Why the classic texts of the ancient world are polarizing us today

Stepping outside of our own particular worldview to encounter another person's story can be scary. That's where the classics come in. They are a collection of texts from the ancient world that cross cultural borders and reveal our common humanity. Frederick Douglas, Martin Luther King Jr., Malcom X, James Baldwin, Toni Morrison and other great African-American figures were steeped in the classics. Today, however, the classics are polarizing, often claimed or misrepresented as primarily a history of white, European identity and accomplishment. Dr. Anika Prather of Howard University pushes back on this prevailing narrative, arguing that the classics teach us about many diverse cultural heritages.

Please support Gloria's podcast! Get a digital subscription to America today!

Links:

In defense of a classical education

Dr. Anika Prather's classics reading list

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices