The Rest Is History cover image

The Rest Is History

217. Plague and the decline of the Roman Empire

Aug 4, 2022
In this engaging discussion, Kyle Harper, a renowned Professor of Classics and History, sheds light on the underestimated role of pandemics in the Roman Empire's decline. He examines the Antonine Plague and its impact on life expectancy while claiming urbanization paradoxically harmed public health. Migration's role in spreading diseases like the Plague of Cyprian is also highlighted, alongside the transformative societal changes brought about by recurring epidemics. Harper's insights unravel how these health crises reshaped the empire and influenced religious thought.
52:51

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