Islam Issa

Join Professor Islam Issa, a historian specializing in Middle Eastern culture, and comedian Athena Kugblenu for a captivating delve into Alexandria's rich past. They explore the city founded by Alexander the Great, renowned for its legendary library and brilliant minds like Hypatia and Euclid. Discover the impact of early Christianity, Crusader influences, and Alexandria's cultural revival under Muhammad Ali. Athena's humor adds a delightful twist as they unravel tales of science, philosophy, and the city’s vibrant heritage.

In this insightful discussion, guests Luke Kemp, a researcher from Cambridge focusing on societal collapses, Islam Issa, a British-Egyptian historian specializing in Alexandria, and Caroline Dodds-Pennock, an expert on Indigenous American histories, delve into the complexities behind cultural decline. They explain how collapse involves not just immediate factors, but deep-rooted societal vulnerabilities. The conversation explores historical case studies like Ptolemaic Egypt and the Aztecs, emphasizing resilience through cultural continuity and the unexpected outcomes that can emerge from disaster.

Join Islam Issa, a Professor of Literature and History at Birmingham City University, as he uncorks the fascinating role of wine in ancient Egypt. Discover how this beloved beverage was integral to merriment, rituals, and even mummification practices. Hear about the whimsical Festival of Drunkenness and the legendary goddess Sekhmet. Learn about the symbolic connections of wine to the afterlife and the intricate winemaking techniques that defined social dynamics. This journey through history reveals wine as a vital thread woven into the fabric of Egyptian culture.

Join Professor Islam Issa, a renowned Milton scholar, and Matt Elton as they delve into the tumultuous life of 17th-century poet John Milton. They explore his literary brilliance in 'Paradise Lost' and the political activism that defined his era. The discussion covers Milton’s early influences, personal struggles, and intricate beliefs that challenged the status quo. Listeners will also uncover his pivotal role in Cromwell's government and the lasting impact of his work on future generations, particularly in themes of rebellion and human experience.

Join Islam Issa, Professor of English and author of 'Alexandria: The City that Changed the World', as he explores the fascinating history of Alexandria. Discover how Alexander the Great's vision birthed a multicultural metropolis and the iconic Great Library. Islam delves into the architectural marvels like the Pharos lighthouse and discusses the city's role as a sanctuary for scholars including Hypatia and Euclid. He also reflects on Alexandria's enduring legacy, from its strategic significance to its unique customs that continue to thrive today.