Explore the debate: Should we read a book on its own, or does an author’s biography add profound meaning? Discover how the lives of Tolkien, Woolf, and Baldwin shaped their timeless works.
Explore the debate: Should we read a book on its own, or does an author’s biography add profound meaning? Discover how the lives of Tolkien, Woolf, and Baldwin shaped their timeless works.
A deep dive into the intersection of AI and literature. We explore if AI can be truly creative, the philosophical questions of authorship, and how AI might augment—not replace—human writers.
Challenge the traditional definition of literature. Explore the literary merits of graphic novels like Maus, prestige TV like The Sopranos, and cinematic video games like The Last of Us.
Discover the hidden science of reading. Learn how literary fiction enhances brain connectivity, boosts empathy (Theory of Mind), and sharpens your problem-solving skills. Get tips for a better brain.
Explore how literature acts as a powerful catalyst for social and political change. Discover case studies like “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” and “The Gulag Archipelago” that prove a single story can change the world.
Dive into the transformative period of the Renaissance, a revolution that ushered in a new era in art, shifting from theocratic confines to a world enriched by human intellect, creativity, and emotion. Discover the profound impact and lasting legacy of this remarkable period.
Explore the power of unforgettable opening lines in literature, from promising adventure to portraying character complexity. Discover how these lines engage readers, set the tone, and leave a lasting impact.
Explore the profound impact of ancient epics such as Gilgamesh and The Iliad on the evolution of literature, uncovering their narrative structures, character development, and timeless themes that continue to resonate with modern readers.
Explore the life and achievements of Leonardo da Vinci, the great Renaissance artist, engineer, and inventor. Discover his legacy and impact on art, science, and technology.
Explore the life and work of Michelangelo, one of the greatest artists of the Renaissance. Discover his masterpieces, including the Pieta, David, and Sistine Chapel ceiling, and learn about his artistic vision, techniques, and legacy.
Why does gender equality stop at the front door? We explore the “Second Shift,” the “Mental Load,” and why domestic equity is the next frontier of feminism.
In the finale of Shadow Games, we explore concrete solutions to political corruption. From protecting whistleblowers to the “Singapore Model” of governance, learn how societies clean house and restore trust.
Why do we call it a “Ponzi” scheme? Is it “Gerrymandering” with a hard G? Join the Archivist for a hyper-focused history lesson on the specific words we use to describe fraud, from salamanders to international postal coupons.
Explore the fascinating world of mimicry, where nature’s greatest con artists use deception to survive. From harmless flies posing as deadly wasps to octopuses vanishing in plain sight, discover the science behind these evolutionary illusions.
Discover how the digital economy mimics medieval feudalism. From the “rentier capitalism” of software subscriptions to the “precariat” of the gig economy, are we losing our ownership rights?
Corruption isn’t just about money; it’s about lives. In Shadow Games Ep 4, we explore the human toll: crumbling infrastructure, the death of meritocracy, and the erosion of public trust. See the real-world impact of the Shadow Game.