The Ancients Tomb of King Herod
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Dec 26, 2024 Jodi Magnus, a renowned professor specializing in ancient history, joins Tristan Hughes to discuss the intriguing life of King Herod. They delve into the dark tales of his reign, including the infamous Massacre of the Innocents and its contrasts with historical evidence. The discovery of Herod's tomb reveals architectural brilliance tied to both Greek and Judaic influences. They also explore Herod's complex legacy, examining how his mausoleum reflects his aspirations for legitimacy, alongside the gruesome details of his demise and future archaeological hopes.
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Herod: Infamous and Prolific
- King Herod is an interesting figure to study due to the combination of literature and archaeology surrounding him.
- He's infamous for the Massacre of the Innocents, but archaeologists recognize him as a prolific builder.
Herod's Ancestry and Reign
- Herod's mixed heritage (half-Jewish) made him a strategic choice for the Romans but unpopular among many Jews.
- This, along with his cruelty, led to internal threats and fear of assassination.
Cleopatra's Threat to Herod
- Besides internal threats, Herod faced external ones, notably from Cleopatra.
- She viewed Herod's territory as her birthright and chipped away at it with Mark Antony's help.