Explore the tragic demise of Carthage at the hands of Rome in 146 BC, including the devastating destruction of the city, the dispersal of its people, and the erasure of its existence from history. Learn about the mythological origins of Carthage and its connection to Rome's founding story, as well as the rise and fall of Carthage's dominance in trade and conflict with Rome. Discover Hannibal's strategic brilliance in battle, the Romans' perception of him as a destructive force, and the symbolic conquest that marked a shift in Roman imperialism.

Melvyn Bragg discusses the fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm with Juliette Wood, Marina Warner and Tony Phelan. The German siblings who in 1812 published a collection of fairy tales including Rapunzel, Hansel and Gretel, Cinderella and Rumpelstiltskin. But the Grimm versions are surprisingly, sometimes shockingly, different. Cinderella has no fairy godmother, her ugly sisters are not ugly but they do have their eyes pecked out by pigeons. Sleeping Beauty does not have an evil stepmother, Rapunzel is pregnant and Frog Princes do not get kissed but thrown against walls. They may not be the fairy tales as we know them, but without the Brothers Grimm we might not know them at all. But why did two respectable German linguists go chasing after fairy stories, what do the stories tell us about German culture and romantic nationalism at the time and why do these ever-evolving tales of horror, wonder and fantasy continue to hold us in thrall?With Juliette Wood, Associate Lecturer in Folklore at Cardiff University; Marina Warner, Professor in the Department of Literature, Film and Theatre Studies at the University of Essex; Tony Phelan, Professor in German at Keble College, Oxford.

Melvyn Bragg and guests delve into Jonathan Swift's A Modest Proposal, discussing its satirical brilliance and shocking revelations. They explore Swift's use of numbers to criticize Irish landlords, his controversial legacy in Irish nationalism, and the rise of pamphleteering in the 18th century. The podcast provides insights into Swift's character, mind, and his dark yet thought-provoking perspectives on society and religion.

Melvyn Bragg discusses the evolution of history writing with guests. They explore ancient epics, medieval hagiographies, and modern deconstructions. The conversation touches on the transition from Herodotus to Rome-centric narratives, the historical foundations of Christianity, the intersection of Christian and classical histories, Renaissance shifts, and the representation of women in historical inquiry.

Explore Thoreau's love for nature, self-reliance, and simple living in a secluded cabin. Discover his impact on historical figures like Martin Luther King and Gandhi. Delve into his anti-slavery activism, unique farming methods, and deep connection to nature.

Explore Darwin's life and work, from his botanical experiments to his global correspondence network. Delve into his studies on human evolution and sexual selection, highlighting his visionary outlook on science. Discover how Darwin's legacy transformed traditional beliefs and his impact on biology and society.

Melvyn Bragg and guests celebrate Darwin's legacy and the impact of 'On the Origin of Species'. They discuss Darwin's hesitant approach to evolution, the parallel theories of Darwin and Wallace, the global influence of Darwin's work, the Oxford Evolution Debate, and the ongoing debate between science and religion sparked by Darwin's book.

Experts Jim Moore, Steve Jones, and David Norman discuss Darwin's voyage on the Beagle, his observations in South America, the influence of giant sloths on his theory of evolution, his relationship with Grant, and the personal struggles and secrecy surrounding his groundbreaking ideas.

Darwin biographer Jim Moore discusses Charles Darwin's early life, his transition from beetle collector to naturalist, the enduring friendship with his cousin, and the influences that shaped his revolutionary theory of evolution. The podcast explores Darwin's mentors, his journey into science, and the intellectual shifts that led to his groundbreaking work.

Delving into Boethius' journey from despair to enlightenment, the podcast explores the consolations of philosophy in times of adversity. It discusses the impact of philosophical perspectives on sorrow and loss, the influence of Boethius on medieval literature and courtly love, and the philosophical views on liberation and rationality. The conversation also touches on Stoicism's influence on Western philosophy and how philosophers like Boethius navigate politics and find solace through philosophical contemplation.