Judith Mossman, a classics expert, Andrew Erskine, specializing in ancient history, and Paul Cartledge, a researcher in Greek culture, delve into the life of Plutarch, the Greek biographer. They explore how Plutarch's 'Parallel Lives' shaped perceptions of historical figures by comparing Greeks and Romans through virtues and vices. The conversation highlights Plutarch's influence on Shakespeare, his narrative techniques, and the moral lessons derived from figures like Alexander the Great and Julius Caesar, illustrating the enduring power of storytelling in history.

Join esteemed guests Paul Cartledge, a leading expert on ancient Greek history, Kathryn Tempest, a scholar in Roman literature and history, and Jon Hesk, a specialist in Greek studies, as they unpack the electrifying speeches of Demosthenes against Philip II of Macedon. They delve into Demosthenes' rise as a master orator, his passionate calls for military action, and the historical context of Athenian democracy. The discussion also touches on his legacy and how his rhetoric has influenced political discourse throughout history.

Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the great epic poem attributed to Homer, telling the story of an intense episode in the Trojan War. It is framed by the wrath of the Greek hero Achilles, insulted by his leader Agamemnon and withdrawing from the battle that continued to rage, only returning when his close friend Patroclus is killed by the Trojan hero Hector. Achilles turns his anger from Agamemnon to Hector and the fated destruction of Troy comes ever closer. With Edith Hall Professor of Classics at King's College LondonBarbara Graziosi Professor of Classics at Princeton UniversityAnd Paul Cartledge A.G. Leventis Senior Research Fellow and Emeritus Professor of Greek Culture at Clare College, CambridgeProducer: Simon Tillotson.

In this insightful discussion, Tom Harrison, a Professor of Ancient History at the University of St Andrews, Esther Eidinow from the University of Bristol, and Paul Cartledge from Clare College, University of Cambridge, delve into the life of Herodotus, the so-called 'father of histories.' They explore his narrative style, the Persian Wars, and his motivations for documenting history. The guests also tackle the complexities of truth in Herodotus’s accounts, his criticisms as the 'father of lies,' and how his observations shaped cultural identities of the ancient world.

The story of the Trojan War – featuring the daring Achilles, beautiful Helen and one very deceptive horse – is a classic of western literature. But did this famous war ever really happen? And was Troy even a real place? On today’s ‘Everything you wanted to know’ episode, Professor Paul Cartledge answers listener questions on these ancient mysteries. Speaking to Ellie Cawthorne, he discusses the discovery of archaeological remains believed to be Troy, and why Homer’s Iliad may not be the most reliable historical source. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ancient Greek expert Paul Cartledge discusses Plato's life and legacy, exploring his philosophical theories on metaphysics, soul, and state organization. They delve into his founding of the academy, contrasting aristocracy with democracy, and his influence on European philosophy. Additionally, they explore Plato's extremist and totalitarian views in 'The Laws'.

Join Paul Cartledge, an expert on ancient Greece, along with fellow scholars such as Stephanie Larson and James Romm, as they unravel the captivating history of Thebes. They explore Thebes' military innovations, including the legendary Sacred Band, and discuss its rich mythology tied to figures like Oedipus and Dionysus. Archaeological insights reveal significant findings that illuminate Thebes' cultural heritage, while the discussion touches on its often-overlooked literary significance in relation to other ancient Greek cities. A thought-provoking journey awaits!

Joining the discussion are Paul Cartledge, an expert in ancient Greek history, Sarah Miles, who specializes in Greek literature, and James Robson, a scholar in ancient Greek comedy. They explore the bold premise of Aristophanes' 'Lysistrata,' where women enact a sex strike to end the Peloponnesian War. The guests unpack themes of gender dynamics, satirical humor, and the real societal concerns woven into comedy. They also discuss how the play reflects Athenian power structures while offering a critique of traditional gender roles, revealing its relevance even today.

In this engaging discussion, historian Paul Cartledge, a Professor at Cambridge specializing in ancient Greece, dives deep into the legendary Battle of Thermopylae. He examines the resilience of Leonidas and his 300 Spartans against Xerxes' immense Persian army. Cartledge challenges traditional narratives, highlights the significance of engineering feats like the Hellespont bridges, and reflects on the daunting strategies and sacrifices during this iconic confrontation. Their defiant 'come and get them' response symbolizes an enduring spirit of courage and heroism.

Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Muses and their role in Greek mythology, when they were goddesses of poetry, song, music and dance: what the Greeks called mousike, 'the art of the Muses' from which we derive our word 'music.' While the number of Muses, their origin and their roles varied in different accounts and at different times, they were consistently linked with the nature of artistic inspiration. This raised a question for philosophers then and since: was a creative person an empty vessel into which the Muses poured their gifts, at their will, or could that person do something to make inspiration flow? WithPaul Cartledge Emeritus Professor of Greek Culture and AG Leventis Senior Research Fellow at Clare College, University of CambridgeAngie Hobbs Professor of the Public Understanding of Philosophy, University of SheffieldAndPenelope Murray Founder member and retired Senior Lecturer, Department of Classics, University of WarwickProducer: Simon TillotsonImage: 'Apollo and the Muses (Parnassus)', 1631-1632. Oil on canvas. Nicolas Poussin (1594-1665).