History’s greatest minds are within reach, encapsulated in the pages that line our bookshelves.

These are the Great Books — timeless works that have profoundly shaped human thought for centuries. As a core component of classical education, these foundational texts offer a compelling framework for today’s classroom, providing a rich, immersive journey into the profound questions and ideas that define our humanity.

By engaging with the Great Books, students learn from what Matt Arnold "the best that has been thought or said." The gain a deep understanding of reality, connecting past and present knowledge.

What Are the Great Books? 

The Great Books are a collection of works that have earned this title due to their lasting impact on human thought, society, and culture. These texts provide insights from historical thought leaders and ancestors, offering enduring knowledge that has stood the test of time and continues to resonate in today's world. With these foundational texts, students gain a deeper understanding of historical thought and philosophy, providing context for present-day systems and perspectives.

These books are timeless resources that have provided answers to generations of readers. A defining element of a Great Book is its ability to raise enduring questions about life, including:

• What does it mean to be human?

• What is justice?

• What is morality?

• How should society be structured or governed?

Moreover, these works serve as the cornerstone of Western culture and world civilization, contributing to a collective understanding that has influenced countless modern works of fiction, nonfiction, and philosophy.

A few examples of the Great Books include:

4 Reasons the Great Books Belong in the Classroom

Give Context to Today’s Events and Culture

Introducing students to the Great Books provides valuable context for understanding current events and cultural phenomena. By studying the texts that have profoundly influenced generations, students can gain insight into the evolution of our systems including political structures and the broader Western culture.

Foundation for Learning

The Great Books are a foundation for students to build upon their knowledge. Exploring universal themes and ideas within these texts helps students establish a strong framework for understanding various subjects across the curriculum.

Encourage Deep Thinking in Education

Engaging with the Great Books promotes active learning by stimulating discussions, encouraging dialogue, and requiring students to dive deeply into the text. This active participation fosters an understanding of the material and cultivates a sense of curiosity among students.

Grow Analytical Skills

The wisdom found in the Great Books empowers students to develop their analytical skills, enabling them to form their own opinions and critically evaluate information. With the complexities of these texts, students learn to think critically and independently, fostering a sense of autonomy in their learning journey.

Enhance Language and Communication Skills 

Exploring the Great Books helps students enhance their language and communication skills. By immersing themselves in the rich language of these texts, students deepen their ability to articulate their ideas effectively. 

How Do the Great Books Impact Classical Education?

The impact of the Great Books on classical education curriculum is profound, as they fit perfectly with the main principles of this teaching approach.

• Curricular Foundations: The Great Books are essential in classical education as they offer a solid and proven basis for learning. By studying these texts, students explore the foundational works that have shaped human thinking and culture, gaining a broad understanding of different subjects.

• Enhancement of Language Skills: These works play a key role in improving language skills. By reading these texts with their advanced language, students enhance their vocabulary, language proficiency, and grasp of effective communication.

• Moral and Ethical Formation: Incorporating the Great Books in classical education allows students to explore moral and ethical ideas. By studying the timeless questions on human behavior in these works, students are encouraged to reflect and think deeply, leading to a better grasp of ethical principles and growth in moral virtues.

Impart Enduring Knowledge in the Classroom through the Great Books with a Master’s in Classical Education 

If you’re interested in incorporating the Great Books into your classroom, a degree or certificate in classical education can equip you with the tools and insights needed to enhance your teaching approach.

The University of Dallas offers comprehensive master’s and certificate programs in classical education for those dedicated to fostering student growth. Our curriculum is grounded in the principles of a classical liberal arts education, ensuring a well-rounded approach that promotes intellectual, moral, and spiritual development.

To learn more about how the Great Books can transform your educational philosophy through the lens of classical education,  we invite you to download our eBook, An Educator’s Guide to Joining the Classical Education Movement. 

Take the first step in shaping a more impactful and fulfilling education journey for your students today.