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
Feb 4, 2021 • 50min
Emilie du Châtelet
Join distinguished guests Patricia Fara, a historian of science, David Wootton, a historical insights expert, and Judith Zinsser, biographer of Emilie du Châtelet, as they illuminate the life of this groundbreaking 18th-century mathematician and philosopher. They delve into her remarkable translation of Newton's Principia, her dynamic relationship with Voltaire, and her fierce struggle for intellectual recognition in a male-dominated society. The conversation sheds light on her innovative ideas and influential role in shaping the Enlightenment discourse.
Jan 28, 2021 • 56min
Saint Cuthbert
Jane Hawkes, a medieval art history expert, Sarah Foot, a specialist in ecclesiastical history, and John Hines, an archaeological authority, dive into the fascinating life of Saint Cuthbert. They recount his journey from hermit to influential bishop, exploring his miraculous tales and spiritual impact on Northumbria. The discussion highlights the rich context of Celtic Christianity, Cuthbert's profound connection with nature, as well as the surprisingly significant roles women played in his legacy. His enduring influence on pilgrimage traditions is also examined.
5 snips
Jan 21, 2021 • 49min
The Plague of Justinian
Join John Haldon, a Byzantine history expert, Rebecca Flemming, a classics scholar, and Greg Woolf, a Roman history specialist, as they delve into the Plague of Justinian, which devastated Constantinople in 541 AD. They explore the chilling accounts from Procopius, revealing the unprecedented fear and death toll. The discussion uncovers new insights into disease transmission and the societal impacts of the plague, alongside an examination of the medical limitations of the era and how they influenced future practices.
Jan 14, 2021 • 56min
The Great Gatsby
In this engaging discussion, Sarah Churchwell, a Professor of American Literature, reveals how Fitzgerald's life influenced Gatsby's themes of obsession and class. Philip McGowan adds insights on the interplay of wealth in the 1920s, while William Blazek highlights the deep emotional conflicts between Gatsby and Daisy. They explore the novel's tragic climax, the blend of humor and tragedy, and the enduring legacy of Fitzgerald's work. Together, they dissect how aspirations and societal decay resonate through Gatsby's story.
Dec 31, 2020 • 51min
Eclipses
In this captivating discussion, Carolin Crawford, a Public Astronomer from the University of Cambridge, Frank Close, an Emeritus Professor of Physics at the University of Oxford, and Lucie Green, a Professor of Physics at University College London, delve into the wonders of solar and lunar eclipses. They explore historical beliefs, such as ancient dragons devouring the sun, while revealing how these celestial events have unveiled scientific truths. The conversation touches on critical moments in scientific history and the emotional impact of witnessing an eclipse, showcasing their profound significance.
Dec 17, 2020 • 48min
The Cultural Revolution
Joined by Rana Mitter, an Oxford expert on Chinese history, Sun Peidong, a visiting professor at Sciences Po, and Julia Lovell, a Birkbeck literature scholar, the conversation dives into the chaos of China's Cultural Revolution. They discuss how Mao's fear of bourgeois influences led to brutal internal conflicts and the rise of the Red Guards. The guests explore the tragic consequences of Mao's campaigns, the role of the Little Red Book, and the long-term impacts on modern China, highlighting the complex legacy of this tumultuous period.
22 snips
Dec 10, 2020 • 52min
John Wesley and Methodism
In this enlightening discussion, guests Stephen Plant, Eryn White, and William Gibson dive into the life of John Wesley, the methodical mind behind Methodism. They explore Wesley's revolutionary open-air preaching and its impact on Britain’s industrial landscape. The conversation touches on the theological rifts between Arminianism and Calvinism, the influence of George Whitefield, and the movement's internal divisions. Additionally, they reflect on the significant role of women and the legacy of Charles Wesley’s hymns, showcasing how Methodism reshaped religious engagement.
39 snips
Dec 3, 2020 • 50min
Fernando Pessoa
Cláudia Pazos-Alonso, an expert in Portuguese and Gender Studies, Juliet Perkins, a scholar in Portuguese Studies, and Paulo de Medeiros, a professor of English and Comparative Literary Studies, dive deep into the enigmatic world of Fernando Pessoa. They explore his unique creation of over 70 heteronyms, illustrating the complexity of identity and modernism in his work. The conversation also highlights 'saudade,' the emotional depth in 'The Book of Disquiet', and the implications of gender representation in his literary personas, revealing how Pessoa's legacy transcends borders.
Nov 26, 2020 • 52min
The Zong Massacre
Vincent Brown, a Harvard history professor specializing in slavery, is joined by Bronwen Everill from Cambridge and Jake Subryan Richards from LSE to discuss the 1781 Zong Massacre. They reveal how the Zong crew tossed 132 enslaved Africans overboard for insurance profit, highlighting the brutality of the transatlantic slave trade. The guests explore the legal and moral outrage ignited among British abolitionists, the broader implications of prioritizing profit over humanity, and the links to modern societal issues surrounding justice and ethics.
Nov 12, 2020 • 54min
Albrecht Dürer
Join Susan Foister, Giulia Bartrum, and Ulinka Rublack as they dive deep into the life and legacy of Albrecht Dürer, a titan of German art. They explore the vibrant cultural backdrop of Nuremberg and Dürer's revolutionary approach to printmaking. Discover the fascinating story behind his iconic rhinoceros print and how Martin Luther's ideas influenced his work. The discussion also delves into the darker themes of Dürer's engravings and his quest for artistic identity amidst the challenges of his time.
