Apocalypse and Attention: What Medieval Literature Teaches About Climate Change | Shannon Gayk

Richard Roman sits down with his former professor, Shannon Gayk, to explore her latest research on the intersection of medieval literature, environmental justice, and climate change. Her latest book, Apocalyptic Ecologies, explores the ethical implications of these connections. They discuss how medieval texts provide valuable insights into apocalyptic narratives, catastrophe, and community care, offering parallels to today’s climate crisis. The conversation highlights the importance of trust, attention, and sustainability in navigating a fragile world, and how literature can enhance our understanding of disaster, resilience, and the ethics of care. Drawing on both scholarship and lived experience, Richard and Shannon reflect on mortality, community trust, and environmental stewardship, urging listeners to consider how the arts and humanities can shape responses to the climate emergency. Takeaways The arts and humanities play a vital role in discussions of climate change. The environmental catastrophes of the 14th century resonate with today’s climate issues. Medieval literature provides insights into apocalyptic, resilient, and disaster writing. Words like “apocalypse” hold dual meanings: revelation and emergence. Trust in the community and care for the marginalized are essential in times of crisis. Facing mortality can lead to a more meaningful life and increased environmental awareness. Attention and care are critical for building sustainable communities. Reimagining biblical and literary narratives provides new perspectives on today’s crises. The practice of deep attention fosters stronger engagement with the environment. Simple acts, such as walking in nature, can reconnect us with our ecological responsibility. Trust For Thought "Trust is built through attention and care." "We need to learn to die to live better lives." "Leave your phone at home and take a walk." Keywords climate change, medieval literature, environmental justice, apocalypse, apocalyptic literature, ethics of care, sustainability, community, trust, mortality, humanities and climate, environmental catastrophe, ecological storytelling Stay Connected If this episode resonated with you, here are a few ways to stay connected and go deeper: 📩 Substack – Read essays and reflections that expand on each episode at Trust Be Told on Substack. ▶️ YouTube – Watch clips, shorts, and full conversations on the Trust Be Told YouTube channel. 📲 Instagram – Join the conversation and see behind-the-scenes stories at @trustedpod. 🌐 Website – Explore resources and download The Trust Toolkit at Trusted Arc Labs. And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast wherever you listen. We appreciate your support!