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
12 snips
Nov 29, 2023 • 21min
75 - How to Turn People Down (or, "On Cringe")
Exploring the concept of dissopia and the importance of saying no. Discussing disastrous outcomes of yielding to requests. Emphasizing the need to practice saying no and fortify against compliancy influenced by friends and family.
5 snips
Nov 17, 2023 • 20min
74 - Crassus Aftermath, Takeaways, Sources
Discover what happened to Crassus' captured soldiers and his family, lessons from his successes and failures, and the legacy of his men possibly reaching Li Qian, China. Also, explore valuable ancient and modern sources for understanding Roman history and receive book recommendations.
10 snips
Oct 28, 2023 • 1h 26min
73 - Crassus III: Battle of Carrhae
Explore Crassus' famous campaign against the Parthians and what motivated it. Learn about the Battle of Carrhae, how the Parthians overwhelmed the Roman lines, and the tragic climax involving Marcus Licinius Crassus. Delve into his family life, connections with influential figures, and the secretive meetings in Luca. Discover Crassus' decision for a great Parthian war, the challenges faced by him and his soldiers, and the implications of winning a victory over the Parthians.
19 snips
Oct 5, 2023 • 1h 14min
72 - Crassus II: Puppet Master
Marcus Licinius Crassus, Richest Man in Rome, takes on new allies Catiline and Julius Caesar. Topics include defusing resentment, power of debt in Rome, playing for hard prizes, Cicero's mortgage, and political tensions with Pompey and Cato.
24 snips
Sep 13, 2023 • 1h 19min
71 - Crassus I: Richest Man in Rome
Learn about the life of Marcus Crassus, the richest man in Rome and his extravagant parties. Explore the political rivalry in ancient Rome and the rise of Pompey and Crassus. Discover the fascinating story of Spartacus, his bravery, and the tactics used to end the slave revolt.
Aug 17, 2023 • 16min
70 - How to Praise Oneself Inoffensively - Part 2
This podcast explores how to praise oneself in an inoffensive way, using historical examples of great leaders from Greece and Rome such as Phocion, Agathocles, Pericles, Sulla, and Themistocles. It emphasizes the importance of praising oneself during difficult times, attributing success to luck or the favor of the gods, and adjusting compliments to appear humble and likeable.
Jul 27, 2023 • 14min
69 - How to Praise Oneself Inoffensively
You know you want to do it. But how? Plutarch offers a few key examples.
6 snips
Jul 11, 2023 • 51min
68 - Catiline III: The Last Stand
The podcast explores Rome's Catilinarian conspiracy in 63 BC, highlighting the sad state of the city and the reasons behind the conspiracy. It discusses wealth inequality, the lack of self-restraint in politics, and the legitimacy of Catiline's cause. The podcast also discusses sparing the wicked, escape attempts, and fiery speeches. It delves into the Battle of Pistoia and Catiline's last stand, as well as the bravery and sacrifice displayed by his army.
15 snips
Jul 4, 2023 • 41min
67 - Catiline II: Cicero's Moment
Get into one of the great moments of history - highlights from Cicero's speech Against Catiline. Featuring a quote or two from the original Latin.
13 snips
Jun 22, 2023 • 1h 10min
66 - Catiline I: Rome's Deadliest Conspiracy
The Conspiracy to overthrow the Roman Republic at the height of its power. Catiline and his associates challenge Cicero and Cato. Rumors were that Crassus and Caesar were involved... Part I: Highlights from Sallust's War with Catiline.ANNOUNCING - New Megaseries: Visions of Caesar. I am beginning an arc on the biographies of all the most prominent of the era of Caesar, including The Man himself. Crassus, Pompey, Cato, Caesar, Cicero, Brutus, Antony.
