Classical Et Cetera

In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, we discuss the “how” behind classical education. Why do we emphasize memorization, repetition, teacher-led classrooms, and rigorous books? Are these methods outdated, or are they essential to meaningful learning? We explore the purpose behind what we do, respond to common criticisms, and discuss how structure, discussion, discipline, and intellectual formation work together to shape not just ...

In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, we ask a foundational question: What actually makes an education “classical”? Is classical education simply a collection of methods and old books, or are there essential pillars that cannot be removed? The Core Four discuss Latin, literature, moral formation, the Western tradition, and why classical education is more than a modern curriculum with classical decorations added on. Join us as we ...

In this episode of Classical Et Cetera we continue our series on the best books of each era by turning from ancient Greece to ancient Rome. From Virgil’s Aeneid and Cicero’s orations to Roman historians, poets, philosophers, and early Christian writers, we consider the works that reveal Rome’s ideals of order, duty, virtue, and piety—and the world-changing arrival of Christianity.

Whether you’re new to Roman literature or looking...

This week’s Classical Et Cetera is a special one. We recorded this episode live at the 2026 Great Homeschool Convention in Cincinnati, Ohio! You’ll find all the familiar elements—what we’re reading and listener questions—along with something new: questions taken directly from the convention floor. From classical education to art, math, and more, this is a wide-ranging, unscripted conversation with listeners just like you.

*What W...

In this episode of Classical Et Cetera we consider what it means to read well. Is it enough to simply read what we enjoy, or should we aim for something more? We discuss the idea of a “reading diet” and the importance of variety—balancing fiction, philosophy, theology, and more. Along the way, we reflect on how different kinds of books shape us, and why a broader reading life can deepen both understanding and enjoyment. Reading wid...

In this episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ we explore how reading with your child should grow over time, from first books to the great classics. What should you read at each stage? When do things begin to change? We discuss the role of read-alouds, building habits, and why reading together remains essential long after a child learns to read.

*What We're Reading* from This Episode: 

"The Shadows of Men" Abir Mukherjee (Martin)

"The Ot...

In this episode of Classical Et Cetera we tackle a common question: should students read abridged classics? Are they helpful, or do they take away from the original work? From children’s retellings to difficult texts, we explore when abridged books can serve a purpose and when they should be set aside. The answer isn’t simple, but one principle remains: the original always matters.

What We're Reading from This Episode: "Momo" Micha...

In this episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ we take on a risky topic: the worst books we’ve ever read. From beloved classics to modern favorites, we ask what truly makes a book bad. Is it poor writing, or something deeper? Can a beautifully written book still lead readers astray? Along the way, we discuss children’s literature, modern novels, and the importance of discernment in reading. Not every popular book is worth your time, and ...

In this episode of Classical Et Cetera we begin a new series on the best books of each era by turning to ancient Greece! From Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey to the tragedies and philosophers, we explore the foundational works that shaped Western thought. Whether you’re new to the Greeks or looking to revisit them, this conversation offers guidance on what to read and why it matters. Join us as we consider the essential authors, enduring...

How should parents and teachers respond when children learn differently? Should the curriculum change for each child, or should the child be formed by the curriculum?

In this episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ we discuss teaching children with different personalities and temperaments, and why the modern idea of “learning styles” may not be the right place to begin. We explore the difference between temperament and aptitude, how to ...

In this episode of Classical Et Cetera we turn from fiction to Christian nonfiction books that have shaped our faith. From _Mere Christianity_ and Augustine’s _Confessions_ to biographies, letters, and works on prayer and discernment, we share the books that have strengthened, challenged, and sustained us. This isn’t a canon, but rather an honest conversation about the titles we return to and why they matter for classical Christian...

In this episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ we talk about home libraries—what they are, how they grow, and why they matter. From organizing (or not organizing) shelves to collecting meaningful editions, this conversation explores how the books in our homes reflect the life of the mind. We discuss lending versus hoarding, building a collection that is actually used, and why a home library is more than bookshelves—it’s a culture of read...

In this episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ we explore the idea of "poetic knowledge"—a way of knowing that begins with experience and imagination before moving to analysis. Has modern education become too abstract, too quickly? We discuss the role of wonder in learning, the proper order of education, and why children need to encounter reality as a whole before breaking it into parts. From literature and discussion to classroom practi...

What happens when screens replace books and classroom technology replaces thinking? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera we examine research showing how screens, scrolling text, and digital note-taking undermine attention, memory, and deep learning. Drawing on neuroscience and classroom experience, we discuss why scrolling isn’t reading, why speed and engagement aren’t the same as understanding, and why technology-heavy classroom...

In this mailbag episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ we respond to listener questions on a range of parenting and homeschooling topics. We talk about limiting video games, responding to boredom in children, and how much attention homeschool parents should give to modern pop culture versus older stories, books, and models. Drawing on principles of classical education, we explore how attention, imagination, and formation shape a child’s ...

How should adults think about reading goals for the coming year—and how do you read more books without letting reading become a burden?

In this episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ we talk about reading goals for 2026 and what it takes to build a reading life that lasts. Whether you’re an avid reader, returning after a long break, or feeling overwhelmed by unfinished books, this conversation explores better ways to read with intentio...

There is no shortage of advice about how Latin _should_ be taught—immersion, conversation, grammar-first, or a blending of methods. In this episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ we step back and ask a more fundamental question: what should be the real _goal_ of learning Latin, and how should that goal shape the way we teach it? We discuss grammar versus immersion, reading and speaking, and why different methods produce very different re...

Is a classical education practical in today’s world of trades, technology, and rapidly changing careers? In this episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ we explore that question through the real-life experiences of two classically educated graduates—one studying computer science, the other pursuing a trade. Together, we discuss how classical education prepares students not for a single job, but for many possible paths. From plumbing to pr...

What do we really mean when we talk about the liberal arts? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera we walk through the introduction to Sister Miriam Joseph’s _The Trivium_ and explore the classical understanding of education. Rather than focusing on methods or grade levels, we talk about what education *is* — how grammar, logic, and rhetoric function as tools of the mind, and why education is more than just the accumulation of info...