Catharine Edwards

In this enlightening discussion, Simon Goldhill, Angie Hobbs, and Catharine Edwards dive into the life and writings of Marcus Aurelius, the last of the Five Good Emperors. They explore his unique position as both a military leader and a philosopher, examining how his Meditations provide deep insights into Stoicism and ethical leadership. The guests discuss his personal struggles with melancholy, the complexities of his duality, and how his teachings on grief resonate in modern times, revealing the relevance of his wisdom in today's turbulent world.

In this enlightening discussion, guests Philip Hardie, a Latin expert from Oxford, Catharine Edwards, a classicist from Birkbeck, and Edith Hall, a cultural historian from Durham, delve into Virgil's 'The Aeneid'. They explore how Aeneas embodies Roman identity amidst the chaos of war, linking it to Augustus's reign. The impact of Greek culture on Roman literature, the poignant themes of duty versus passion through Aeneas's trials, and the emotional depth of female characters like Dido are all examined, revealing the epic's enduring relevance.