
Critical Readings examines key literary texts using close reading and critical analysis, and explains these approaches in discussion. Listeners will learn about the texts themselves and about how to approach a text for critical analysis.
| Publishes | Weekly | Episodes | 298 | Founded | 6 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | EducationArtsBooks | |||

The panel concludes The Dunciad with a full reading of the standalone text that became the fourth book of the 1743 edition, before examining Pope's position within the canon of early modern literature and examining his critical appraisal of his cultu... more
The panel reads the third book of the 1743 Dunciad, in which the poem swells to its crescendo, heaping scorn upon the agents of Dullness and the rampant spirits of ignorance and commercialism that threaten the survival of the arts from opera to poetr... more
The panel discusses the second book of Alexander Pope's final Dunciad (of 1743), with attention to the historical personages who are satirised, including Flecknoe and Blackmore, and the effects that they had on later poets and on the English stage.Co... more
The panel reads in full the first book of Pope's final version of The Dunciad, giving special attention to the various cultural references and personal depictions in the poem, along with a look at the parodic critical footnotes provided by the author... more
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This is a wonderful podcast for people open to learning about literature, plays, and poetry beyond what they have already experienced. It is just the right blend of serious scholarship with pop cultural references and humor. A special treat is being able to post comments on the website and to have interchanges amongst the book club members as well as with the professionals. I don’t know of any other podcast that does this.
For a long time I have enjoyed writing self-reflective prose and poetry, but I’ve never felt I’ve had the tools to write well. This podcast has given me some inspiration to continue writing and experimenting both in writing and in music.
So few modern musicians still possess such rich poetic power (though Joe Pug and Marcus Mumford may be an exception). But, podcasts like this keep the knowledge of great poetry alive, so that just like Longfellow’s “footprints on the sands of time,” we might b... more
As a practicing poet, I have searched long and hard for podcasts that do in-depth analyses of the great works. Most just do snippets of readings, and many focus on contemporary free-versers with a political agenda who are, in the scheme of things, highly forgettable. Only a handful analyze works of the past, and this is the only one I’ve found that does multi-part episode series on longer works. Great for students, practitioners looking to better understand their craft, and general interest.
Utterly brilliant.
I’m listening to all previous episodes as well.
Gray's Elegy or Lyrical Ballads seems a good place to start. These are wonderful episodes.
Will go back to Milton’s Paradise Lost after that.
The tone of this podcast is marvellous for those seeking a rejuvenated approach to reading great poetry. Highly recommend if you a lover of Milton, Spenser, Coleridge or any of the pantheon of Great English poets.
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Apple Podcasts | #137 |
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A focus on key literary texts characterized by close reading and critical analysis is at the heart of the content. With hosts engaging in in-depth discussions, the episodes provide insights into a wide range of literature, including classic and contemporary works. Topics span historical contexts, thematic explorations, and stylistic elements, making it appealing not only to literature enthusiasts but also to educators and students seeking a deeper understanding of literary analysis. Listeners are likely to appreciate the blend of scholarship and enthusiasm present in the dialogues, as well as the practical advice offered on engaging with texts critically, making this an excellent resource for those interested in literature's multifaceted na... more
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Critical Readings launched 6 years ago and published 298 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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Recent guests on Critical Readings include:
1. Heather Cross
2. Madeline Potter
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