Instant Classics

Dive into the raucous festival of Saturnalia, where the Romans flipped societal roles, serving dessert to their slaves instead of the other way around. Uncover the darker side of gift-giving, revealing presents like enslaved people alongside food and socks. Hear about the infamous rivalry during Saturnalia when Nero humiliated his brother Britannicus. Explore surprising connections—and differences—between Saturnalia and modern Christmas traditions, debunking myths along the way. It’s a fascinating mix of revelry and grim history.

Discover what a day at the theatre in Ancient Athens truly entailed! From military parades to the dramatic spectacles of tragedy and comedy, the festivals were a grand display of civic pride. Learn about the role of masks, the significance of Dionysus, and how the state funded these performances. Explore the participation of men, the potential attendance of women, and the complex ritual context that surrounded these events. The sheer scale and purpose of Athenian theatre reveal a society intertwined with performance, politics, and public spectacle.

What made the ancient Romans laugh? Discover the surviving Roman jokes that challenge our perceptions of their society. From the irreverent humor in Seneca’s works to themes of identity and inheritance, the discussion reveals the complexities behind their jokes. Examples from the Philogelos showcase a surprising range of topics—from bodily humor to regional stereotypes. The hosts even delve into why some ancient gags still resonate with us today, culminating in a memorable reveal of a favorite joke. Will it get a laugh?

Discover the fascinating history of Roman London in an actual amphitheatre beneath the Guildhall. Explore how the city became a multicultural hub after the Romans arrived in 43 CE. Learn about Boudica's fiery revolt and the archaeological evidence of her destruction. Unearth quirky fragments of Roman life, like wax tablets revealing daily transactions and the diverse origins of its inhabitants. The hosts also debunk myths about amphitheatre shows, emphasizing local entertainment instead of gladiators. This rich tapestry of history continues to shape modern London.

Explore the enigmatic world of Athena, the Greek goddess who defies strict definitions. Delve into her multifaceted roles—wisdom, a warrior, and a fashion icon—while questioning her status as a female role model. Discover the origins of phrases like 'under the aegis' and the surprising link between Athena and modern branding. Unpack her celibate nature and the implications of her relationship with patriarchal ideals. Ultimately, Athena emerges as a complex figure, both a helper of heroes and a mouthpiece for male authority.

Dive into the world of Athena, the multifaceted Greek goddess who defies stereotypes as a female role model and divine strategist. Discover her role as the patron of Athens and unearth intriguing questions about gender dynamics in ancient Greece. Explore the origins of phrases like 'under the aegis' and the connections between Athena and modern icons. Through captivating discussions, Mary and Charlotte unravel Athena's complexities, revealing why this goddess remains a symbol of empowerment and intrigue today.

Explore the fierce legacy of Boudica, Britain’s warrior queen, who led a revolt against Roman rule. Uncover how her story, largely shaped by Roman historians, straddles the line between myth and reality. Discover the intricate political landscape of first-century Britain and the events that ignited Boudica’s rebellion. From her dramatic rise as queen of the Iceni to the fiery destruction of Colchester, this intriguing narrative highlights her indomitable spirit and challenges the portrayal of powerful women in history.

Explore the mystical Underworld as Mary and Charlotte delve into ancient myths, examining heroic journeys and the eerie River Styx. They discuss the transformations heroes like Odysseus and Aeneas undergo, revealing deep meanings behind their descents. The hosts reflect on how these tales have shaped modern literature, from Dante to contemporary works. Discover the haunting imagery of Charon, ghostly shades, and the emotional struggles of unfulfilled encounters with loved ones, all while pondering what these myths say about death and desire.

Dive into the eerie world of ancient ghost stories from Greece and Rome. Discover Pliny the Younger's tale of a haunted house featuring a determined philosopher ghostbuster. Learn about a seductive vampire story that highlights the blurred lines between love and horror. Uncover the bizarre Roman exorcism method involving beans and the chilling connection of Remus's spirit to the founding of Rome. These timeless tales reveal a fascinating overlap between ancient and modern beliefs about the supernatural.

Get ready for a thrilling trip back in time! The hosts dive into the vibrant nightlife of Roman London, exploring everything from gladiatorial games to gossip in public baths. They reveal why the historic Guildhall is the perfect setting for this special live recording, nestled within the remains of the ancient Roman Amphitheatre. Plus, there's a chance to meet the hosts in person and share a drink after the event. Don't miss this unique opportunity to experience history where it all happened!