Mike Duncan, a pioneer in historical podcasting known for "History of Rome" and "Revolutions," dives deep into the allure of Roman history and its parallels with modern America. He discusses the corrupting influences that led to the fall of the Republic and the lessons we can learn today. Fascinatingly, Duncan draws connections between ancient Rome and popular shows like 'The Walking Dead' and 'Game of Thrones.' He also teases his upcoming book, 'The Storm Before the Storm,' which explores the decline of the Roman Republic.
Mike Duncan emphasizes the significance of storytelling in historical podcasts, making complex narratives like Roman history more engaging for audiences.
The discussion highlights the fascinating parallels between Ancient Rome and contemporary America, particularly regarding themes of factionalism and political corruption.
Duncan reflects on the enduring influence of Roman history on Western civilization, illustrating its relevance to modern societal and political issues.
Deep dives
Yeti Store Highlights
The podcast highlights various gift options available at the Yeti store, specifically focusing on the Yeti French Press, which is designed to keep coffee hot for hours. It also features an array of waterproof bags, emphasizing their functionality for outdoor activities. Additionally, the episode showcases new cast-iron skillets, which are designed to last and be passed down through generations, suggesting a commitment to durability and heritage in their products. The promotion encourages listeners to visit the Yeti store for quality gear and gifts.
Subaru's Charitable Initiative
The episode discusses the Subaru Share the Love event, which has supported numerous charitable organizations over the past 16 years, including the ASPCA and Meals on Wheels America. For every new Subaru purchased or leased during the promotional period, Subaru partners contribute at least $300 to selected charities. This initiative not only promotes community support but also highlights Subaru's commitment to social responsibility and giving back. The promotion aligns the brand with causes that resonate with customers, encouraging them to make an impact while purchasing a vehicle.
Daniele Bolelli's Historical Perspective
Daniele Bolelli, a university history professor and martial artist, leads a conversation exploring the intersection between history and individual experiences. The discussion features Mike Duncan, known for his pioneering work in historical podcasting, highlighting his significant contributions to the genre since 2007. Bolelli expresses excitement about the departure from traditional narrative formats, engaging listeners in a more dynamic dialogue about historical events. This conversational approach aims to make history relatable and engaging for the audience.
Mike Duncan's Historical Impact
Mike Duncan reflects on his podcast 'The History of Rome', which chronicles the Roman Empire's evolution from its legendary founding to its decline. Over five years, Duncan produced nearly 200 episodes that continue to attract listeners, demonstrating the enduring interest in Roman history. He mentions the challenge of maintaining engagement with the material while exploring themes of power and corruption inherent in historical narratives. Duncan's work illustrates the importance of compelling storytelling in making historical topics accessible to modern audiences.
Exploring Roman History and Beyond
The discussion delves into the broader fascination with Roman history, examining why it holds such a prominent place in collective consciousness. Duncan suggests that the legacy of Rome is intertwined with the history of Western civilization, impacting the development of various cultures and societies. They also touch on how historical models, including the Roman Republic, influenced key founding figures in American history despite their eventual downfall. This exploration underscores the relevance of historical lessons in contemporary society and offers insight into the cyclical nature of political systems.
Mike Duncan is one of the pioneers of historical podcasting. His “History of Rome” is iconic. And his current “Revolutions” is equally compelling. In this episode, we sit down to chat about Roman history, Rome in cinema, the inevitable comparisons between Ancient Rome and the United States, the factionalism and corruption that brought down the Republic, the connection between ‘The Walking Dead’ + ‘Game of Thrones’ and Roman history, his upcoming book “The Storm Before the Storm,” and the future of his “Revolutions” podcast.
PATREON NEWS: I have just started a Patreon account!!!! If you feel in a generous mood, please, check it out at www.patreon.com/historyonfire
