Literature and History
With millions of downloads, hundreds of hours of soundtracked content, and an overall emphasis on the cultural history behind famous works of literature, Literature and History is one of the most popular independent podcasts on its subject. Starting with Sumerian cuneiform in 3,100 BCE, Literature and History moves forward in chronological order through Assyriology, Egyptology, the Old Testament, Ancient Greece and Rome, the birth of Christianity, and the early Middle Ages. The show's current season is on early Islamic history.
A typical episode (they average about two hours) features a general introduction to a work of literature, then a full summary of that work that expects no prior knowledge, and finally, an analysis of the cultural, biographical, and historical forces that gave rise to the work in question. Original symphonic and ambient background music is woven throughout each show, and all episodes offer free full, illustrated, footnoted transcriptions as well as quizzes for purposes of review. The show has no advertisements, and its host takes pride in a professional approach that avoids chitchat and ephemera and gets straight to the educational content. You can listen to the episodes in any order, although most listeners begin at the beginning and proceed from there, as the podcast itself is chronologically organized.
Doug Metzger finished his Ph.D. in literature in 2011. His chief scholarly interest, following his dissertation work, continues to be 19th-century realism and postbellum American philosophy.
Latest episodes
May 31, 2018 • 2h 13min
Episode 54: Out of Troy (Virgil's Aeneid, Books 1-3)
Discover the beginnings of Virgil's Aeneid as Aeneas embarks on his epic journey from Troy to Italy, facing divine challenges. Hear about his emotional refuge in Carthage with Queen Dido, exploring themes of duty and compassion. Delve into the cunning deception that leads to Troy's ruin and the heart-wrenching loss Aeneas endures. Encounter storms and harpies that test their resolve, and uncover the interconnected tales of epic heroes. The discussion highlights the significance of these stories and their lasting impact on literature.
May 4, 2018 • 1h 53min
Episode 53: Then Came Hard Iron (Virgil's Georgics)
Delve into Virgil's 'Georgics,' where agricultural poetry meets reflections on Roman life. Discover the nostalgia for simpler times amidst urban corruption and the decline of agrarian ideals. Explore the philosophical contrasts between Varro and Virgil, highlighting the significance of farming knowledge. Marvel at the musicality and rich language of Virgil's verse while uncovering themes of loss and resilience in rural existence. Plus, intriguing tales of bee armies and the peculiar concept of Bugonia add depth to this captivating exploration.
Apr 12, 2018 • 1h 50min
Episode 52: White Flowers Die (Virgil's Eclogues)
Explore the mysterious darkness in Virgil's Eclogues, filled with unrequited love, complex emotions, and influences from earlier pastoral poetry. Dive into the mythical abilities, prophetic gifts, and historical context of the ancient Roman poet Virgil. Discover the intriguing themes of love, loss, and rural life intricately woven into Virgil's influential pastoral poetry.
Mar 19, 2018 • 1h 43min
Episode 51: Horace and Augustan Age Poetry
Horace, the iconic Roman poet from 65-8 BCE, shaped the Augustan Age with his unique blend of satire and literary criticism. In this engaging conversation, he humorously reflects on his self-conscious poetic persona. Discussing the evolution of satire, he contrasts his moralistic style with earlier satirists. Horace also delves into the interplay between desire and morality in his works, offering personal insights on human relationships. With wit and depth, he critiques societal norms while championing themes like 'carpe diem' and the challenges of rural life.
Feb 19, 2018 • 1h 51min
Episode 50: Our Brutal Age (Horace's Poetry)
In this engaging conversation, the Roman poet Horace, who thrived during Augustus's reign, shares insights from his transformative era. He discusses the tension between artistic freedom and political constraints, highlighting how Rome's upheavals influenced his work. Horace reflects on his humility and resilience amid personal and societal challenges, alongside the horrors of civil war portrayed in his poetry. The dynamics of literary patronage in Augustan Rome and the absurdity of self-promotion among poets also come to light, blending humor with depth.
Jan 31, 2018 • 1h 55min
Episode 49: The Strange Roots of Love (Catullus' Poetry)
Explore the fascinating world of Catullus, Rome's pioneering poet, as his tumultuous love life unfolds through raw emotions and scandals. Discover how his infatuation with Claudia Metelli shaped his groundbreaking love poetry and the intricate dynamics of society at that time. Delve into themes of betrayal, rivalry, and the complexities of human relationships, alongside the influence of past poets like Callimachus. This journey reveals not only the personal struggles of love but also a critique of the political landscape in ancient Rome.
Jan 15, 2018 • 1h 35min
Episode 48: The Right and the Expedient (Cicero's Career, 62-43 BCE)
Mark Antony, a powerful young general in ancient Rome, confronts the legendary Cicero during a period of intense political strife. They delve into Cicero's controversial decisions during the Catiline Conspiracy and his struggle to uphold Republican values amid the chaos of civil war. The discussion highlights Cicero’s shift from a political leader to a philosophical thinker, exploring his powerful writings and rhetorical battles against Antony. Their fierce rivalry illustrates the tumultuous transition from a Republic to a nascent monarchy in Rome.
Dec 20, 2017 • 1h 42min
Episode 47: O Tempora, O Mores (Cicero's Career, 80-62 BCE)
Dive into the tumultuous world of ancient Rome through the eyes of Cicero, a master orator and statesman. Witness his courtroom battles and political maneuvers amidst chaos and corruption. Discover his passionate cries for justice as he confronts societal decay with poignant rhetoric. Explore the gripping events of the Catiline conspiracy, where his powerful speeches ignited fierce debates on free speech and justice. The podcast culminates in a playful, rhythmic homage to Cicero's legacy, blending history with modern flair.
Dec 9, 2017 • 1h 34min
Episode 46: The Republic at Twilight (Cicero's Early Life)
Cicero (106-43 BCE) was the undisputed master of the Latin language. During his first thirty years, he witnessed events that heralded the Republic’s end. Episode 46 Quiz https://literatureandhistory.com/quiz-046/ Episode 46 Transcription: https://literatureandhistory.com/episode-046-the-republic-at-twilight Song https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PWgg9aMq7gs Bonus Content: https://literatureandhistory.com/bonus-content Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/literatureandhistory YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@literatureandhistorypodcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/literatureandhistorypodcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/literatureandhistory TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lahpodcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/lahpodcast.bsky.social X https://x.com/lahpodcast
Nov 16, 2017 • 1h 50min
Episode 45: The Uncuttables (Lucretius' On the Nature of Things and Epicureanism)
Explore the profound thoughts of Lucretius and his impactful work 'On the Nature of Things.' Discover how Epicurean philosophy challenges ancient religious norms, advocating for tranquility and deeper joys. Delve into the origins of atomic theory and its cultural implications, as well as the luxurious Villa of the Papyri, a center for leisure and intellectual discourse. Additionally, uncover the tensions between Epicureanism and early Christianity, alongside Lucretius's views on death and the transition from polytheism to materialism.
