In Our Time
BBC Radio 4
Spanning history, religion, culture, science and philosophy, In Our Time from BBC Radio 4 is essential listening for the intellectually curious. In each episode, host Melvyn Bragg and expert guests explore the characters, events and discoveries that have shaped our world.
History fans can learn about pivotal wars and societal upheavals, such as the rise and fall of Napoleon, the Sack of Rome in 1527, and the political intrigue of the Russian Revolution. Those fascinated by the lives of kings and queens can journey to Versailles to meet Marie Antoinette and Louis XIV the Sun King, or to Ancient Egypt to meet Cleopatra and Nerfertiti. Or perhaps you’re looking to explore the history of religion, from Buddhism’s early teachings to the Protestant Reformation.
If you’re interested in the stories behind iconic works of art, music and literature, dive in to discussions on the artistic genius of Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel and Van Gogh’s famous Sunflowers. From Gothic architecture to the works of Shakespeare, each episode of In Our Time offers new insight into humanity’s cultural achievements.
Those looking to enrich their scientific knowledge can hear episodes on black holes, the Periodic Table, and classical theories of gravity, motion, evolution and relativity. Learn how the discovery of penicillin revolutionised medicine, and how the death of stars can lead to the formation of new planets.
Lovers of philosophy will find episodes on the big issues that define existence, from free will and ethics, to liberty and justice. In what ways did celebrated philosophers such as Mary Wollstonecraft and Karl Marx push forward radical new ideas? How has the concept of karma evolved from the ancient Sanskrit texts of Hinduism to today? What was Plato’s concept of an ideal republic, and how did he explore this through the legend of the lost city of Atlantis?
In Our Time celebrates the pursuit of knowledge and the enduring power of ideas.
History fans can learn about pivotal wars and societal upheavals, such as the rise and fall of Napoleon, the Sack of Rome in 1527, and the political intrigue of the Russian Revolution. Those fascinated by the lives of kings and queens can journey to Versailles to meet Marie Antoinette and Louis XIV the Sun King, or to Ancient Egypt to meet Cleopatra and Nerfertiti. Or perhaps you’re looking to explore the history of religion, from Buddhism’s early teachings to the Protestant Reformation.
If you’re interested in the stories behind iconic works of art, music and literature, dive in to discussions on the artistic genius of Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel and Van Gogh’s famous Sunflowers. From Gothic architecture to the works of Shakespeare, each episode of In Our Time offers new insight into humanity’s cultural achievements.
Those looking to enrich their scientific knowledge can hear episodes on black holes, the Periodic Table, and classical theories of gravity, motion, evolution and relativity. Learn how the discovery of penicillin revolutionised medicine, and how the death of stars can lead to the formation of new planets.
Lovers of philosophy will find episodes on the big issues that define existence, from free will and ethics, to liberty and justice. In what ways did celebrated philosophers such as Mary Wollstonecraft and Karl Marx push forward radical new ideas? How has the concept of karma evolved from the ancient Sanskrit texts of Hinduism to today? What was Plato’s concept of an ideal republic, and how did he explore this through the legend of the lost city of Atlantis?
In Our Time celebrates the pursuit of knowledge and the enduring power of ideas.
Episodes
Mentioned books
45 snips
May 11, 2023 • 51min
The Battle of Crécy
Anne Curry, Emeritus Professor of Medieval History, Andrew Ayton, Senior Research Fellow, and Erika Graham-Goering, Lecturer in Late Medieval History, delve into the monumental Battle of Crécy. They discuss how Edward III's strategic use of terrain and longbowmen led to a surprising English victory against a larger French force. The conversation highlights the political tensions that fueled the battle, the evolving tactics of warfare, and the economic strategies that shaped the conflict. They also touch on the aftermath, including its pivotal role in the Hundred Years' War.
9 snips
May 4, 2023 • 51min
Cnut
In this insightful discussion, Erin Goeres, an expert in Old Norse literature, Pragya Vohra, a medieval history lecturer, and Elizabeth Tyler, a professor of medieval literature, explore King Cnut's transformative reign in 11th-century England. They delve into Cnut's strategic governance during Viking invasions, his political alliances, especially with Archbishop Wolfstein, and the significant role of his wife, Emma. The conversation also touches on the famous tale of Cnut and the waves, symbolizing humility and authority in leadership.
9 snips
Apr 27, 2023 • 55min
A Room of One's Own
Join Hermione Lee, an expert in Virginia Woolf's literature, Michele Barrett, a feminist theory scholar, and Alexandra Harris, a modern literature specialist as they delve into Woolf's groundbreaking essay on women and fiction. They explore how Woolf's personal experiences shaped her views on women's independence in writing. The conversation highlights Woolf's critique of gender roles, the importance of personal space for women writers, and her lasting legacy on female authorship. Wit, wisdom, and community interplay in their discussion of narrative styles and the evolution of women's voices in literature.
14 snips
Apr 20, 2023 • 51min
Solon the Lawgiver
Melissa Lane, a Princeton politics professor, Hans van Wees, an ancient history expert at UCL, and William Allan, a Latin literature professor at Oxford, dive into Solon's revolutionary impact on Athenian society. They discuss the chaotic backdrop of 6th century Athens, marked by economic strife and class struggles. Solon's reforms abolished debt slavery, fostered wider citizen engagement, and laid the groundwork for democracy. His innovative use of poetry helped bridge divides, making laws accessible and encouraging political dialogue during a time of turmoil.
48 snips
Apr 13, 2023 • 58min
Mercantilism
Damaris Coffman, Professor at UCL, Craig Muldrew, a Cambridge economic historian, and Helen Paul from the University of Southampton delve into the ideology of mercantilism that shaped Europe between the 16th and 18th centuries. They discuss the drive for exports and the critique by Adam Smith highlighting the flaws in mercantilism. The conversation explores the interplay between mercantilism and colonialism, along with its lasting influence on modern economics and the persistent debates over trade policies and globalization.
58 snips
Apr 6, 2023 • 50min
The Ramayana
In this enlightening discussion, Jessica Frazier, a lecturer in the study of religion specializing in Hindu epics, and Chakravarthi Ram-Prasad, a distinguished professor of comparative religion, delve into the timeless tale of the Ramayana. They explore Sita's banishment and Valmiki's influence, while examining the epic's cultural significance and themes of virtue and kingship. The conversation highlights the narrative's evolution and its profound impact on regional adaptations, showcasing the complexities of Rama and Sita’s relationship within ever-changing moral contexts.
46 snips
Mar 30, 2023 • 50min
Megaliths
Join Vicki Cummings, a Neolithic archaeology expert, Julian Thomas, who specializes in megalithic timelines and contexts, and Susan Greaney, who delves into construction techniques, as they explore the mysterious world of megaliths. They discuss burial practices that link ancient spirituality with community collaboration. The relationship between megaliths and the rise of agriculture reveals insights into social dynamics. Fascinatingly, they debate whether these monuments emerged independently or stemmed from shared origins, unraveling a complex history encapsulated in stone.
8 snips
Mar 23, 2023 • 51min
Paul Erdős
Colva Roney-Dougal, a Professor of Pure Mathematics at the University of St Andrews, sheds light on Paul Erdős's early life and the socio-political contexts that shaped his work. Timothy Gowers, a noted mathematician at the Collège de France, discusses Erdős's groundbreaking contributions, especially in number theory and Ramsey theory. Andrew Treglown, an Associate Professor at the University of Birmingham, elaborates on Erdős's unique problem-solving techniques in graph theory and the significance of the Erdős number, reflecting his collaborative spirit in mathematics.
5 snips
Mar 16, 2023 • 53min
Stevie Smith
Delve into the intriguing world of a poet whose iconic phrase 'Not Waving But Drowning' still resonates today. Discover the tumultuous childhood that shaped her unique voice, blending humor and profound themes of love, death, and existentialism. Explore her innovative poetic style and the interplay of her drawings with her verses. Hear about her influence on modern poets like Sylvia Plath and how her overlooked masterpieces continue to challenge traditional norms, revealing a complex relationship with her art and the themes of time and mortality.
13 snips
Mar 9, 2023 • 51min
Chartism
Joan Allen, a history fellow with expertise in the Chartist movement, Emma Griffin, a modern British history professor, and Robert Saunders, a reader in modern history, delve into the rich tapestry of Chartism. They discuss the monumental 1838 Glasgow demonstration and the People's Charter’s calls for reform. Insight into the social fabric shows how the movement unified a disparate working class while facing government repression. The guests highlight the crucial roles women played in activism and how Chartism's legacy paved the way for future reforms.
