a contempora
Why You Should Read the Greek Plays with Ascend
You can read the Greek plays with Ascend!Dcn. Harrison Garlick flies solo this week as he explains why you should read the Greek plays. He discusses how the plays are an intellectual bridge between Plato and Homer and explains some of the major themes you can expect in their writings: justice, eros, fate, divinity, etc.He'll then introduce each Greek play to be read and why it is worth reading.Joi
The Tower of the Elephant by Robert E. Howard with Alberto Fernandez
This week Dcn. Garlick is joined by Alberto Fernandez, a former U.S. diplomat and Vice President of the Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI) in Washington, D.C., to discuss "The Tower of the Elephant," one of the best Conan the Barbarian stories by Robert E. Howard. Deacon and Alberto discuss the life and philosophy of Robert E. Howard along with key elements of the "Tower of the Elephant"
The Odyssey as the Restoration of Culture with President Washut
Dcn. Harrison Garlick is joined by Kyle Washut, President of Wyoming Catholic College, to discuss the Odyssey as the restoration of Catholic Culture and the unique educational approach of Wyoming Catholic College. Eastern CatholicismJohn SeniorOdyssey as the restoration of culturePresident Washut takes on the question: "Why go to a great books college" and gives an excellent answer.They have a bri
The Odyssey Book Twenty-Four: Peace with Roundtable Discussion
THE FINAL BOOK! Dcn. Garlick is joined by Adam Minihan, David Niles, Thomas Lackey, and Dr. Frank Grabowski to discuss Book 24 of the Odyssey: Peace. Check out thegreatbookspodcast.com for more information.From our guide:111. What happens in book twenty-four? Hermes leads the souls of the suitors to Hades, to the fields of asphodel, where they meet Achilles and Agamemno
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