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
4 snips
Mar 19, 2020 • 55min
Frankenstein
Join Karen O'Brien, Michael Rossington, and Jane Thomas as they explore Mary Shelley’s 'Frankenstein', a masterpiece born from a ghost story contest. They discuss Shelley's early life, including her feminist influences, and the profound themes of rejection and responsibility threaded throughout the narrative. The trio delves into the complex dynamics of creator and creation, and how ambition leads to isolation. Additionally, they analyze how Shelley's work has influenced literature and film, revealing timeless philosophical questions about humanity.
Mar 12, 2020 • 54min
The Covenanters
Roger Mason, a Scottish history expert, Laura Stewart, who specializes in the Scottish Reformation, and Scott Spurlock, a scholar of early modern Christianities, delve into the rich tapestry of the Covenanters. They discuss how these Presbyterians navigated their complex relationship with monarchy, particularly during the reigns of James VI/I and Charles I. The conversation highlights tensions over worship, the impact of the National Covenant, and the violent repression during the Killing Times, ultimately examining the legacy of the Covenanters in shaping Scottish identity and religious freedom.
12 snips
Mar 5, 2020 • 51min
Paul Dirac
In this engaging discussion, Graham Farmelo, a biographer of Paul Dirac and Fellow at Cambridge, teams up with Valerie Gibson, a Professor of High Energy Physics, to shed light on the life of the uncelebrated genius. They explore Dirac's journey from engineering to revolutionary contributions in quantum mechanics, including his groundbreaking Dirac Equation and the prediction of antimatter. The conversation reveals Dirac's unique intellect and quirky personality, offering insight into how his mathematical brilliance reshaped modern physics.
Feb 27, 2020 • 50min
The Evolution of Horses
Christine Janis, an expert in mammalian evolution and paleoecology, dives into the fascinating journey of horses. She discusses their evolution from dog-sized ancestors and their eventual domestication in Asia. The conversation highlights the unique anatomy of modern horses and their impressive adaptations for speed and stamina. Janis also explores the intricate relationship between horses and humans, including their significance as food sources and companions. The podcast reveals how environmental changes and human activity have continuously shaped the equine lineage.
7 snips
Feb 20, 2020 • 53min
The Valladolid Debate
Caroline Dodds Pennock, a Senior Lecturer in International History, John Edwards from the University of Oxford, and Julia McClure, specializing in Late Medieval History, tackle the intense Valladolid Debate of 1550. They unpack the ethical dilemmas surrounding Spanish colonization and the brutal encomienda system. The discussions highlight Bartolomé de Las Casas' transformation from a proponent of African slavery to a champion for Indigenous rights. They also explore the philosophical clash with Juan Gines Sepulveda and the enduring implications for human rights discussions.
32 snips
Feb 13, 2020 • 51min
Battle of the Teutoburg Forest
In this engaging discussion, historian Peter Heather, classicist Ellen O'Gorman, and military expert Matthew Nicholls delve into the legendary Battle of the Teutoburg Forest. They unravel how Arminius' remarkable ambush led to a catastrophic defeat for Rome, reshaping both the empire's ambitions and the identity of Germanic tribes. Interestingly, they also explore the aftermath of this battle, including its impact on German nationalism and how figures like Tacitus presented moral critiques of Roman society. History comes alive through their captivating analysis!
Feb 6, 2020 • 55min
George Sand
Angela Ryan, Nigel Harkness, and Belinda Jack delve into the life and literary legacy of the revolutionary 19th-century writer, George Sand. They explore her bold choice to adopt a male pseudonym, which allowed her to challenge societal norms and advocate for women's rights. The discussion highlights her enchanting rural novels that outshone contemporaries like Hugo and Balzac. Sand's complex identity and relationships, particularly with Chopin, reveal the interplay between her personal experiences and her innovative literary voice, making her a pioneering figure in feminist literature.
Jan 30, 2020 • 56min
Alcuin
Joanna Story, a Professor of Early Medieval History, Andy Orchard, an expert in Anglo-Saxon literature, and Mary Garrison, a history lecturer, delve into the life of Alcuin of York. They discuss his pivotal role in the Carolingian Renaissance and his advocacy for broad liberal education. The conversation touches on his preservation of classical texts amidst the Viking invasions, the significance of his extensive correspondence, and the impact of his poetic legacy. They also contrast his educational philosophy with that of Bede, showcasing the evolution of learning in this transformative era.
Jan 23, 2020 • 55min
Solar Wind
In this enlightening discussion, guests Andrew Coates, a solar system expert; Helen Mason, an authority on solar physics; and Tim Horbury, a solar wind specialist, explore the mysteries of solar wind. They dive into its role in breathtaking phenomena like auroras and comet tails, and how it interacts with Earth's magnetic field. The conversation touches on groundbreaking theories from the past and cutting-edge missions like the Parker Solar Probe, stressing the importance of understanding solar impacts on technology and space exploration.
Jan 16, 2020 • 52min
The Siege of Paris 1870-71
In this engaging discussion, guests Karine Varley, Robert Gildea, and Julia Nicholls delve into the dramatic Siege of Paris during the Franco-Prussian War. Varley sheds light on the city's resilience amid food shortages, while Gildea provides historical context regarding the geopolitical tensions leading to the conflict. Nicholls explores the rise and fall of the Paris Commune, emphasizing its revolutionary aspirations and the role of socialists. The profound impact of these events on French nationalism and the legacy of the Commune in modern politics are also highlighted.
