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Reading Classically
As classical education surges and students return to the great books that have shaped Western civilization, modern readers are realizing
We have forgotten how to read!
What do we do with Dante? How do we handle Virgil? And what does this all have to do with our daily lives?
In this approachable volume, relearn how to read classically—first with the eyes, then the head, the hands, and the heart.
Short, poignant reflections on seminal classics like Huckleberry Finn, Jane Eyre, and The Divine Comedy will model what classical reading looks like. If you are looking for insight on your favorite novel, inspiration for a new reading challenge, or help engaging your students at a deeper level, this is the place to start. The classics deserve better readers. It’s up to us to relearn how.
We have forgotten how to read!
What do we do with Dante? How do we handle Virgil? And what does this all have to do with our daily lives?
In this approachable volume, relearn how to read classically—first with the eyes, then the head, the hands, and the heart.
Short, poignant reflections on seminal classics like Huckleberry Finn, Jane Eyre, and The Divine Comedy will model what classical reading looks like. If you are looking for insight on your favorite novel, inspiration for a new reading challenge, or help engaging your students at a deeper level, this is the place to start. The classics deserve better readers. It’s up to us to relearn how.
69 pages, Paperback
Published August 15, 2023
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January 22, 2025
I was benefitted before reading this book of having met and befriended the author. His down-to-earth warmth and personality shine through the pages of this volume. He's passionate about reading here, but not in any kind of stuffy way. Instead, his enjoyment of it is contagious as you move quickly through this small title. There are 21 short chapters, more than one of which are my favorites. I'm sure you'll find your favorites as well. Chapter 1 is entitled, "God is Writer." I'd never thought of God in those simple terms, but he's on-target. If God devoted such time and energy to inspiring 66 books of the Bible, then surely I should be taking a greater interest in the written Word. Chapter 5 describes the dangers of reading, in that you never finish a book the same person you were before you started. Chapter 14 is named, "Family Cookbooks and Communing with the Dead." I've always thought that books by dead authors are the most fascinating ones. Ashby just confirms that thought and casts it in a new light. Even though people have long ceased to walk the face of the earth, through their writings we still can interact with them. That reality is fascinating. Finally, a statement made in the conclusion is worth repeating here:
"Herein lies the beauty of reading classically. We do not idolize the great books. We seek to become good readers -- with eyes searching the universe for our Great Author, heads grappling with complexities of reality, hands eager to practice virtue, and hearts straining toward love of God and neighbor" (p. 56).
I recommend this book highly. It's well worth your time and the affordable price tag.
"Herein lies the beauty of reading classically. We do not idolize the great books. We seek to become good readers -- with eyes searching the universe for our Great Author, heads grappling with complexities of reality, hands eager to practice virtue, and hearts straining toward love of God and neighbor" (p. 56).
I recommend this book highly. It's well worth your time and the affordable price tag.
Displaying 1 of 1 review