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Mary Beard

A classicist who taught at Cambridge for almost 40 years. She is the author of several books, including Pompeii, SPQR, and Emperor of Rome.

Top 10 podcasts with Mary Beard

Ranked by the Snipd community
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49 snips
Sep 4, 2025 • 54min

How Greece Shaped Rome with Mary Beard

Join celebrated classicist Mary Beard, a Professor at the University of Cambridge, and Charlotte Higgins, Chief Culture Writer for The Guardian, as they delve into the dynamic relationship between ancient Greece and Rome. Discover how Roman tactics, philosophy, and literature were shaped by Greek influence while addressing complex cultural rivalries. Explore Virgil's Aeneid and its homage to Greek epics, alongside the moral dilemmas of conquest and cultural exchange that enriched both civilizations. Their insights unravel the rich tapestry of classical antiquity.
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33 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 56min

Why America Isn’t Rome (And Why That Matters)

Mary Beard, a leading scholar of the classical world and expert on ancient Rome, joins for a fascinating discussion. She delves into the lessons Rome offers for today's politics, particularly how power was wielded by emperors. Beard challenges modern myths of Roman grandeur and reveals the everyday realities under the Empire. They explore the fragility of regimes and why excessive corruption was systemic. Together, they analyze the importance of critical historical interpretation in modern political discourse and the lessons it holds for democracy today.
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24 snips
Sep 4, 2025 • 1h 3min

599: No Such Thing As Julius Caesar's Plan B

In this lively chat, Mary Beard, a renowned classicist and Cambridge professor, joins the crew to dive into the wild world of ancient Rome. They unravel the eccentricities of charioteers like Diocles, who was as famous as modern sports stars, and share the quirky beliefs of Confederate General Stonewall Jackson. The discussion humorously contrasts military legends with their odd habits, while exploring the challenges of Latin poetry and the rich tapestry of historical anecdotes. Get ready for a blend of wit and wisdom!
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21 snips
Aug 24, 2025 • 32min

Mary Beard and Charlotte Higgins on how antiquity shapes the modern world (Part One)

In this engaging conversation, classicist Mary Beard, renowned for her accessible take on antiquity, teams up with Charlotte Higgins, chief culture writer at The Guardian, to discuss the modern implications of ancient history. They delve into how the Romans have been manipulated as a political tool, the essential role of female perspectives in understanding ancient narratives, and the relevant lessons Athenian democracy offers today. Their new venture, 'Instant Classics,' aims to bridge the gap between historical wisdom and contemporary issues.
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5 snips
Nov 19, 2023 • 41min

Mary Beard And Rory Stewart On Power And Politics, Part One

In this insightful discussion, Mary Beard, a renowned Cambridge classicist and author of 'Women & Power,' teams up with Rory Stewart, a former diplomat and author of 'Politics on the Edge.' They delve into the nature of power, comparing ancient Roman leadership with today's political landscape. The conversation touches on the limitations modern leaders face, the impact of bureaucracy, and the often contrasting realities of wielding power. They also explore the lessons from historical figures, examining themes of corruption and disillusionment in politics.
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Sep 3, 2025 • 47min

Would you survive a week in Ancient Rome? | Mary Beard: Full Interview

Join Mary Beard, a renowned classical scholar and Professor of Classics at the University of Cambridge, as she unpacks the realities of life in Ancient Rome. Discover how the Roman Empire's intricate roads facilitated cultural exchange and globalization, revealing a society shaped by inequality. Beard shares surprising insights on daily life, from unconventional culinary delights to the complexities of trade and military culture. She also discusses how modern technology can reshape our understanding of history, igniting a lifelong curiosity about this captivating period.
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Aug 26, 2025 • 25min

Mary Beard and Charlotte Higgins on how antiquity shapes the modern world (Part Two)

Mary Beard, a distinguished classicist from Cambridge, and Charlotte Higgins, chief culture writer at the Guardian, dive into how ancient cultures shape today's society. They discuss how the Romans have historically been used as political symbols and the biases in interpreting figures like Nero. Exploring ancient literature, they highlight its timeless relevance and predict how contemporary society will be seen by future generations. They also reflect on women's equality through the lens of history, urging listeners to advocate for continued progress.
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Aug 24, 2025 • 1h 4min

S3 EP10: Dame Mary Beard

Dame Mary Beard, a renowned classicist and author from Cambridge, joins the discussion. She shares her insights into how ancient stories connect with modern life, showcasing her new podcast, 'Instant Classics.' The duo explores the amusing challenges of celebrity children's books and personal anecdotes about academics and early experiences with history. Their witty banter about podcasting and cultural narratives captivates, blending lightheartedness with intellectual depth, making ancient history feel relevant and engaging.
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Aug 9, 2025 • 52min

801 Museum Matters with Mary Beard; Fascinating Museums; Soul of South Korea

Dame Mary Beard, an esteemed classics scholar and British Museum trustee, discusses the ethics of cultural antiquities and the joy of focusing on select museum artifacts. Bob Eckstein, a humorist and New Yorker cartoonist, shares how museums can transform our perspectives through memorable illustrations. Travel writer Chaney Kwok reveals why Seoul is a fantastic starting point for exploring Asia while highlighting the serene beauty of Jeju Island. Each guest brings a unique lens to the transformative power of museums and travel.
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Jun 21, 2025 • 52min

795 Liverpool; Finding Ancient Roman Art; Home Base Hiking in Europe

Join renowned classicist Mary Beard, a professor at Cambridge University, as she shares captivating insights on Roman remnants outside Italy, revealing symbolisms of power and the stories of all societal layers. Hiking expert Cassandra Overby discusses the joys of home base hiking, emphasizing its benefits for connecting with local cultures and exploring Europe's stunning landscapes. They also explore Liverpool's rich cultural heritage, from its musical roots to historical significance, making it an enticing destination for everyone.

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