Discussions on the innovative Etruscan civilization in Italy, their origins from Anatolia, economic foundations in mining, distinctive artistry in tomb structures, reevaluating the role of women in society, and their influence on Roman culture and history.

Delving into the unique aspects of Shinto, this podcast explores the concept of kami, the coexistence of Shinto with Buddhism, and its influence on Japanese culture. The discussion touches on the origins of Shinto, its connection to purity rituals, the variety of Shinto shrines, and its evolution through Japanese history, including its ties to fascism and post-World War II transformation.

Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Hippocratic Oath, its origins, and impact on Western medicine. They explore the ethical complexities, historical debates, and evolution of the oath from ancient times to modern contexts. The podcast dives into the enigma of Hippocrates, ancient medical texts, debunking superstitious beliefs, and the significance of the oath in different historical periods.

Explore the advanced Minoan civilization through the archaeological discoveries at Knossos, their writing system, and cultural practices. Discover the social dynamics of burial sites in the Bronze Age and explore the enigmatic Snake Goddesses of Knossos. Challenge the traditional view of centralized authority in Minoan Civilization and decipher their unique writing systems. Learn about the impact of a volcanic eruption on the Minoan civilization and unravel the mysteries surrounding this ancient culture.

Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Tennyson's 'In Memoriam'. They explore Tennyson's grief over the loss of a friend, the impact of scientific discoveries on religious beliefs, and Queen Victoria's admiration for the poem. The podcast delves into Tennyson's family history, his time at Cambridge University, the intellectual bond with his friend Hallam, and themes of loss and grief in his poetry. It also touches on Tennyson's connection with nature and the lasting influence of 'In Memoriam' on modern poetry.

Explore the controversial ideas of Malthusianism, with discussions on population growth surpassing resources, historical impacts on urban centers, Malthus's upbringing and influences, strategies for population control like delayed marriage, and the contrast between Malthus and Godwin's viewpoints on societal issues.

Medieval philosopher John Wyclif and the Lollards are discussed, highlighting their opposition to the Roman Church, English Bible translation, and disputes over Church teachings like transubstantiation. The podcast explores Wyclif's background, ties to John of Gaunt, radical preaching, the Blackfrize Council's impact, and the collaborative effort behind the Wyclif Bible and its consequences on the Lawlards movement and the Reformation period.

Experts discuss the historical origins of infectious diseases, from ancient outbreaks to modern viruses like HIV and Ebola. They explore the differences between bacteria and viruses, the body's immune response to pathogens, and the impact of human behavior on disease evolution. Genomics helps uncover ancient diseases, while advancements in modern medicine continue the battle against infectious diseases.

Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Battle of Stamford Bridge.In the first week of 1066 the English king, Edward the Confessor, died. A young nobleman, Harold Godwinson, claimed that Edward had nominated him his successor, and seized the throne. But he was not the only claimant: in France the powerful Duke of Normandy, William, believed that he was the rightful king, and prepared to invade England.As William amassed his forces on the other side of the Channel, however, an army led by the Norwegian king Harald Hardrada invaded from the North Sea. Harold quickly marched north and confronted the Norsemen, whose leaders included his own brother Tostig. The English won an emphatic victory; but barely three weeks later Harold was dead, killed at Hastings, and the Norman Conquest had begun.With: John HinesProfessor of Archaeology at Cardiff UniversityElizabeth RoweLecturer in Scandinavian History of the Viking Age at Clare Hall, University of CambridgeStephen BaxterReader in Medieval History at King's College LondonProducer: Thomas Morris.

Xenophon, an Athenian writer and friend of Socrates, led the Ten Thousand troops. The podcast explores his Anabasis journey, philosophy, ambition to become a despot, post-campaign life, moralizing texts, and lasting influence on leadership and military education.