You're Dead to Me

Professor Edith Hall, a leading expert on ancient Greece, and comedian Dan Schreiber explore the fascinating life of Aristotle. They discuss his transformation from student to philosopher, his groundbreaking contributions to biology, and the complexities of his mentorship of Alexander the Great. Their conversation is sprinkled with humor as they dissect Aristotle's philosophical ideas on ethics and happiness, while also critiquing his views on women and societal roles. This lively dialogue reveals Aristotle's immense impact on Western thought and invites reflection on his controversial legacy.

Explore the dark side of wellness, revealing shocking stories from yoga retreats marred by exploitation. Delight in the rich history of Christmas and the Thames Frost Fair of 1814, capturing the joy of the season. Reflect on festive traditions and the bittersweet shift back to everyday life marked by the first bin collection. Dive into intriguing tales of Victorian customs and the history of chocolate, while looking ahead to exciting new discussions in the upcoming series.

Dr. Hannah Thuraisingam Robbins, an expert in musical theatre and race, joins comedian Desiree Burch to navigate the fascinating history of Broadway. They explore the origins of musical theatre and highlight its powerful storytelling. The discussion touches on racial dynamics, the evolution from early adaptations to the mega musical phenomenon, and the impact of African American artists in shaping this vibrant art form. With humor and insight, they reveal Broadway's intricate relationship with both creativity and commerce.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Eleanor Barraclough, a historian specializing in medieval Norse history, reveals the intriguing life of Leif Erikson, possibly the first European to reach America. The conversation dives into the legendary sagas that shape our understanding of Erikson's adventures. They explore Viking shipbuilding, the women warriors highlighted in Greenland sagas, and the complicated interactions between Norse explorers and indigenous peoples. Archaeological evidence also sheds light on Viking presence in North America, blending history with humor.

In this thought-provoking discussion, Dr. Isobel Wisher, a postdoctoral researcher specializing in early symbolic behavior and Upper Paleolithic cave art, joins comedian Seán Burke and host Greg Jenner. They delve into the fascinating world of cave art, revealing how our ancestors expressed creativity with vivid depictions like lions chasing bison. The conversation uncovers the techniques used, the significance of animal portrayals, and the potential social roles of these artworks in prehistoric communities. A journey into our artistic roots!

Professor Michelle Sauer, an expert in medieval studies and queer theory, joins comedian Sophie Duker and host Greg Jenner to unveil the captivating life of Benedetta Carlini, a 17th-century Italian nun. They discuss her miraculous visions, including stigmata, and the intrigue surrounding her secret relationship with another nun, Bartolomea. The conversation digs into the historical contexts of female same-sex relationships while humorously imagining Benedetta as a modern social media influencer, making this tale of miracles and scandal both enlightening and entertaining.

Join Dr. Annie Gray, a renowned food historian, and comedian Ed Gamble as they dive into the life of Alexis Soyer, the pioneering 19th-century chef. Discover how Soyer's innovative portable stove revolutionized kitchens and how he blended cooking with celebrity culture. Explore his heartwarming yet tragic love story that inspired culinary creativity, plus his philanthropic efforts during the Irish Potato Famine. This lively discussion uncovers the forgotten legacy of a man who shaped modern cuisine in extraordinary ways.

Dr. Satona Suzuki, a specialist in Japanese history from SOAS, joins comedian Ahir Shah to unravel the intricacies of the Edo period. They discuss the transformation of Edo into Tokyo under the Tokugawa shogunate, shedding light on the vibrant cultural scene, societal hierarchies, and the complexities of foreign relations. The conversation dives into the nuances of art, theater, and the era’s legacy, drawing parallels to modern Japanese culture, including the influence of manga. It's a fascinating journey through a pivotal era in Japan's history!

Dr. Iain MacInnes, an expert on medieval Scottish history, and Marjolein Robertson, a comedian and storyteller, explore the life of Robert Bruce, a pivotal figure in Scotland's quest for independence. They delve into Bruce's turbulent beginnings, his strategic alliances, and epic military victories against English forces. The discussion highlights the dramatic political intrigue of the era, including Bruce's clashes with the papacy and his legacy's impact on Scotland's future. Injecting humor, Robertson lightens the historical narrative, making it both engaging and enlightening.

Join Dr. Stephen Kershaw, an Oxford lecturer and author, alongside comedian Josie Long, as they unravel the mysteries of the Minoan civilization. They dive into the legendary tale of Theseus and the Minotaur while revealing the truths behind life in Bronze Age Crete. Explore fascinating aspects like bull leaping rituals, intricate Minoan fashion, and their complex economy driven by trade and maritime skills. The discussions highlight how archaeology sheds light on their rich culture and intertwined myths.