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
14 snips
May 12, 2022 • 51min
Homo erectus
In this discussion, Peter Kjærgaard, a Professor of Evolutionary History, and José Joordens, a notable researcher in Human Evolution, dive into the fascinating world of Homo erectus. They reveal how this ancient ancestor thrived for two million years, showcasing their endurance and adaptability in diverse habitats. The guests explore the intriguing links between their diet, brain size, and social structures. They also ponder the implications of potential communication capabilities, challenging long-held beliefs about our evolutionary relatives.
May 5, 2022 • 51min
Polidori's The Vampyre
Nick Groom, a Professor of Literature in English, discusses the groundbreaking novella 'The Vampyre' by John Polidori, revealing its profound impact on the vampire mythos. Samantha George highlights how the story intertwines horror with romance, while Martyn Rady explores the historical origins of vampire folklore. The conversation dives into the transition to aristocratic vampires, the evolution of literary themes, and the personal tragedy of Polidori's life. This captivating dialogue sheds light on the enduring legacy and cultural significance of vampire narratives.
5 snips
Apr 28, 2022 • 56min
The Sistine Chapel
Catherine Fletcher, a historian specializing in the Renaissance, joins Sarah Vowles, curator at the British Museum, and Matthias Wivel, curator of sixteenth-century paintings at the National Gallery. They dive deep into Michelangelo's monumental work in the Sistine Chapel, exploring the stunning frescos of Genesis and The Last Judgment. The discussion touches on Michelangelo's artistic evolution, his rivalries with Raphael, and the chapel's rich historical and spiritual significance, revealing how these masterpieces have shaped art and culture through the ages.
6 snips
Apr 21, 2022 • 54min
Antigone
In this engaging discussion, guests Edith Hall, Oliver Taplin, and Lindsay Coo explore Sophocles' 'Antigone', a pivotal Greek tragedy. They delve into the intense conflict between Antigone and her uncle Creon, highlighting themes of morality versus authority and familial loyalty. The role of Tiresias as a prophetic figure offers profound insights into impending doom. The emotional fallout from loss and despair, particularly Eurydice's tragic reaction, is examined, alongside the play's enduring relevance as a symbol of resistance and its feminist interpretations in contemporary contexts.
22 snips
Apr 14, 2022 • 53min
Charisma
Linda Woodhead, a Professor of Theology and Religious Studies, and David Bell, a History Professor specializing in the Age of Revolution, explore Max Weber's concept of charismatic authority. They discuss how leaders like George Washington and religious figures gain loyalty through perceived exceptional qualities. The conversation delves into the impact of charisma in post-WWII politics, its evolution with new media, and the intricate relationship between charisma and accountability. They provide fascinating examples of charismatic leadership's potential for both social transformation and misuse.
Apr 7, 2022 • 50min
Seismology
Rebecca Bell, a Senior Lecturer in Geology and Geophysics, Zoe Mildon, a Lecturer in Earth Sciences, and James Hammond, a Reader in Geophysics, dive deep into seismology. They discuss the historical impact of the 1755 Lisbon earthquake and its role in shaping modern seismology. The conversation unveils the mechanics of seismic waves and how they reveal Earth's internal structure. They also explore challenges in earthquake prediction and essential safety techniques like 'drop, cover, hold' for disaster preparedness.
11 snips
Mar 31, 2022 • 56min
The Arthashastra
Jessica Frazier, a Lecturer in Religious Studies at Oxford, James Hegarty, a Professor of Sanskrit at Cardiff, and Deven Patel, an Associate Professor at Penn, delve into the Arthashastra, an ancient guide to governance. They discuss its historical roots in the Mauryan Empire and its relevance today, touching on the ruthless nature of political strategy. The podcast also explores the concept of Artha and its ethical implications, the complexities of justice and power, and the intriguing parallels between sex and politics that inform leadership dynamics.
4 snips
Feb 24, 2022 • 52min
Peter Kropotkin
In this discussion, guests Ruth Kinna, a political theory professor, Lee Dugatkin, a biology professor, and Simon Dixon, a Russian history expert, delve into the life of Peter Kropotkin, the Russian prince turned anarchist. They explore Kropotkin's radical ideas on mutual aid, challenging Darwinian views of survival, and his influential writings that shaped anarchist thought. The guests also highlight Kropotkin's interactions with Lenin, his time in exile, and the enduring relevance of his cooperative principles in both society and nature.
Feb 17, 2022 • 50min
Romeo and Juliet
Helen Hackett, a Professor of English Literature at University College London, and Paul Prescott, a Professor of English and Theatre at UC Merced, dive deep into Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet'. They explore how this iconic play combines tragedy with comedic elements and its profound impact on literature. The discussion highlights the complexities of young love against societal constraints, the failures of authority figures, and the gothic influences that shape the story. They also analyze different adaptations, emphasizing how Shakespeare's themes resonate in modern contexts.
70 snips
Feb 10, 2022 • 51min
Walter Benjamin
Esther Leslie, a Professor of Political Aesthetics, Kevin McLaughlin, a Professor of English, and Carolin Duttlinger, a German Literature expert, illuminate the complex life of Walter Benjamin. They discuss his innovative ideas on art and media, particularly the concept of 'aura' and the impact of reproducibility. The conversation reveals Benjamin's struggles during his exile in France and his significant work on the Arcades Project, exploring the tension between capitalist culture and artistic expression. His tragic end further highlights the personal cost of his intellectual journey.
