Description In this episode of Hot Takes on the Classics, Tim McIntosh and Emily Maeda dive into Pericles’ Funeral Oration as recorded by Thucydides in The Peloponnesian War. They discuss the speech’s celebration of Athenian democracy, its striking contrast to Spartan culture, and its lessons on leadership and sacrifice. Tim delivers his hot take, claiming…

Description In this episode of Hot Takes on the Classics, hosts Tim McIntosh and Emily Maeda explore Thucydides’ The Peloponnesian War, examining the legendary conflict between Athens and Sparta. They delve into Thucydides’ historical methodology, the moral lessons embedded in his accounts, and his views on leadership and power. Key topics include the differences between…

Description In this episode of Hot Takes on the Classics, Emily Maeda and Tim McIntosh dive into the often-overlooked Book of Judges, examining its powerful themes of faith, conflict, and the emergence of monotheism. Through an engaging discussion, they explore the book’s depiction of Israel’s cycle of moral descent, the role of unique leaders called…

Description In this debut episode of ‘Hot Takes from the Classics,’ hosts Tim McIntosh and Emily Maeda delve into one of the greatest war epics ever written, Homer’s Iliad. They discuss the themes of honor, the brutality of war, the intoxicating nature of battle, and the challenges of understanding ancient texts. The episode explores different…

Hot Takes on the Classics is no dusty, academic approach to great books. It’s a gossipy, exciting discussion about the best literature ever written. Hosted by Tim and Emily, who are veteran teachers and long-time friends, Hot Takes is packed with playful debate, meaningful speculation, and hearty laughs. (You may also enjoy Tim’s “The Play’s…