The Subtle POWER of Reading Classic Literature in Small Steps

The invaluable rewards of picking up Classical Books are more necessary now than ever

In an age of viral TikToks, Netflix binges, and infinite Instagram scrolls, it can be easy to overlook (or simply dismiss) the enduring value of classic literature. But for women looking to deepen their understanding of the world with Classical Femininity rooted in truth, goodness and beauty, reading classic books is an unmatched pursuit.

Here’s why women should embrace the Great Books—and where to begin if this journey is new to you.

In classical education, the Great Books are a collection of Classic books that are considered to be the foundation of Western culture and are essential for gaining wisdom and understanding that deal with age-old questions that all humans experience. Classic books offer more than entertainment—they invite readers to wrestle with life’s biggest questions about identity, morality, love, and purpose, from different perspectives to come to the Truth by entertaining all perspectives.

In the words of prolific author C.S. Lewis, "Every age has its own outlook. It is specially good at seeing certain truths and specially liable to make certain mistakes. We all, therefore, need the books that will correct the characteristic mistakes of our own period."

For women like us, reading classics provides a unique lens on history and culture and help cultivate a richer intellectual life, leading us to have deeper conversations and perspectives on the world. Writers like Jane Austen, Fyodor Dostoevsky, and Homer challenge readers to think deeply and critically, offering a counterpoint to today’s culture of immediacy.

Fair warning: many of these books are dense and require patience, but the rewards—a sharper mind, a broader vocabulary, and a heightened sense of empathy—are invaluable. Reading either out loud, in your head, or by audio, is the only formal grammar presented to us in the modern world. Common conversations, social media, TV and movies don't ever present proper syntax. By consuming proper verbiage, we learn new words, recognize sentence structure, and thus are able to articulate our thoughts more effectively.

If the idea of diving into classic literature feels intimidating, don’t worry. Here are some tips and starting points to ease you into this rewarding habit:

Begin with Accessible Classics. Some classics are easier to read than others, especially if you’re new to the genre. Start with works that are short, engaging, and culturally familiar:

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen is a witty exploration of love, class, and social norms. (and then watch the movie again!)

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald is beautifully written critique of the American Dream.

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is a powerful tale of justice and compassion.

Consider the Themes That Resonate With You. Think about what intrigues you most: Romance? Adventure? Philosophy? Use these interests to guide your selections. For instance:

For romance, read Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë

For adventure, read The Odyssey by Homer

For philosophy, read Meditations by Marcus Aurelius

Start Small and Consistent. Classic books can be dense, so take them in manageable portions. Commit to reading a few pages or a chapter a day. Consistency will help you develop the habit and stay engaged, and after you finished one you liked, immediately start another. Reading before bed for 30 minutes is a great way to detox from technology exposure and get your brain ready for sleep. Or, listen when you are on a walk or drive a little at a time!

Use Modern Tools Audiobooks and annotated editions can make classics more accessible. Audiobooks are especially helpful for absorbing the rhythm of older prose styles, while annotations explain historical or cultural references you might not understand at first glance.

Join a Book Club or Online Discussion Engaging with others who are reading the same book can enhance your understanding and make the experience more enjoyable. The Mademoiselle Society by Auriela is a great place to start to read through the Classics.

In a world increasingly obsessed with the new and the now, reading classic books is almost an act of rebellion—a quiet but powerful declaration that depth, beauty, and wisdom still matter.

These works remind us there is more to life than the ordinary-- they are a bridge to a richer life, one filled with meaning and purpose that can help us refine our skills, too.

So pick up that first book, take a deep breath, and step into a conversation that has been ongoing for centuries. The Great Books are waiting, and they have much to teach you. If you want to get started, Thriftbooks is a great online used book site that has fast shipping and great prices.