Ascend - The Great Books Podcast

Harrison Garlick and Adam Minihan
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Welcome to Ascend! We are a weekly Great Books podcast hosted by Deacon Harrison Garlick and Adam Minihan. What are the Great Books? The Great Books are the most impactful texts that have shaped Western civilization. They include ancients like Homer, Plato, St. Augustine, Dante, and St. Thomas Aquinas, and also moderns like Machiavelli, Locke, and Nietzsche. We will explore the Great Books with the light of the Catholic intellectual tradition. Why should we read the Great Books? Everyone is a disciple of someone. A person may have never read Locke or Nietzsche, but he or she thinks like them. Reading the Great Books allows us to reclaim our intellect and understand the origin of the ideas that shape our world. We enter a "great conversation" amongst the most learned, intelligent humans in history and benefit from their insights. Is this for first-time readers? YES. Our goal is to host meaningful conversations on the Great Books by working through the texts in chronological order in a slow, attentive manner. Our host Adam Minihan is a first-time reader of Homer. We will start shallow and go deep. All are invited to join. Will any resources be available? YES. We are providing a free 115 Question & Answer Guide to the Iliad written by Deacon Harrison Garlick in addition to our weekly conversations. It will be available on the website (launching next week). Go pick up a copy of the Iliad! We look forward to reading Homer with you in 2024.

  1. 21H AGO

    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 Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Deacon Harrison Garlick is joined by Dominican friar Fr. Patrick Briscoe, OP, currently serving in Rome as the Order’s General Promoter for Social Communication. The conversation opens with Fr. Patrick explaining Dominican life, the charism of preaching rooted in study and contemplation, the historical significance of Santa Sabina, and the Order’s ongoing vitality—especially through institutions like the Angelicum. The bulk of the episode then offers a close, theologically rich reading of the Purgatorio. The hosts explore how Dante structures these sins as forms of excessive or misdirected love, placing them high on the mountain because they are less grave than pride, envy, or wrath, yet still require deep purification. Key themes include the contrapasso of emaciated souls on the gluttony terrace, the “OMO DEI” face motif symbolizing refashioning in God’s image, the role of intercessory prayer (especially Nella’s for Forese Donati), the two instructive trees, medieval embryology and hylomorphism (how airy shades appear gaunt), and the wall of flame on the lust terrace. They highlight Dante’s nuanced treatment of lust—treating both heterosexual excess (Pasiphaë/bestiality) and sodomy as incontinence—while emphasizing the praise of chaste marriage and the enduring good of ordered eros. The episode closes powerfully with Virgil’s farewell in Canto 27, crowning Dante “lord of himself” once his will is aligned with the good, symbolizing true Christian freedom. Throughout, the discussion weaves literary analysis with practical spiritual application—especially apt for Lent—showing Purgatorio as a map for self-mastery, image perfection, and liberation from disordered desire. Fr. Patrick and Dcn. Garlick underscore Beatrice as an icon of divine beauty and grace, whose memory motivates Dante through the flames rather than being purged away. The episode ends with an invitation to reread the text, follow the Dominicans’ work, and prepare for the Earthly Paradise cantos in the next installment. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ascend and Dante's Purgatorio 07:37 The Role of Communication in the Dominican Order 13:24 Contrapasso and the Nature of Sin 18:19 The Importance of Free Will in Purgatory 24:03 The Interconnectedness of Souls 29:49 Family Dynamics in the Afterlife 35:59 Exploring Purgatory's Dynamics 39:49 Consequences of Disordered Love 43:43 Desires and Reason in Purgatory 48:39 Understanding Gluttony and Vigilance 52:13 Beatitudes and Spiritual Hunger 57:07 Gradations of the Soul 58:53 The Relationship Between Body and Soul 01:02:02 The Finality of Body and Soul Reunion 01:06:51 The Transition to Lust in Purgatory 01:08:02 Contrasting Spirits on the Mountain 01:08:30 Marian and Pagan Examples of Purity 01:09:25 The Nature of Purification in Purgatory 01:10:55 The Healing Power of Praise 01:11:41 Understanding Sexuality and Love 01:12:53 Dante's Quasi-Liturgical Procession 01:14:02 The Psychology of Lust in Purgatory 01:16:03 The Nature of Sin and Its Consequences 01:17:48 The Unnaturalness of Lust 01:19:33 The Direction of Souls in Purgatory 01:20:55 The Role of Intercessory Prayer 01:21:48 Dante's Final Challenge 01:23:11 The Role of Beatrice in Dante's Journey 01:25:38 Purification Through Love 01:27:55 The Symbolism of Eyes and Intellect 01:30:37 Virgil's Final Guidance to Dante 01:34:13 The Aim of Lent and Self-Mastery Following us on X, Facebook, and More!

    1h 36m

  2. MAR 10

    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 transition into avarice and prodigality. In Canto 18, Virgil delivers a pivotal discourse on love as the root of all human action, explaining that love can be misdirected (pride, envy, wrath), deficient (sloth), or excessive (avarice, gluttony, lust). Berry emphasizes the terrace’s brevity and lack of a formal prayer: “their prayers are their action... the penitents too... are doing the thing as a way of offering up some kind of prayer to God” (Dr. Sarah Berry), with running souls and examples of zeal (Mary’s haste to Elizabeth, Caesar’s swift march) countering sloth’s cooling of love. The dream of the siren in Canto 19 warns against deceptive earthly goods, while the face-down penance on the avarice terrace forces fixation on the earth once loved excessively: “these are those who had a disordered love of money... goods that can’t be shared” (Dr. Sarah Berry). Cantos 20–22 deepen the exploration of avarice’s societal and personal consequences. Hugh Capet’s lament in Canto 20 indicts the French dynasty’s greed and sacrilege, including the capture of Boniface VIII. Berry highlights the terrace’s broadened scope: “Dante is really broadening... our awareness of this constellation of problems” beyond mere hoarding or spending. In Canto 21, Statius is released with an earthquake and song, explaining his long purgation on sloth and avarice before moving freely upward. Canto 22 poignantly contrasts Statius (saved through Virgil’s influence and grace) with Virgil himself, who lacks faith despite his virtues. Berry notes the tragedy: “Dante is inviting us... hoping that there is some special providence for Virgil at the end of his journey through purgatory” (Dr. Sarah Berry). The cantos reveal Purgatorio’s hopeful, dynamic nature: purgation reorders love through grace, habituation, and contemplation, moving from deficient to excessive attachments, preparing the soul for divine union. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ascend and Dante's Purgatorio 02:29 Exploring Dante's Purgatorio: Themes and Structure 04:30 The Importance of Purgatorio in Spiritual Growth 08:32 Understanding Love and Culpability in Purgatorio 12:00 Diving into Canto 18: The Lesson on Love 13:26 Virgil's Discourse on Love and Free Will 17:40 The Nature of Love: Ascent and Culpability 20:31 The Role of Reason in Human Actions 26:01 The Formation of Intellect and Will 33:12 Contrapasso: The Penance of Slothfulness 40:19 Examples of Zeal: Mary and Caesar 42:17 Understanding Zeal and Sloth 47:04 The Subtlety of Sin and Human Effort 52:31 Dreams and Allegory in Purgatory 01:00:27 The Nature of Prayer and Action 01:01:58 Exploring Avarice and Its Consequences 01:20:15 Exploring Dante's Inferno: Sin and Intellect 01:23:03 Wrath and Sloth: Roots of Sin in Purgatorio 01:25:23 Positive Examples: Virtue Against Avarice 01:29:30 Dante's Critique of French Dynasties 01:35:56 The Role of Statius: A New Perspective 01:50:30 Virgil's Tragic Journey: Hope for Salvation? Keywords Dante's Purgatorio, Sloth, Love, Virtue, Spiritual Growth, Theology, Literature, Dante, Purgatory, Christian Virtues Dante, Purgatorio, allegory, sin, virtue, divine justice, theology, Mount Purgatory, purgation, salvation

    1h 56m

  3. MAR 3

    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 Cantos 13–17, covering the terraces of envy (Canto 13) and wrath (Cantos 14–17), with a strong focus on the central discourses in the middle of the Comedy. In Canto 13, the envious have their eyelids sewn shut with iron wire, a contrapasso that forces them to rely on others and recognize interdependence. Wilson explains: “envy is to look cross-eyed on another's blessings... to look askance,” and the disembodied voices proclaim examples of generosity (Cana, “I am Orestes,” “Love them from whom you’ve suffered evil”), teaching a mindset of abundance over scarcity (Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson). Sapia humbly confesses her envy and malice, contrasting with the divisive souls in Inferno. Cantos 14–15 transition to wrath, with visions of meekness (Mary and Joseph seeking Jesus, a tyrant sparing a youth, Stephen forgiving his stoners) and Virgil’s discourse on goods: exhaustible earthly goods versus inexhaustible spiritual ones. Wilson notes: “envy stems from a mindset of scarcity versus Mary’s mindset of abundance... able to supply where it looks like there’s not enough in the world” (Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson). The pivotal Canto 16 (the exact midpoint of the Comedy) features Marco Lombardo’s sermon on free will: “If the present world has gone astray, the cause is in you, look at yourselves” (Marco via transcript). Wilson calls it “the clearest sermon that Dante has about what’s wrong with the world,” emphasizing that sin arises from misused free will, not fate or stars, and critiques the separation of temporal and spiritual powers. Canto 17 concludes the wrath terrace with Virgil’s discourse on love as the root of all action (“Neither Creator nor creature was ever without love... natural or of the mind” – Virgil via transcript), which can be misdirected, deficient, or excessive. Wilson highlights the shift from reason to grace: “reason can’t do it alone... you need this other kind of intervention” (Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson). The cantos underscore Purgatorio’s hopeful pedagogy: purgation reorders love through grace, habituation, and contemplation, moving from misdirected to deficient love in preparation for the excessive attachments above. Wilson stresses the urgency: “the Purgatorio shows humanity in motion, dynamic humanity... it has the immediacy... that is an urgency to it” (Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson). Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Great Books Podcast 04:06 Exploring Dante's Purgatorio 07:20 The Great Books Program at Pepperdine University 10:18 The Significance of Purgatorio 13:27 Understanding Envy in Purgatorio 16:17 Contrary Virtues: Generosity and Kindness 19:22 The Role of Sight and Blindness in Envy 22:15 Dante's Moral Lessons on Envy 25:14 Comparative Analysis with Inferno 30:33 Dante's Poetic Structure and Contrapasso 32:15 Comparative Analysis of Characters in Inferno and Purgatorio 33:54 The Role of Good and Bad Examples in Moral Education 34:14 The Shift from Temporal to Eternal Mindsets 34:20 Understanding Canto 14: The Importance of Examples 39:35 Canto 15: The Inquiry into Goods and Wrath 49:58 Canto 16: The Purging of Wrath and Examples of Virtue 51:35 Ecstatic Visions and Penitent Souls 52:19 The Tyrant's Moment of Virtue 53:28 Humanity in Purgatorio 54:38 The Role of Mary in Purgatory 56:02 Saint Stephen's Example of Forgiveness 57:12 Virgil's Limitations as a Guide 59:12 The Nature of Freedom in Purgatory 01:03:07 The Importance of Canto 16 01:04:37 Understanding Freedom in Dante's Context 01:07:32 The Role of Law and Governance 01:14:39 Self-Reflection and the State of the World 01:23:48 Exploring Wrath in Purgatory 01:30:57 Understanding the Structure of Purgatory Keywords: Dante's Purgatorio, Cantos 13-17, spiritual growth, virtues and vices, education, great books, Dante analysis Dante's Divine Comedy, Purgatory, Virtues and Vices, Free Will, Theology, Morality, Literature, Catholic Teaching, Spiritual Journey

    1h 33m

  4. FEB 24

    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 Purgatory and the first terrace dedicated to purging the sin of pride. Garlick describes this section as one of his favorites in the entire Purgatorio, praising Dante’s ability to provide a rich “liturgy” and spiritual library of resources for reshaping the soul into the beautiful image of Christ. The episode emphasizes Purgatorio as a positive map for sanctification and theosis, contrasting sharply with the Inferno’s exposure of sin’s ugliness.Guest Introduction and Classical Education Insights Luke Heintschel shares his personal journey from evangelization and biblical theology into classical education, explaining how he came to see the liberal arts tradition—long cultivated by the Church—as the most effective means of making Catholicism relevant to contemporary young people. He describes his school’s mission of forming saints, scholars, and servants through the historic Catholic educational model. Deacon and Heintschel discuss the harmony of faith and reason, noting how reading great books alongside Scripture and theology reveals that the God who grants intellect is the same God who died on the cross. They highlight the value of using Dante’s Purgatorio in moral theology classes, where it serves not as a list of rules but as a vivid portrayal of transforming the heart’s disordered loves toward their divine end. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ascend and Dante's Purgatorio 09:02 Understanding Purgatorio: A Map for Spiritual Growth 15:17 Dante's Intercessory Prayer and Its Significance 24:13 The Role of Beatrice and the Nature of Beauty 34:53 Dante's Political Critique and the State of Italy 43:05 The Call to Higher Patriotism 53:44 Understanding Virtue: Natural vs. Theological 59:35 The Valley of the Kings: Political Failures and Redemption 01:15:02 Dante's Heroism and Divine Grace 01:19:41 The Three Steps to Purification 01:28:10 The Role of Humility in Purgatory 01:51:27 The Purpose of Purification 01:59:24 Contrappasso: The Nature of Punishment in Purgatory 02:04:44 Examples of Pride: Lessons from the Past 02:16:26 The Beatitudes and the Path to Humility 02:23:47 Eagerness to Ascend: The Transformation of the Soul Moral Theology and the Purpose of Purgatorio The hosts stress that moral theology is not merely about avoiding sin but about becoming beautiful like Christ through active configuration to His image. Purgatorio offers a lifelong guide for this ascent, presenting prayers, hymns, scriptural examples, and artistic visions tailored to remedy each vice. They critique modern reductions of ethics to a “negative list” of prohibitions, arguing that Dante invites readers to pursue positive virtue and interior change. In Canto 6, the souls in Ante-Purgatory eagerly seek Dante’s prayers, illustrating the Catholic doctrine of intercession for the dead as a participation in Christ’s merits. Virgil explains that purgation is possible through the resurrection, and the episode includes a brief catechesis on the communion of saints across the Church Militant, Penitent, and Triumphant. Beatrice is presented as an icon of divine beauty and grace, with the pilgrim’s desire for her serving as a ladder of ascent from earthly eros to divine charity. Dante’s political lament critiques Italy’s fractured state and absent emperor, yearning for the proper balance of temporal and spiritual powers (duo sunt). Canto 7 introduces the Valley of the Princes—failed rulers delayed for neglecting their Christian vocation—while the night rule underscores that ascent requires God’s grace (symbolized by the sun). The princes sing Salve Regina, submitting to the true Queen, Mary. Cantos 8–9: Nighttime Vigil, Dream, and Entry into Purgatory Canto 8 features angels driving off the serpent of temptation in a repeated catechetical drama, while the souls sing Te lucis ante terminum to entrust the night to God. In Canto 9, St. Lucy (meaning “light”) carries the sleeping Dante upward, emphasizing that grace, not human effort, enables ascent. The three steps to the Gate of Purgatory symbolize self-knowledge (polished white marble), contrition (cracked dark stone), and penance (fiery red porphyry). An angel inscribes seven P’s (peccata, sins) on Dante’s forehead and uses the keys of Peter—commanded to err on the side of mercy—to open the gate, accompanied by the Te Deum. Cantos 10–12: The First Terrace – Purging Pride The first terrace features marble reliefs of humility: the Annunciation (Mary’s fiat), David dancing before the Ark, and Emperor Trajan aiding a widow. These Christian and pagan examples of the contrary virtue counter pride. The proud souls carry massive boulders that force them to bow low, habituating humility through a purifying contrapasso. The ground displays carved examples of pride’s fall—Lucifer, the Tower of Babel, Niobe, Saul, Arachne, Rehoboam, and others—often alternating biblical and classical stories to show pride’s universal danger. The souls recite an expanded Our Father, praying intercessorily for those on earth, and the Beatitude “Blessed are the poor in spirit” is sung sweetly. As pride is purged, an angel removes one P, the soul grows eager and light-footed, and Virgil laughs—a rare moment of joy signaling progress in the ascent.Closing and Next Steps Deacon thanks Heintschel for his insights and reminds listeners that Purgatorio functions as both literary masterpiece and practical spiritual guide. The next episode will cover Cantos 13–17 (envy and wrath) with Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson of Pepperdine University. Keywords Dante's Purgatorio, Christian Virtues, Intercessory Prayer, Classical Education, Theology, Morality, Politics, Dante's Guide, Beatrice, Virgil Dante's Purgatorio, humility, pride, spiritual journey, classical analogies, biblical themes, liturgical imagery, virtue, contrapasso, purgation

    2h 28m

  5. FEB 17

    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 for Beauty and Culture at Benedictine College for their support! The conversation with Dr. Prudlo and Deacon Garlick on Cantos 1–5 of Purgatorio opens with the dramatic shift from the despair of Inferno to the hope and refreshment of Purgatory. In Canto 1, Dante and Virgil emerge from Hell onto the shores of Mount Purgatory at Easter dawn, where Dante humbly invokes Calliope, the Muse of epic poetry, signaling his project as “the Christian epic” (Dr. Donald Prudlo). They meet Cato the Younger, a pagan suicide saved by special grace, who embodies the four cardinal virtues and serves as Purgatory’s guardian. Prudlo emphasizes the shock: “Cato the pagan, the suicide is going to heaven. And we have got to confront that or we're going to miss so much of what Dante has to tell us here” (Dr. Donald Prudlo). The ritual of washing with dew and girding with the humble reed contrasts the broken plants of the suicides in Hell and symbolizes the beginning of true humility and ascent. Cantos 2–5 introduce the late-repentant souls and the mountain’s structure. In Canto 2, an angelic boat ferries souls singing “In exitu Israel de Aegypto,” a psalm of liberation that Prudlo calls “a multifaceted song” evoking Exodus, baptism, and community (Dr. Donald Prudlo). Casella’s song of Dante’s own poetry enchants the group until Cato rebukes their idleness. Cantos 3–5 explore excommunicated sinners like Manfred (“even under a curse like mine, no one's ever so lost that eternal love cannot come back, as long as hope has any sprouts of green” – Manfred via transcript) and the slothful Belacqua, who banters with Dante like old friends. Prudlo highlights the power of last-minute mercy and intercession: “Mary is the last refuge of sinners” (Dr. Donald Prudlo). The cantos teach that Purgatory is a place of communal hope, where grace reaches even the unlikely, and purification begins with humility, prayer, and rightly ordered love—setting the stage for the active ascent through the terraces. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dante's Purgatorio 04:42 The Importance of Reading Purgatorio 08:02 Themes of Emancipation and Freedom 10:57 The Role of Cato in Purgatorio 13:49 Cato's Significance and Political Implications 17:00 Cato as a Precursor to Christ 19:51 Dante's Literary Techniques and Inspirations 22:56 Contrasting Ulysses and Dante 25:36 Cato's Death and Its Symbolism 28:52 The Nature of Purgatory and Salvation 31:51 Cato's Virtues and Their Relevance 34:49 The Relationship Between Cato and Christ 37:48 Conclusion and Reflections on Purgatorio 50:03 Understanding Cato's Role in Purgatorio 52:43 The Heartbreaking Choice of Cato 54:39 Rituals and Purification in Purgatory 01:00:18 The Arrival at Purgatory 01:06:34 The Significance of Water in Salvation 01:12:09 Virgil's Role and the Nature of Guidance 01:24:57 Manfred: A Case of Late Repentance 01:29:38 The Role of Intercessory Prayer in Purgatory 01:34:00 Understanding Mount Purgatory and Its Significance 01:40:15 The Character of Belacqua and Themes of Friendship 01:45:22 Late Repentance and the Nature of Mercy 01:54:16 Mary as Intercessor and the Nature of Salvation 02:00:25 The Concept of Divine Justice and Mercy 02:07:53 Final Reflections on Dante's Purgatorio Keywords: Dante, Purgatorio, spiritual growth, Cato the Younger, community, freedom, liberty, friendship, baptism, Easter, Dante, Purgatory, Virgil, Divine Comedy, late repentance, intercessory prayer, Mary, salvation, medieval theology, mercy.

    2h 10m

  6. FEB 10

    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 receive **20%** off the Purgatorio audiobook read by Dr. Baxter! Check out Dr. Baxter's Substack article on his new translation. And thank you to the Center of Beauty and Culture at Benedictine College for promoting this reading of the Purgatorio! Dr. Baxter first describes the Center for Beauty and Culture at Benedictine College as a fellowship program (Angelico Fellows) that immerses students in beauty across the arts, music, literature, and theology—through concerts, museums, and pilgrimages—to foster interiority and the conviction that “beauty can save the world.” The conversation then contrasts Purgatorio with the Inferno: while the latter is dark, lurid, and focused on judgment, Purgatorio is a place of hope, mercy, transformation, and “eternal New Year’s resolutions,” where repentant souls engage in spiritual exercises to purify their tarnished mirrors, learn authentic love and prayer, and prepare for Paradise. Baxter likens the shift to moving from heavy metal to Schubert, emphasizing greenness, brightness, and unexpected mercy. Baxter explains that his translation began as a personal quest for mastery—going word-by-word to internalize Dante like memorizing a piano piece—but evolved into a philosophy capturing Dante’s “fugue” of style: ascending, prolix syntax with lofty classical allusions layered over humble, earthy words that reflect Franciscan humility and incarnational Christian poetics. Examples include goats ruminating on the “foco d’amore” (fire of love) amid elevated star imagery, or Statius calling Virgil’s Aeneid “una mamma” (translated “mommy”). He describes Purgatorio as spiritual surgery—painfully removing the soul’s “carcinogenic” elements through grace-filled cooperation—and a map for configuring to Christ beyond mere sin avoidance. Baxter advises first-time readers to pause at puzzling images or word choices, ask “why would Dante do that here?,” trust their instincts, and consider his audiobook for the text’s soundscape, while Deacon Garlick stresses the canticle’s role as a spiritual guide that mirrors one’s own maturation toward God. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ascend and Dante's Purgatorio 03:43 The Center for Beauty and Culture 05:40 Understanding Dante's Purgatorio 07:54 The Nature of Purgatorio 14:54 Dante the Pilgrim vs. Dante the Poet 19:32 The Spirituality of Translation 20:14 The Philosophy of Translation 30:02 Dante's Christian Poetics 34:22 Exploring Dante's Poetic Style 36:51 Juxtaposition in Dante's Imagery 41:42 The Concept of Spiritual Surgery 44:49 The Journey of Holiness 48:13 The Role of Love in Dante's Theology 52:00 Eros and the Ascent to Divine Beauty 55:29 Engaging with Dante: Tips for First-Time Readers Join us next week as we start Dante's Purgatorio for Lent! SCHEDULE: 2.10.26: Introduction with Dr. Jason Baxter, Benedictine College 2.17.26: Cantos 1-5 (Ante-Purgatory) with Dr. Donald Prudlo, University of Tulsa 2.24.26: Cantos 6-12 (Ante-Purgatory, Gate, First Terrace) with Luke Heintschel, Headmaster, Coeur du Christ Academy 3.3.26: Cantos 13-17 (Envy and Wrath) with Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson, Pepperdine University 3.10.26: Cantos 18-22 (Avarice and Prodigality) with Dr. Sarah Berry, University of Dallas 3.17.26: Cantos 23-27 (Gluttony and Lust) with Fr. Patrick Briscoe, OP 3.24.26: Cantos 28-31 (Earthly Paradise) with Dr. Michael West, University of Dallas. 3.31.26: Cantos 32-33 (Beatrice) with Joshua Charles and Dr. Frank Grabowski, Holy Family Classical School DISCOUNT: Check out Dr. Jason Baxter's website and enter "Ascend" to receive **20%** off the Purgatorio audiobook read by Dr. Baxter! PS - Like the icon in the background? Check out Joey Bremer's incredible hand painted icons!

    1h 3m

  7. FEB 3

    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 guide! Visit Professor Jackson's awesome SUBSTACK. The conversation highlights Gawain's character development, the tension between chivalric ideals and Christian morality, and the Green Knight's role as a tempter. Through a detailed analysis, they uncover the layers of meaning within the poem, emphasizing the intentional tension crafted by the poet. Join our Patreon page to be able to submit questions in the future! Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests 03:13 Teaching 'Sir Gawain and the Green Knight' 06:34 The Role of Women in the Poem 12:27 The Tension Between Pagan and Christian Elements 21:57 Gawain's Moral Dilemmas and Compartmentalization 28:05 The Confession Scene and Its Implications 37:02 Confession and Contrition 40:56 The Green Knight's Dual Role 51:58 Chivalry, Cowardice, and the Girdle 01:02:50 Symbolism of Colors in Gawain 01:07:31 The Intensity of the Green Knight 01:08:36 Gawain's Confrontation and Internal Conflict 01:11:29 The Symbolism of the Green Girdle 01:17:24 The Ending: Bliss and Blunder 01:26:19 Final Thoughts on Gawain's Journey Keywords Sir Gawain, Green Knight, themes, femininity, chivalry, morality, confession, literature, medieval, analysis, Sir Gawain, Green Knight, chivalry, medieval literature, symbolism, courtly love, Morgan Le Fay, color symbolism, moral lessons, literary analysis, great books, philosophy, Catholic, Catholicism Takeaways The tension in the poem is intentional and significant.Gawain's character is complex, showcasing both strengths and weaknesses.The role of femininity is prominent and influential in the narrative.The girdle symbolizes Gawain's internal conflict and moral struggles.Gawain's confession scene raises important questions about sincerity and contrition.The Green Knight serves as a tempter, challenging Gawain's virtues.The poem explores the interplay between pagan and Christian ideals.Gawain's journey reflects a maturation of character and understanding.The hunting scenes parallel Gawain's temptations and moral choices.The poet's use of language invites readers to engage deeply with the text. The nick on the neck symbolizes Gawain's failure in chivalry and Christianity.The poet uses precise language to draw parallels between Gawain's actions and the Green Knight's.The kisses exchanged in the poem have both courtly and liturgical significance.Morgan Le Fay's role raises questions about manipulation and temptation in the narrative.Color symbolism in the poem serves multiple interpretations, particularly with green and red.Gawain's cowardice is a central theme, reflecting on self-preservation and honor.The green girdle represents both shame and a form of glory for Gawain.The ending of the poem invites reflection on the nature of mirth and mockery in chivalric culture.The final motto suggests a moral principle about projecting one's faults onto others.The cyclical nature of bliss and blunder is a key takeaway from the poem's conclusion. We start the Purgatorio next week! Join us!

    1h 41m

  8. JAN 27

    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, administration, and more! They discuss the nuances of Aquinas' understanding of universals, the nature of evil, and the significance of the body in Christian anthropology, highlighting the complexities of Aquinas's intellectual context and the historical development of these philosophical ideas. They discuss how Aquinas synthesized various philosophical traditions, particularly in his understanding of existence and essence, the role of beauty, and the moral implications of his metaphysics. The dialogue also touches on the early church's reception (or rejection) of Aristotle, the influence of Islamic philosophy, and the evolution of Aquinas' thought throughout his life. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the richness of Aquinas' philosophy and its relevance to contemporary discussions on faith and reason. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Great Books Podcast 03:11 Experiencing the Papal Conclave 06:34 Plato and Aquinas: A Complex Relationship 12:43 Aquinas' Intellectual Evolution 17:02 The Importance of Reading the Great Books 24:25 Platonic Thought in Aquinas' Philosophy 34:48 The Quest for Certitude in Philosophy 37:20 Realism and the Nature of Universals 40:56 Mind-Body Dualism and the Significance of the Body 47:36 The Reception of Aristotle in Early Christianity 54:09 The Distinction Between Essence and Existence 01:04:53 The Role of Beauty in Aquinas' Philosophy 01:06:38 Exploring Beauty in Philosophy 01:11:23 The Role of Beauty in St. Thomas Aquinas 01:13:44 The Ladder of Love and Its Implications 01:19:18 Essence and Existence in Thomistic Thought 01:21:41 The Hierarchy of Being and Divine Wisdom 01:25:22 The Evolution of Aquinas' Thought 01:27:35 Understanding Aquinas Through His Influences 01:30:17 Final Thoughts on Faith and Reason Takeaways Aquinas is often mischaracterized as purely Aristotelian.The relationship between Plato and Aristotle is more complex (and harmonious) than often portrayed.Aquinas' thought is enriched by both Platonic and Aristotelian influences.Evil is understood as a privation of the good in Aquinas's philosophy.Aquinas' understanding of universals differs from both Plato and Aristotle.The concept of exitus and reditus is a key Neoplatonic idea in Aquinas.The mind-body dualism presents challenges for Christian thought.Aquinas retained Platonic emphasis on the immortality of the soul.The early church viewed Aristotle as a lesser philosopher compared to Plato.Islamic philosophy significantly influenced medieval scholasticism.Aquinas' distinction between existence and essence is revolutionary.God's essence is existence itself, making Him unique.Beauty is integral to understanding truth and goodness in Aquinas' thought.Grace perfects nature, allowing for a fuller realization of being.The hierarchy of being reflects God's wisdom in creation.Aquinas' later works show a deeper engagement with Neoplatonism.The dialogue between faith and reason is central to Aquinas' philosophy. Keywords Plato, St. Thomas Aquinas, philosophy, Neoplatonism, Aristotle, universals, particulars, evil, mind-body dualism, Christian thought, Aquinas, Aristotle, Plato, medieval philosophy, essence, existence, beauty, Islamic philosophy, hierarchy of being, Thomism, great books

    1h 36m
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97 Ratings

About

Welcome to Ascend! We are a weekly Great Books podcast hosted by Deacon Harrison Garlick and Adam Minihan. What are the Great Books? The Great Books are the most impactful texts that have shaped Western civilization. They include ancients like Homer, Plato, St. Augustine, Dante, and St. Thomas Aquinas, and also moderns like Machiavelli, Locke, and Nietzsche. We will explore the Great Books with the light of the Catholic intellectual tradition. Why should we read the Great Books? Everyone is a disciple of someone. A person may have never read Locke or Nietzsche, but he or she thinks like them. Reading the Great Books allows us to reclaim our intellect and understand the origin of the ideas that shape our world. We enter a "great conversation" amongst the most learned, intelligent humans in history and benefit from their insights. Is this for first-time readers? YES. Our goal is to host meaningful conversations on the Great Books by working through the texts in chronological order in a slow, attentive manner. Our host Adam Minihan is a first-time reader of Homer. We will start shallow and go deep. All are invited to join. Will any resources be available? YES. We are providing a free 115 Question & Answer Guide to the Iliad written by Deacon Harrison Garlick in addition to our weekly conversations. It will be available on the website (launching next week). Go pick up a copy of the Iliad! We look forward to reading Homer with you in 2024.

Information

  • Creator
    Harrison Garlick and Adam Minihan
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    124
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Harrison Garlick and Adam Minihan
  • Show Website
    Ascend - The Great Books Podcast

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