Emperors of Rome

Join Associate Professor Caillan Davenport, a Roman history expert, as he delves into the tumultuous late third century. Discuss intriguing power dynamics following Emperor Aurelian's assassination and the Senate's waning influence. Explore Tacitus’s unique leadership style, from military wins in Thrace to his audacious choice to demolish his home for the public good. Unpack the reliability of ancient sources detailing Tacitus's life and examine the chaotic circumstances surrounding his assassination. A compelling look at a pivotal moment in Roman history!

The Bona Dea was a goddess of Rome, whose celebrations were the secret domain of elite women. To our male Roman sources they were mysterious and magical, that is until Clodius Pulcher decided he would gate crash. Tickets are now on sale for our special 10th anniversary live screening of the movie Gladiator! 19th October at the Thornbury Picture House in Melbourne. Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

Caesar was a man who was careful of his image, and in his accounts of the Gallic Wars he records his skill and competence on the battle field. He also made a point of giving himself a credible nemesis, with the barbarian Vercingetorix taking the centre stage. Recorded live in Albury at the Albury LibraryMuseum on 24th June, 2024. Guests: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

Rhiannon Evans, an Associate Professor specializing in Classics and Ancient History, joins Nick Bisley, a Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences. They delve into the Catiline Conspiracy's relevance to modern politics, drawing parallels with figures like Bill Clinton and Donald Trump. The discussion highlights themes of populism, gender roles, and political narratives from ancient Rome to today. They caution against overinterpretation while emphasizing how historical power struggles resonate in current American democracy.

Catiline’s name is often used as a byword for villainy, and over the years has been told and retold by different authors with different agendas. To some he is a villain, a traitor to the state. To others he’s a hero, standing up for the little guy. Part VII of The Catiline Conspiracy Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University).

Cicero may have won the battle against Catiline but he wouldn’t win the war. With too many enemies in the senate he makes a tactical retreat, leaving his beloved Rome for the safety of the coast of Greece. Part VI of The Catiline Conspiracy Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University).

In this engaging discussion, Rhiannon Evans, an Associate Professor of Classics and Ancient History at La Trobe University, dives into the fierce rivalry between Cicero and Catiline. They explore Cicero's struggle to defend Roman ideals while Catiline showcases his valor on the battlefield. The podcast also touches on the moral dilemmas of loyalty versus authority, the pivotal role of the Gallic tribe Alabroses, and the charged trial of Catiline's conspirators, ultimately revealing the complexities of leadership during a time of crisis.

Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans discusses Catiline's rebellion against Cicero in ancient Rome, highlighting the Senate's response, the intrigue of the conspiracy, and the dynamics between the two figures. They explore the implications of Cicero's actions, the debate surrounding his motives, and Catiline's dramatic departure from Rome, claiming to fight for the oppressed.

Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans delves into the intense rivalry between Catiline and Cicero during the election for consulship in 63 BCE. The conspiracy against Rome unfolds, involving toxic relationships, political intrigue, and the unraveling of a vast plot to challenge Rome's authority.

Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans discusses Catiline's involvement in multiple failed plots in Rome. The podcast delves into the tumultuous Catiline Conspiracy of 64 BCE, highlighting political intrigue, power struggles, and the complex web of events leading to the pivotal moment in Roman history.