Emperors of Rome

In the tales of Hollywood Crassus will always be the antagonist to the slave hero Spartacus, but is that how would he see himself? A war against slaves is something that no self respecting Roman would like to be pushed into. And yet here we are. Episode CCXL (240) Part II of Crassus Guest: Assoc. Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classic and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

Marcus Licinius Crassus was an influential politician in the late Roman republic, famous for the wealth he accrued and the power that he held. An ally of Caesar and a rival of Pompey, he rose to prominence during the social wars, but would never get the military glory he believed was his owed. Episode CCXXXIX (239) Part I of Crassus Guest: Assoc. Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classic and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

Pompeii has been excavated for hundreds of years, and in that time techniques, practices and philosophies have changed. We’re now finding out a lot more about the city and the people who lived there, and there’s still more to find out. The When in Rome podcast is now fundraising for an upcoming series 8. Please give your support. Guest: Dr Sophie Hay (Archaeologist, Archaeological Park of Pompeii) Professor Steven Ellis (Classics, University of Cincinnati)

The simple act of dinner took on a new dimension for the Emperors. In an place where every meal could be a performance, an Emperor used the chance to reward and impress, intimidate and strike fear, and sometimes all at once. Having dinner with the Emperor was always a great honour, but sometimes you were risking your life. Episode CCXXXVIII (238) Guest: Professor Mary Beard (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

For the Romans the simple act of dinner was so much more than a meal. It was an opportunity to socialise and do business, to see and be seen, and in some cases just to show off. Like everything it is steeped in protocol and tradition, but ultimately it emphasised spending time with others - as every good meal should. Episode CCXXXVII (237) Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

A live recording kicks off with a deep dive into Commodus, the character from Gladiator, and how the film blends history with Hollywood flair. The hosts unpack the artistic liberties taken in the movie, revealing the challenges of capturing Roman history authentically. They also highlight the complex and often misunderstood persona of Commodus, including his tumultuous relationship with his sister Lucilla. Expectations for a sequel are discussed, alongside humorous takes on future gladiators featuring modern sponsorships and the cultural echoes of historical figures.

Dr. Rhiannon Evans, an expert in Roman history and mythology from La Trobe University, discusses the intriguing festival of Faunalia Rustica. She dives into the significance of honoring Faunus, the god revered for protecting rural life. The conversation highlights the contrasting simplicity of rural celebrations against urban complexities. Rhiannon also unpacks Faunus' dual nature as both protector and peril, linking his mythology to the Trojan War and the spread of these traditions across the Roman Empire.

In this discussion, Caillan Davenport, an expert in Roman history and Associate Professor at the Australian National University, explores the political dynamics between Diocletian and Maximian, showcasing their effective governance. He delves into the challenge posed by Carausius amid regional unrest, revealing his desire for inclusion rather than conquest. The conversation also unpacks the significance of Roman medallions, their symbolic meanings, and how challenge coins served to reinforce loyalty and propaganda in a tumultuous era.

Associate Professor Caillan Davenport, an expert in Roman history, discusses the intriguing rise of Diocletian, an emperor with humble origins who transformed Rome into a franchise opportunity. The conversation highlights Diocletian's military strategies and his pivotal partnership with Maximian, showcasing their unique co-emperor dynamic during a troubled time. Davenport also explores how oratorical skills were crucial in shaping imperial identity, especially against the backdrop of early Christian tensions and the Great Persecution.

Join Associate Professor Caillan Davenport, an expert in Roman history, as he unpacks the tumultuous rise of Carus and his sons during a chaotic era in the 3rd century. They discuss the challenges Carus faced from internal strife after Probus's death and his military exploits. The podcast dives into the mysterious circumstances of Carus's sudden demise, shrouded in lightning and legends. Additionally, they explore the complex dynamics of power struggles and the unreliable accounts from the Historia Augusta, shedding light on the fragile state of the Roman Empire.