Passing the Torch: An Apology for Classical Christian Education

by Louis Markos

What is the purpose and meaning of classical education?

Imagine a world where education isn't just about information transfer but about shaping the soul, where students are nurtured to become virtuous, morally self-regulating citizens. Passing the Torch makes an energetic case for the critical role of classical Christian education in today's world. From the pre-Christian musings of Plato to the modern reflections of C. S. Lewis, Passing the Torch intertwines the wisdom of diverse epochs to argue for an educational renaissance grounded in classical Christian values.

Passing the Torch takes educators and parents on a literary and philosophical pilgrimage that

Bibliographic Each essay serves as a gateway to key texts and influential thinkers, making it an invaluable guide for educators and homeschooling parents alike.Close Delve into thoughtful examinations of pivotal figures such as Augustine, Rousseau, and Dorothy Sayers offering an intimate understanding of the moral and educational imperatives they championed.Passionate Passing the Torch ignites a fervor for the value and necessity of classical Christian education that is both infectious and inspiring.In an era where educational paradigms often prioritize technological proficiency over moral formation, Passing the Torch is a call to return to the roots of classical Christian education.

Genres: Education, Nonfiction

240 pages, Paperback

Published April 29, 2025

Reviews

[Patrick S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Starting in 1934, Werner Jaeger began his work on the three-volume series on the establishment of Greek culture and through the education developing the citizenship and character of the Greek person - his or her Paideia. Martin Cothran, of Memoria Press, described it as one of the best works of classical education you could find (paraphrased). I've just started reading it and I came upon Markos' book that presents a more direct linking of Paideia and classical education. On the subject of what is classical education, its importance, and the tracing of the history of not just classical education but also modern-western, secular education history and debate; Markos does a phenomenal just in 240 pages.

In the first part of the book, Markos defines the terms and gives the basis for the classical education model. Again, borrowing from Jaeger's Paideia he contrasts the classical with the modern, secular style. While making the distinctions clear, Markos focuses on the benefits of items like liberal arts vs vocational, a Western canon vs ideological texts, books vs textbooks, history vs. social studies, and humanities vs. social sciences. What doesn't get lost is the focus on the classical model and this shows the quality of writer Markos is. Whereas one could mention all sorts of major shortfalls of the modern western system and decry the communistic progressive takeover and agenda pushing, Markos focuses more on what the classical model offers and uses the contrasting model in contention as a short touchpoint. Markos isn't writing for the Twitter crowd but using the rhetoric to communicate the beauty of the classical method while also showing the benefits in all areas of life. If all you gave someone was this first half of the book to have a really good explanation and starting point for classical education this book would be worth it.

Then you get the second half of the book, which traces the history of Western education from Plato to Augustine and then makes a sharp leftist hand turn as Rousseau and Dewey. I do have to say that I was slightly in awe of Markos not only not calling both these men villains of the highest order of the second millennia but actually had areas of praise to deliver out where appropriate. Finally the discussion of people like C.S. Lewis, Dorthy Sayers, Charolotte Mason, Mortimer Adler, and Doug Wilson (among others) in pushing forward the modern-day resurgence of Western classical education. Again, I was impressed at the balanced attitude towards Sayers and Mason and I think both sides of that internal conversation will walk away happy (or at least equally both unhappy).

I really appreciated this book and Markos' work. I almost feel bad now having to reader Jaeger's book on the subject but this probably will provide a great foundation for getting more into the weeds of Paideia. A small critique I would have is that the two parts of the book do seem very much like two parts. I would have enjoyed a few more tie-ins directly pointing back to direct parts of the previous section of the book. This is not to say they are discarded or you're lost in the ideas of where they happen, but I do think the knitting together could have happened just a bit closer. This will be a resource for those wanting to know more about classical education, firming up the foundational thoughts of classical education, or a tool to give to a homeschool parent looking at what direction to take. Final Grade - A

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

A brief but meaty overview of the history and philosophy of classical (and more specifically classical Christian) education. Markos also delves into the alternate models of education that have been popular in modern times.

A great introduction to the topic while also making the case for its adoption. Polemically pungent and rhetorically unvarnished in places, nevertheless over all Markos provides a good argument for why classical education should be pursued today (whether Christian or not). A good book. Recommend.

[Kenneth Clayton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Helpful, big picture view. I wish he would have spent some time discussing the importance of studying classical languages.

[Will · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Introduction ("The Nature of Man") and Part 1 ("The Nature of Education") are stronger and less polemical than Part 3 ("The Nature of the Debate").

[Charles Sager · Rating 4 out of 5]

A bit dry but covers the need and meaningful impact.

[Sean · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really good book, strongly recommend to anyone in christian education or who is a christian in education.