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
9 snips
Sep 23, 2021 • 52min
Herodotus
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.
Sep 16, 2021 • 53min
The Evolution of Crocodiles
Anjali Goswami and Philip Mannion delve into the extraordinary evolutionary journey of crocodiles, revealing their dominance during the Triassic period with formidably large ancestors. They discuss how these reptiles thrived through mass extinctions, adapting to diverse habitats over millions of years. The conversation highlights recent advances in studying their evolution, like CT scans and ancient DNA, debunking the myth of crocodiles as 'living fossils' while addressing their current vulnerabilities in a changing climate.
Jun 24, 2021 • 52min
Shakespeare's Sonnets
Hannah Crawforth, a Senior Lecturer in Early Modern Literature, joins poet Don Paterson and professor Emma Smith to dive into the world of Shakespeare's sonnets. They explore the enigmatic historical backdrop of these poems, published in 1609 but overlooked in favor of his plays. The guests discuss the rich themes of love, beauty, and identity, as well as the complexities within relationships portrayed in the sonnets. With insights on wordplay and the paradox of love in Sonnet 116, the conversation reveals the layered meanings that have captivated audiences through the ages.
Jun 17, 2021 • 52min
Edward Gibbon
David Womersley, a foremost expert on Edward Gibbon, and Charlotte Roberts, a lecturer at University College London, dive into the fascinating life of this pivotal historian. They discuss Gibbon's transformative experiences in Lausanne and the profound impact of his conversion to Catholicism. The conversation highlights Gibbon's unique views on the decline of the Roman Empire, the cultural dynamics he explored, and how his literary legacy shaped European thought. They also touch on the irony of historical interpretation during Christ's crucifixion, illustrating Gibbon's enduring relevance.
Jun 10, 2021 • 49min
Booth's Life and Labour Survey
Emma Griffin, a professor of Modern British History, and Sarah Wise, an expert in Victorian social history, join Lawrence Goldman, an Emeritus Fellow at Oxford, to discuss Charles Booth's monumental survey of London life and labor. They delve into Booth's shocking revelation that a third of Londoners lived in poverty, reflecting on his innovative mapping techniques to visualize wealth distribution. The conversation highlights Booth's influence on social reforms, advocating for pensions and welfare, while exploring the dynamic urban landscape of late 19th-century London.
47 snips
Jun 3, 2021 • 53min
Kant's Copernican Revolution
Fiona Hughes, Senior Lecturer at the University of Essex, Anil Gomes, Associate Professor at Trinity College, Oxford, and John Cullinan, Senior Lecturer at King's College London, dive into Immanuel Kant's groundbreaking ideas. They discuss Kant's revolutionary viewpoint, paralleling it with Copernicus's astronomical shift. The conversation covers how the mind shapes our experience of reality, the tension between rationalism and empiricism, and the limitations of human understanding. Their analysis reveals the profound impact of Kant's work on contemporary philosophy.
7 snips
May 27, 2021 • 52min
The Interregnum
Clare Jackson, a Senior Tutor at Trinity Hall, University of Cambridge, Micheál Ó Siochrú, a Modern History Professor at Trinity College Dublin, and Laura Stewart, an Early Modern History expert at the University of York, dive into the tumultuous Interregnum period. They discuss the radical political shifts following Charles I's execution and Cromwell's controversial invasion of Ireland. The complexities of Scotland's political allegiance to Charles II are examined, alongside Cromwell's legacy and the pivotal role of General Monk in restoring monarchy, shedding light on lasting impacts across Britain.
4 snips
May 20, 2021 • 52min
Journey to the West
Julia Lovell, a Professor of Modern Chinese History and Literature, and Chiung-yun Evelyn Liu, an Associate Research Fellow specializing in Chinese literature, dive into the beloved Ming dynasty novel, 'Journey to the West.' They discuss the vibrant cultural backdrop of 16th-century China that inspired its creation. The duo explores the complex relationships between Monkey, Tripitaka, and their companions, highlighting themes of human flaws, enlightenment, and cultural exchange. Their insights reveal the character of Monkey as a symbol of defiance and the novel's lasting impact across different eras.
May 13, 2021 • 50min
Longitude
Join Rebekah Higgitt, Principal Curator of Science at National Museums Scotland, Jim Bennett, Keeper Emeritus at the Science Museum, and Simon Schaffer, Professor at the University of Cambridge, as they delve into the breathtaking quest for determining longitude at sea. Discover how visionary clockmaker John Harrison revolutionized navigation with his chronometers. Explore the collaborative efforts of scientists and mariners that shaped navigation history and the crucial milestones that enabled safe maritime exploration. A riveting look into human ingenuity!
May 6, 2021 • 57min
The Second Barons' War
David Carpenter, a medieval history expert from King’s College London, joins Louise Wilkinson and Sophie Thérèse Ambler, both renowned scholars in medieval studies, to discuss the turbulent Second Barons' War. They delve into Simon de Montfort's rise, his influential reforms for parliamentary representation, and the dark side of his legacy, including violent anti-Semitism. The conversation highlights pivotal events like the Provisions of Oxford and the Battle of Evesham, exploring how personal feuds and political strife shaped England's governance and social landscape.
