Cost of Glory
Alex Petkas
The most influential biographies ever written, admired by leaders, creators, soldiers, and thinkers for nearly 2,000 years: Plutarch’s Parallel lives. Essential listening for anyone striving after greatness. Alex Petkas, former professor of ancient philosophy and history, revives and dramatically retells these unforgettable stories for modern audiences. The subjects are statesmen, generals, orators, and founders; pious and profane, stoics and hedonists. The stakes bear on the future of Western civilization. The cost of glory is always great. Visit costofglory.com to find out more.
Episodes
Mentioned books
27 snips
Apr 30, 2024 • 1h 58min
85 - Pompey III: Fields of Pharsalus
Exploring Caesar and Pompey's intense rivalry, the shifting power dynamics in Rome, the battle of Pharsalus with strategic moves and brave centurions, and Pompey's dramatic downfall from seeking refuge to facing betrayal and assassination.
28 snips
Apr 9, 2024 • 1h 49min
84 - Pompey II: Empire of Venus
Explore Pompey the Great's conquests, governance, and political maneuverings in ancient Rome. From battles with pirates to diplomatic efforts in the East, delve into his journey through hostile lands like the Caucasus. Witness power struggles with influential figures like Caesar and Crassus, and the cultural contributions and personal tragedies that shaped Pompey's legacy.
17 snips
Mar 19, 2024 • 1h 22min
83 - Pompey I: Kid Butcher
Discover the rise of Pompey, the renowned Roman general, from his early conquests to his confrontations with traitors. Explore the political turmoil in ancient Rome as Marius and Sulla clash for power. Follow Pompey's strategic triumphs in the Sertorian War, his battle against bold pirates, and his political maneuvers to secure authority amidst Senate opposition.
7 snips
Mar 1, 2024 • 31min
82 - How to Tell a Flatterer From a Friend
Explore the significance of choosing honest companions over flatterers for personal growth. Learn how to distinguish true friends from flatterers through historical examples and philosophical insights. Discover the impact of tribalism on virtue perception and the deceptive tactics of flattery. Explore the art of offering constructive feedback to friends while maintaining virtuous friendships.
Feb 14, 2024 • 51min
81 - Spartacus — with Barry Strauss
Spartacus expert Barry Strauss discusses how the slave revolt almost failed, leadership lessons from Spartacus, and his influence on modern leaders.
26 snips
Jan 31, 2024 • 31min
80 - The Best Stoic Sentences
Explore the importance of reading and extracting practical lessons from texts. Learn about crafting memorable sentences and the writings of Seneca and Plutarch. Delve into stoic quotes and their philosophical meanings, including laughing at oneself and ruling oneself before ruling others. Discover the misconception of changing scenery solving inner problems and the acceptance of death in stoic quotes.
Jan 18, 2024 • 1h
79 - Spencer Klavan: Why Achilles Plays the Lyre
In this engaging conversation, Spencer Klavan, a classicist, podcaster, and author, discusses the unexpected connection between Achilles, the brutal warrior, and the art of music. He shares what draws people to ancient texts and critiques the theory of 'art for art's sake.' Klavan delves into how epic heroes shape our understanding of morality and the importance of literature in personal development. He even offers literature recommendations for busy dads eager for inspiration, showcasing the timeless relevance of classic works.
14 snips
Jan 3, 2024 • 1h 11min
78 - Lucullus III: Betrayal
Dive into the dramatic fall of the legendary Lucullus, who once triumphed over King Tigranes but faced betrayals that thwarted his ambitions. Explore the tensions of military leadership and the complexities of personal relationships that led to his downfall. The podcast unveils the intricate dynamics of ancient political strife, leaving listeners to ponder the legacies we create. With reflections on gratitude and the importance of connections, this journey through history is both captivating and poignant.
11 snips
Dec 20, 2023 • 1h 2min
77 - Lucullus II: Armenia
The podcast dives into Lucullus's brilliant military strategies against Mithridates, shedding light on the power of focus and discipline in leadership. It recounts a near-assassination plot that highlights the role of luck and vigilance. The grim fates of royal women caught in the conflict reveal the human cost of war. A thrilling recount of the Battle of Tigranocerta showcases how Lucullus's cunning overcame overwhelming odds, proving that strategy can outsmart sheer numbers. Themes of sleep and the value of bad news also make a surprising appearance.
10 snips
Dec 13, 2023 • 1h 3min
76 - Lucullus I: Starvation
Learn about the fascinating life of Lucullus, a Roman conqueror known for his lavish lifestyle and military achievements. The podcast explores his strategies for success, the importance of recognition, and the consequences of poor choices in relationships. It also discusses the significance of learning ancient languages, and highlights Lucullus' tactics and successes in his war against Mithridates.
