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
Jul 4, 2024 • 51min
The Orkneyinga Saga
Judith Jesch, a Professor of Viking Studies, and Jane Harrison, an expert in Orkney and Viking archaeology, dive deep into the fascinating Orkneyinga Saga. They discuss the saga's blend of myth and history, the significance of artefacts in understanding Viking culture, and Orkney's role as a maritime power. The conversation touches on the mysterious Icelander who penned the saga and the societal transition from raiding to settlement seen through the story of Svein Aslífsson. Their insights reveal the rich tapestry of Viking life and legacy in Orkney.
24 snips
Jun 27, 2024 • 57min
Marsilius of Padua
In this discussion, George Garnett, a Professor of Medieval History at Oxford, delves into the revolutionary ideas of Marsilius of Padua. He articulates Marsilius's bold stance that the source of power lies with the people, advocating for accountability in leadership and challenging papal authority. The conversation explores his impact on concepts like popular sovereignty and republican democracy, as well as his critique of the church's role in governance. Garnett also highlights Marsilius's lasting influence on political thought and the irony of societal dynamics in times of crisis.
61 snips
Jun 20, 2024 • 50min
Empress Dowager Cixi
Yangwen Zheng, a Professor of Chinese History, and Rana Mitter, the S.T. Lee Professor of US-Asia Relations, delve into the life of Empress Dowager Cixi, the powerful matriarch of the Qing dynasty. They discuss her rise from concubine to ruler, her political savvy in a turbulent time, and the modernization reforms she attempted amid external pressures. The conversation highlights her complex legacy, exploring how her decisions shaped modern China's trajectory and the perception of her role during crises like the Sino-Japanese War.
19 snips
Jun 13, 2024 • 58min
Philippa Foot
Anil Gomes, a Fellow in Philosophy at Trinity College, and Sophie Grace Chappell, a Professor at the Open University, dive into the life and legacy of Philippa Foot, a trailblazer in virtue ethics. They discuss her pivotal question, 'Why be moral?' and how she challenged the subjectivity of morals, particularly in light of historical atrocities. The conversation touches on her influential concepts, such as the Trolley Problem, and the vital role virtues play in human flourishing. Their insights unveil the intricate dance between ethics, personal experience, and philosophical inquiry.
5 snips
Jun 6, 2024 • 58min
Sir Thomas Wyatt
Brian Cummings, a distinguished English professor, Susan Brigden, an Oxford historian, and Laura Ashe, a literature scholar, dive into the life of Sir Thomas Wyatt, a pivotal poet of the Tudor era. They discuss Wyatt's role in introducing Italian Renaissance poetry to England and his intricate ties to Anne Boleyn. The conversation explores themes of love and betrayal in poems like 'They Flee From Me,' shedding light on his experiences in Henry VIII's court and the political upheaval that shaped his work, emphasizing his lasting influence on English literature.
45 snips
May 30, 2024 • 54min
Mercury
Join experts Emma Bunce, David Rothery, and Carolin Crawford as they unravel the mysteries of Mercury, the innermost planet. Emma discusses Mercury's complex magnetosphere and the challenges of studying its geology. David dives into its volcanic past and unique surface features, while Carolin highlights its unusual orbit and rotation. Together, they shed light on the BepiColombo mission, aiming to unveil more secrets of this elusive planet. Their insights showcase Mercury's pivotal role in shaping our understanding of the solar system.
13 snips
May 23, 2024 • 60min
Bertolt Brecht
Laura Bradley, a Professor of German and Theatre, David Barnett, a Professor of Theatre, and Tom Kuhn, a Professor of Twentieth Century German Literature, dive into the revolutionary world of Bertolt Brecht. They discuss Brecht's aim to provoke critical thinking through theatre, his innovative works like The Threepenny Opera, and the evolution of his style during exile. The trio highlights Brecht's unique techniques that engaged audiences politically and socially, along with his lasting influence on modern theatre and the complexities of his legacy.
11 snips
May 16, 2024 • 59min
Napoleon's Hundred Days
Michael Rowe, a Reader in European History, delves into Napoleon's post-exile power play. Katherine Astbury, a Professor of French Studies, highlights the complex political sentiments fueling his brief resurgence. Zack White, an Early Career Research Fellow, sheds light on military strategies that led to Napoleon’s decisive but ultimately futile campaign. They discuss the charisma behind his comeback, the intricate dynamics of coalition warfare, and how missteps at Waterloo sealed his fate, all while pondering the enduring legacy of his ambition.
8 snips
May 9, 2024 • 55min
Lysistrata
Joining the discussion are Paul Cartledge, an expert in ancient Greek history, Sarah Miles, who specializes in Greek literature, and James Robson, a scholar in ancient Greek comedy. They explore the bold premise of Aristophanes' 'Lysistrata,' where women enact a sex strike to end the Peloponnesian War. The guests unpack themes of gender dynamics, satirical humor, and the real societal concerns woven into comedy. They also discuss how the play reflects Athenian power structures while offering a critique of traditional gender roles, revealing its relevance even today.
52 snips
May 2, 2024 • 53min
Nikola Tesla
Simon Schaffer, an expert from Cambridge, Jill Jonnes, historian and author of "Empires of Light," and Iwan Morus, a history professor, dive into the intriguing world of Nikola Tesla. They explore Tesla's rise from the Austro-Hungarian Empire to America, where he revolutionized electrical systems and pioneered alternating current. The discussion reveals the debunking of the Edison-Tesla rivalry, highlighting Tesla's genius and eccentricities, and how his showmanship contributed to his legacy as a misunderstood innovator.
