-episode 3-

What makes a classic?

In this episode we answer the question: what makes a classic? 

We are all familiar with the concept of classic literature: every language, every culture has its own collection of classics. But what makes a book earn the label of 'classic'? What qualities or characteristics do they share? 

Listen to find out more!

​

Introduction: 00:10

My take on what makes a classic?: 03:58

The Awakening by Kate Chopin: 05:33

Hamlet by William Shakespeare: 08:12

Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes: 10:08

Stoner: A Novel by John Williams: 12:47

The Golden Trifecta and today’s novels: 15:00

​

 You can find here the resources consulted for this podcast: 

​

- Publication of Don Quixote

https://www.dream-alcala.com/16-enero-1605-se-publica-ingenioso-hidalgo-don-quijote-la-mancha/

​

- The Influence of Don Quixote

https://theculturetrip.com/europe/spain/articles/cervantes-don-quixote-an-endless-voyage-from-la-mancha-to-broadway/

​

- Background to Hamlet

https://www.actorsshakespeareproject.org/2016/08/22/hamlets-origins/#:~:text=Hamlet%20is%20based%20on%20a,in%20books%20three%20and%20four.

​

Books that have been consulted for this episode:

The Awakening by Kate Chopin

New Cambridge Shakespeare Hamlet by William Shakespeare

Don Quijote de la Mancha (Spanish ed.) by Miguel de Cervantes

Stoner: A Novel by John Williams

​

Secondary sources:

John Adams by David McCullough