NPR's Book of the Day: Summary of "My Roman History" by Eliza Holstein

Introduction

In the December 18, 2024 episode of NPR's Book of the Day, host Robin Young engages in a profound conversation with Eliza Holstein, the author of My Roman History. Holstein’s memoir delves into her intricate journey through the echelons of academia, examining both the triumphs and tribulations that ultimately led her to abandon her scholarly pursuits. The discussion offers insightful perspectives on the challenges faced by women in academic institutions, the significance of mentorship, and the arduous path from academia to a fulfilling alternative career.

Early Passion for Rome and Dante

Eliza Holstein’s fascination with Rome and Italian history was ignited during her teenage years. As Robin Young recounts, Holstein’s love for Rome was deeply influenced by Dante Alighieri's Divine Comedy, a masterpiece that melds ancient and medieval history with rich symbolism.

“There was something about that text full of symbols and clues. You had to know Italian to really read it, which I didn't. So I started to study Italian,” Holstein explains (02:45). This passion led her to immerse herself in the study of medieval Italy, eventually propelling her toward Rome—both physically and academically.

Academic Journey and Challenges

Holstein pursued her academic ambitions at Cornell University, specializing in medieval Roman history. Her dedication saw her frequently traveling to Rome for immersive studies, where she delved into ancient documents and developed proficiency in Latin. Despite the rigors, she felt a profound connection to Rome, describing it as a place that felt “like home” and exuding a “sense of wonder” that inspired her deeply (04:42).

However, her academic pursuit was not without personal challenges. Holstein recounts a brief and complex relationship with a tenured professor at Cornell, which, in hindsight, highlighted the significant power dynamics at play (07:55). This relationship, though short-lived, had lasting repercussions on her academic trajectory, ultimately limiting her opportunities within the scholarly community.

Gender Bias and Mentorship in Academia

A pivotal theme in Holstein’s memoir is the pervasive gender bias within academia. She reflects on her naïveté regarding gender relations during her time in graduate school, believing that “the gender war was over” and that her work would be the sole determinant of her success (06:35). However, she discovered that structural obstacles continued to impede women in academic settings.

Holstein emphasizes the critical role of mentorship, a factor she had previously underestimated. Her lack of mentorship left her feeling isolated and unsupported, contributing to her eventual disenchantment with academia. She shares, “I realized too late I had become an orphan. I didn't have anyone who was really looking out for me,” highlighting the importance of guidance and support for emerging scholars (05:46).

Decision to Leave Academia

Faced with mounting challenges, including a saturated job market where only 25% of history PhDs secure tenure-track positions, Holstein made the difficult decision to leave academia (10:36). This shift led her to establish a children’s clothing company—a venture starkly different from her scholarly pursuits. The transition was emotionally taxing, culminating in a poignant moment in Rome where she grappled with feelings of loss and displacement (10:44).

Despite the initial loneliness and uncertainty, Holstein acknowledges that leaving academia was not a mistake but rather a redirection toward her true passion—writing. “If you had asked me when I was 9 years old what I was going to do with my life, I would not have said I was going to be a historian. I would have told you that I was going to be a writer,” she reflects (09:12). This realization underscores the notion that what may initially seem like a failure can lead to unforeseen and fulfilling avenues.

Reflections and New Directions

Holstein’s memoir has resonated deeply with many, particularly women in academia who identify with her experiences of structural barriers and the lack of mentorship. She shares her ongoing conversations with Caroline Bynum, the first woman appointed university professor at Columbia, who found striking similarities between Holstein’s graduate school experiences in the 1990s and her own in the 1960s (06:34). These dialogues have been invaluable in shedding light on the enduring challenges faced by women in scholarly fields.

Looking forward, Holstein is excited about exploring new projects, including work related to Machiavelli. This endeavor, though daunting, embodies her continued commitment to intellectual exploration and creative expression (12:18).

Conclusion

Eliza Holstein’s My Roman History offers a candid and compelling narrative of her academic journey, marked by passion, struggle, and resilience. Through her memoir, Holstein not only recounts her personal experiences but also illuminates broader issues within academia, particularly the systemic challenges faced by women. Her story is a testament to the importance of mentorship, the impact of structural biases, and the courage to pursue one's true passion despite obstacles. For anyone navigating the complexities of academic life or contemplating a significant career shift, Holstein’s insights provide both inspiration and valuable lessons.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• “I lost something. I lost a career that I thought I was going to have. But I got the most beautiful outcome I got. I'm actually really lucky.” (02:14)
• “I didn't have anyone who was really looking out for me.” (05:46)
• “I was very naive about gender relations in college.” (06:35)
• “If you had asked me when I was 9 years old what I was going to do with my life, I would not have said I was going to be a historian. I would have told you that I was going to be a writer.” (09:12)

About "My Roman History"

Eliza Holstein's memoir, My Roman History, intricately weaves her personal narrative with her academic pursuits, offering readers an intimate look into the world of medieval Roman studies and the often-unseen challenges within academic institutions. Through her eloquent storytelling, Holstein invites readers to reflect on the nature of passion, the value of mentorship, and the courage it takes to redefine one's path.