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
Oct 18, 2007 • 42min
The Arabian Nights
Dive into the enchanting world of The Arabian Nights, where tales of Genies, Ali Baba, and Sinbad the Sailor come to life. Discover the origins of these stories, their evolution through time, and their enduring impact on literature. Explore how these magical narratives bridge cultures and continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
Oct 11, 2007 • 42min
The Divine Right of Kings
Delve into the concept of Divine Right of Kings in 17th century Britain, shaping monarchs, inspiring Shakespeare, and influencing thinkers like Locke. Explore the clash between societal expectations and monarchs' sacral authority, the impact of James I and plays like Macbeth on perceptions of monarchy, and the resurgence of divine right during Charles II's reign. Unravel the complex interplay of politics, religion, and literature in defining the legitimacy of rulers.
Oct 4, 2007 • 28min
Antimatter
British physicist Paul Dirac predicted antimatter with his beautiful equations, leading to the discovery of positrons. Despite being mundane in physics, antimatter is used in labs and hospitals. The mystery remains why there isn't more antimatter in the universe, challenging scientists to develop new physics. Guests delve into matter structure, antimatter properties, practical applications, and the interplay between theory and experiment in physics.
Sep 27, 2007 • 42min
Socrates
Explore the eccentric life and influential philosophy of Socrates, a preeminent figure in Western philosophy. Delve into his unconventional teaching methods, his focus on virtue and knowledge, and his enduring impact on philosophical thought. Discover the myth versus reality of 5th century Athens and Socrates' radical ideas that challenged traditional beliefs. Reflect on his simplistic wisdom and self-reflection, offering insights for modern life.
5 snips
Jul 12, 2007 • 28min
Madame Bovary
Explore the controversial themes of adultery and morality in Gustave Flaubert's novel Madame Bovary, as discussed by experts. The trial of Flaubert, the character of Emma, societal influences, and the success of the novel are all analyzed. Dive into the intricate blend of art, morality, and realism that made Madame Bovary a literary sensation
12 snips
Jul 5, 2007 • 42min
The Pilgrim Fathers
Exploring the history and legacy of the Pilgrim Fathers, their interactions with American Indians, and the enduring impact of their settlement. Debunking misconceptions about their status as the first British European settlers. Highlighting the challenges faced by separatist groups in England and their migration to Holland. Reflecting on the negotiation process, treacherous journey, and significance of the Mayflower Compact. Discussing the crucial assistance provided by Indian, Scanto, and the complex relationships between Pilgrims and Native Indians.
16 snips
Jun 28, 2007 • 42min
The Permian-Triassic Boundary
Discover the reign of the Gorgonopsians, fierce predators from 250 million years ago, and the catastrophic Permian-Triassic boundary extinction event. Explore the diverse ecosystems of the Permian era, the role of glyceropteris flora in coal deposits, and the abundance of fungal spores post-extinction. Uncover the impact of volcanic eruptions, methane hydrates, and global warming on mass extinctions, shedding light on cyclical patterns in Earth's history.
Jun 21, 2007 • 42min
Common Sense Philosophy
Delve into the history of common sense philosophy with Marcus Tullius Cicero, Francis Bacon, and Samuel Johnson. Explore the clash between Thomas Reid and David Hume over the nature of knowledge and individuality. Discover how G.E. Moore defended common sense philosophy and its enduring impact on modern philosophers.
Jun 14, 2007 • 28min
Renaissance Astrology
Renaissance Astrology was a pivotal point in history, with astrological beliefs influencing everything from medical practices to political decisions. Astrologers were prominent figures in renaissance courts, universities, and communities, rivaling priests and doctors. The podcast explores the credibility of astrology, its decline in academic circles, clash with religious views, and ongoing practice at high levels.
Jun 7, 2007 • 42min
Siegfried Sassoon
Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the war poet Siegfried Sassoon. In 1916 the Military Cross was awarded to a captain in the Royal Welch Fusiliers for "conspicuous gallantry during a raid on the enemy's trenches". The citation noted that he had braved "rifle and bomb fire" and that "owing to his courage and determination, all the killed and wounded were brought in". The hero in question was the poet, Siegfried Sassoon. And yet a year later, and at great personal risk, Sassoon publicly denounced the conduct of the war in which he had fought so well.Although famous for his bitter, satirical verses and his denunciation of the conduct of the war which landed him in Craiglockhart mental hospital there is much more to this man of contradictions. A mentor to Wilfred Owen, arch enemy of T.S. Eliot and the Modernist movement, his life included a string of homosexual affairs, a failed marriage, a religious conversion and several tumultuous arguments with literary friends. Notably Robert Graves. He was also an obsessive diarist and writer of autobiography and he continued to write poetry until his death, from cancer, in 1967. But how significant a poet is Siegfried Sassoon, what version of Englishness did this half-Jewish, homosexual cricket lover invent for himself and how do you explain the mind of a man who bitterly opposed the First World War, yet fought in it with an almost insane ferocity?With Jean Moorcroft Wilson, Lecturer in English at Birkbeck, University of London and a biographer of Sassoon; Fran Brearton, Reader in English and Assistant Director of the Seamus Heaney Centre for Poetry at the University of Belfast; Max Egremont, a biographer of Siegfried Sassoon
