Athenaeum Book Club

In this episode of The Athenaeum Book Club, host Jeremy Ryan Slate is joined by Fr. Calvin Robinson for a deep exploration of The Space Trilogy by C. S. Lewis. Together they examine the trilogy’s powerful themes of morality, spiritual warfare, technology, and the struggle between the sacred and the modern world. From Out of the Silent Planet to That Hideous Strength, Lewis uses science fiction to confront timeless questions about human nature, power, and truth. Fr. Robinson offers insight into why the trilogy remains strikingly relevant today—and what modern readers can learn from Lewis’ cosmic vision of good and evil.

In this episode of The Athenaeum Book Club, host Jeremy Ryan Slate is joined by Dr. Joshua Phillips of Penn State University for a deep exploration of Leo Tolstoy’s War and Peace—one of the greatest novels ever written. Together they unpack the sweeping story of Napoleon’s invasion of Russia, while examining Tolstoy’s deeper questions about history, fate, leadership, and the search for meaning. Dr. Phillips brings clarity to the novel’s vast cast of characters and philosophical depth, revealing why War and Peace remains as relevant today as ever. A rich conversation on power, human nature, and the forces that shape our lives.

In this episode of The Athenaeum Book Club, host Jeremy Ryan Slate is joined by historian and bestselling author Dan Jones to discuss his book The Wars of the Roses. Together they explore the brutal dynastic conflict that tore England apart in the fifteenth century, examining the ambitions, betrayals, and shifting loyalties that defined the struggle between the houses of Lancaster and York. Jones brings clarity to a chaotic period, revealing how personal rivalries, weak kingship, and political violence reshaped the English monarchy—and set the stage for the rise of the Tudors. A gripping conversation on power, legitimacy, and civil war.

In this episode of The Athenaeum Book Club, host Jeremy Ryan Slate is joined by Will Tanner for a historical examination of Rhodesia and the events that led to the mass emigration of its white population. The conversation explores the political, economic, and social forces surrounding decolonization, the Rhodesian Bush War, and the transition to Zimbabwe. Tanner provides context often missing from mainstream narratives, examining how ideology, power shifts, and violence reshaped the country’s future. This episode is a sober, historically grounded discussion of a controversial chapter in modern history and its lasting consequences.

In this episode of The Athenaeum Book Club, host Jeremy Ryan Slate welcomes Dr. Matthew Knotts for a profound exploration of St. Augustine’s Confessions—one of the most influential works in Christian and philosophical history. Together they trace Augustine’s journey from restless seeker to saint, examining his struggles with desire, truth, and divine grace. Dr. Knotts illuminates the timeless relevance of Augustine’s introspection, revealing how his search for meaning still speaks to the modern soul. This conversation delves into faith, philosophy, and the human condition through the eyes of one of history’s greatest minds.

In this episode of The Athenaeum Book Club, host Jeremy Ryan Slate welcomes Dr. Shaun Rieley of Hillsdale College for a thought-provoking discussion on St. Thomas More’s Utopia. Together they explore More’s vision of the ideal society—its paradoxes, political commentary, and enduring questions about human nature and governance. Dr. Rieley unpacks the historical context of Utopia, revealing how More used fiction to challenge both Renaissance realism and modern ideology. This conversation bridges philosophy, politics, and faith, offering listeners timeless insight into the tension between moral order and the pursuit of a perfect world.

In this episode of The Athenaeum Book Club, host Jeremy Ryan Slate welcomes Dr. Alex Petkas, classical scholar and host of The Cost of Glory podcast, for an engaging discussion on Plutarch’s Life of Pericles. Together they explore how Pericles became the embodiment of Athenian greatness—his vision for democracy, his leadership during the city’s Golden Age, and the moral lessons Plutarch offers for modern readers. This conversation bridges ancient biography and timeless wisdom, revealing how Pericles’ life still challenges our understanding of power, virtue, and civic duty.