Conversations
Conversations with Bill Kristol are in-depth, thought provoking discussions with leading thinkers and figures in American public life. Paul Cantor has done eight conversations on a wide variety of topics. Conversations can be viewed here on our website or on Conversations with Bill Kristol website, where full transcripts, audio podcasts, and chapter versions of each conversation are available.
Watch Conversations
If Shakespeare were alive today, would he write for television? Cantor and Kristol discuss the medium of TV. Paul Cantor explains what can we learn about contemporary America from our popular TV shows. Conversation
Kristol and Cantor discuss how Shakespeare used plays set in ancient Rome to explore themes such as republicanism, political greatness, and tyranny. Conversation
Paul Cantor discusses works of literature that can teach us about liberty. Conversation
Cantor explains why we should study Shakespeare’s Roman plays, and interprets Coriolanus. Paul Cantor analyzes Julius Caesar, and the impact of philosophy on Roman politics. Conversation
Cantor explains why great art is usually popular in its time, and why today’s best television shows will have enduring cultural value. How do media such as Greek tragedy and TV evolve from simple beginnings to become venues for great art? Conversation
Considering the American Dream, Cantor reflects on why “a country which promises freedom can’t guarantee that freedom won’t be misused.” Conversation
Paul Cantor explains and debunks the prominent arguments suggesting that Shakespeare could not have written his plays. Cantor and Kristol discuss what the “Shakespeare Authorship Question” reveals about our own ideas about literary genius. Conversation
What is a Western? How and when did The Western emerge as an art form? Paul Cantor shares his perspective. Conversation