How do we define a classic novel? With Henry Eliot and Gill Hornby

Can a hundred-year-old novel still feel completely modern? Does The Count of Monte Cristo explain our obsession with superheroes? Who actually decides when a book becomes a classic? And why did Jane Austen’s own family have no idea she’d written Pride and Prejudice?

This week on Ask Penguin, Rhianna is joined by author, editor and podcaster Henry Eliot to rethink everything we mean when we call a book a classic. Together they explore forgotten masterpieces, the problem with the traditional literary canon and the books that retain an “irrepressible freshness” across generations.

Plus, bestselling novelist Gill Hornby reveals how Cassandra Austen became the keeper of her sister’s legacy, and why Miss Austen is ultimately a story about the many different forms a happy ending can take.

For the full list of recommended reads visit: Episode 3: Classics

Send us a question: [email protected].

Website: www.penguin.co.uk/podcast

Follow Henry's substack by clicking here

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.