Episodes

  • Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare (Part II)
    Apr 23 2025

    The love story of Romeo and Juliet may start as a fairytale, but by Act III, things take a turn for the tragic. In Part II of our discussion, we unravel the play’s heartbreaking second half—duels, exiles, poison plots, and, of course, the double death scene that cemented this story’s place in literary history. Was their fate truly written in the stars, or just the result of one miscommunication after another? And why does this tragedy still resonate centuries later? Let’s break down the heartbreak, the missed opportunities, and the timeless lessons of Romeo and Juliet.

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    10 mins
  • Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare (Part I)
    Apr 16 2025

    William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is the ultimate story of love, fate, and disastrous decisions. In Part I of our deep dive, we explore the first half of the play—how a centuries-old family feud leads to a whirlwind romance, secret marriages, and some truly questionable choices. Was it really love at first sight, or just impulsive teenage rebellion? And how does Shakespeare set the stage for one of the most famous tragedies of all time? Join us as we unpack the romance, the rivalries, and the reckless behavior that drive this iconic story forward.

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    8 mins
  • Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka
    Apr 9 2025

    In this episode, we dive into Franz Kafka’s iconic novella “The Metamorphosis.” Join us as we explore the nightmarish morning that greets traveling salesman Gregor Samsa—who awakens to find himself transformed into a colossal insect—and the profound themes that follow. We’ll examine the tension between Gregor and his family, the clash of individual identity with societal expectations, and the resonant ways Kafka’s surreal tale continues to shape modern literary thought.

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    14 mins
  • The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde
    Apr 2 2025

    In this episode, we delve into Oscar Wilde’s sparkling comedy of manners, The Importance of Being Earnest. Join us as we explore Wilde’s razor-sharp wit and satirical edge, unpack the twists and turns of secret identities, and reveal how the play’s satire of Victorian social norms remains both insightful and relevant today. Whether you’re a newcomer to Wilde or a longtime admirer, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on his iconic dialogue, larger-than-life characters, and the enduring charm of this beloved classic. Get ready for clever banter, literary analysis, and a joyful celebration of Wilde’s timeless artistry.

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    13 mins
  • A Modest Proposal by Jonathan Swift
    Mar 26 2025

    In this episode, we dive into Jonathan Swift’s famously provocative 1729 essay, A Modest Proposal. Swift’s sharp satire—offering a shocking “solution” to poverty in Ireland by suggesting the selling of children for food—is as darkly humorous as it is pointedly critical. Join us as we explore the historical context behind Swift’s outrageous proposal, break down the layers of irony that make it a masterwork of satire, and discuss how this centuries-old text still resonates in conversations about inequality, power, and social responsibility today.

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    10 mins
  • A Doll's House by Henrik Ibsen
    Mar 19 2025

    In this episode, we dive into Henrik Ibsen’s revolutionary play A Doll’s House, exploring its explosive impact on 19th-century society and its lasting influence on modern drama. We unpack the tightly wound tensions within the Helmer household, examining how Nora’s journey from devoted wife to empowered individual sparked conversations on gender roles, marriage, and personal freedom. Whether you’re a literature lover, a theater enthusiast, or just curious about what makes this play a timeless classic, join us for an engaging discussion on the brilliant craftsmanship, controversial themes, and enduring legacy of A Doll’s House.

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    15 mins
  • Ethics by Baruch Spinoza (Part I)
    Mar 17 2025

    Welcome to Part I of our deep dive into Baruch Spinoza’s Ethics—the foundational text that boldly reimagines God, nature, and reality. In this episode, we explore Spinoza’s radical claim that there is only one infinite substance—often referred to as “God or Nature”—and everything else flows from that single source. We’ll unpack how Spinoza grounds his philosophy in definitions and axioms, why he rejects the idea of a personal, anthropomorphic deity, and how these ideas paved the way for modern conceptions of rationalism and freedom. Whether you’re new to Spinoza or a seasoned reader, join us to uncover the core arguments that set the stage for the rest of his groundbreaking work.

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    15 mins
  • Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carol
    Mar 12 2025

    Plunge into Lewis Carroll’s whimsical world where Alice tumbles down a rabbit hole into a realm of talking creatures, curious puzzles, and perplexing wonders. We’ll explore the playful wordplay, enchanting characters—like the Cheshire Cat and White Rabbit—and how Carroll’s clever satire continues to charm readers of all ages. Join us for a bite-sized journey through this enduring classic of imagination.

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    11 mins
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