Catherine Steel

Matthew Nicholls, a Senior Tutor at Oxford specializing in Roman history, along with Shushma Malik from Cambridge and Professor Catherine Steel from Glasgow, delve into the complexities of Emperor Tiberius. They explore his unexpected rise to power amidst the chaos of the Roman Republic's transition to empire. Tiberius's strategic manipulation of the Praetorian Guard, the treacherous political landscape marked by paranoia, and his controversial retreat to Capri are discussed. The guests also reflect on Tiberius's legacy and how historical narratives have evolved over time.

In a captivating discussion, Professor Catherine Steel from the University of Glasgow delves into Julius Caesar's rise to power. She shares intriguing insights into his early life, highlighting vital relationships that shaped his career. The conversation explores key political struggles, including the impact of Sulla's dictatorship, and contrasts Caesar's bold exploits in the Eastern Mediterranean with the complexities of Roman politics. Key moments in Caesar's journey reveal his mastery of rhetoric and strategy, setting the stage for his legendary status.

Catherine Steel, Professor of Classics at the University of Glasgow, dives into the decline of norms against political violence during the Roman Republic. She discusses how events like the political chaos surrounding the Gracchi brothers shaped Rome’s future. The conversation touches on the roles of key figures like Cicero, the challenges of interpreting ancient sources, and the alarming parallels between Rome's descent into autocracy and today’s political landscape. Insightful reflections on democracy's vulnerabilities and the importance of civil discourse are also highlighted.

In this podcast, Dr Jane Draycott tells the story of Antony and Cleopatra’s war with Octavian, while Professor Philip Freeman, Professor Catherine Steel and Professor Barry Strauss reflect on the legacy of the Ides of March. The podcast explores the love story between Antony and Cleopatra, the rivalry between Octavian and Antony, the rise of Octavian as Rome's first emperor, and the significance of Julius Caesar's death and its impact on history.

Experts Professor Catherine Steel and Professor Philip Freeman discuss the early life and career of Julius Caesar, including his rise in Roman politics, his brutal campaigns in Gaul, his geographical ambitions, and the disintegration of the first triumvirate.