Intelligence Squared
The Women Who Shaped the Ancient World, with Daisy Dunn
Aug 3, 2024
Daisy Dunn, an award-winning classicist and cultural critic, joins Peter Stothard, an ancient history expert and former editor of The Times, for a fascinating discussion. They delve into the profound yet largely ignored contributions of women in ancient history, highlighting figures like Fulvia and the complexities of gender roles in societies like Athens and Sparta. The conversation also touches on the historical concept of the 'wandering womb' and critiques the male-centric narratives that often overshadow women's achievements in areas like warfare and politics.
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Quick takeaways
- Daisy Dunn explores ancient history from a woman's perspective, revealing the significant but often overlooked contributions of female figures across different cultures.
- The podcast highlights the complex and fluctuating nature of women's rights throughout history, illustrating that progress is not always linear or guaranteed.
Deep dives
Understanding Women's Influence in Ancient History
The episode highlights a new perspective on ancient history by focusing on women’s roles and contributions throughout time. The author, Daisy Dunn, emphasizes that this narrative is not solely about women but rather aims to reconstruct the history of antiquity through the lens of female experiences. Notable figures such as queens, poets, war leaders, and ordinary women who have shaped historical events are discussed, revealing the often overlooked impact they had. This approach seeks to put women more squarely in the historical narrative, countering traditional accounts that frequently diminish or exclude their significance.
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