The Ancients

Dafydd Daniel, a Lecturer in divinity at the University of St. Andrews and an expert on early Christian history, delves into the Council of Nicaea. He discusses how Emperor Constantine's pivotal 325 AD meeting sought to resolve fierce theological disputes, particularly between Arius and Alexander. The resulting Nicene Creed was crucial in defining Christ's divinity and shaping early Christian orthodoxy. Daniel also highlights the profound social and political ramifications of the council, illustrating its enduring legacy in Christianity.

Adrian Goldsworthy, a historian and author specializing in ancient Rome, takes listeners on a captivating journey through the fall of the Western Roman Empire. He discusses the quiet abdication of Romulus Augustulus and the chaotic power struggles that led to the empire's collapse. Goldsworthy highlights notable figures like Odoacer and the internal turmoil that characterized the final days of imperial rule. The conversation reveals how military decline, political chaos, and shifting alliances shaped this pivotal moment in history, marking the end of an era.

Kyle Harper, a professor at the University of Oklahoma and author of 'The Fate of Rome', dives into the role of pandemics in the fall of the Roman Empire. He discusses the devastating effects of the Antonine and Cyprian plagues, linking disease to economic instability and military challenges. Harper explores how climate change intertwined with these pandemics, amplifying existing societal issues. He also examines the impact of luck in history and the transformative political shifts caused by these crises.

Join Peter Heather, a professor at King's College London and expert on barbarian history, as he sheds light on the dramatic invasions that led to the sacking of Rome. Discover how the Huns' movements triggered a massive Gothic migration, resulting in the crucial battles and betrayals that weakened the empire. The nuanced views on these events reveal that the sacks were more complex than often portrayed. Heather explores the Vandals' role and legacy, showcasing how these cultures transformed the fate of Rome forever.

Historian David Gwynn, from Royal Holloway University, delves into the intriguing decline of the Roman Empire. He discusses how internal strife, economic instability, and the rise of Christianity intertwined to unravel the once-mighty civilization. The conversation highlights the reforms by emperors Diocletian and Constantine and the political fragmentation that ensued. Moreover, Gwynn unpacks the pivotal roles of class tensions, military transformations, and economic vulnerabilities, painting a vivid picture of Rome’s dramatic fall.

An astonishing ancient tomb is Ireland's most famous prehistoric monument; Newgrange. Tristan Hughes is joined by Dr Muiris O’Sullivan, an expert on the many Stone Age monuments of Ireland, including Newgrange, and they revel in the astonishing construction techniques used by ancient builders over 5,000 years ago and the intricate rock art such as the triple spiral, which has an intriguing backstory.Archeology is slowly revealing the people who built this fascinating structure, their use of sacred landscapes, and the DNA evidence linking them to other Stone Age communities.Presented by Tristan Hughes. Audio editor is Nick Thomson, the producer is Joseph Knight. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.All music courtesy of Epidemic SoundsThe Ancients is a History Hit podcast.See the treasures of Newgrange in the new History Hit documentary; Prehistoric Ireland: Secrets of the Stone Age now. Sign up to History Hit for this and more original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe. You can take part in our listener survey here: https://insights.historyhit.com/history-hit-podcast-always-on

From clashing rocks to golden treasure, Jason and the Argonauts is the ultimate Greek mythological adventure. But what lies behind the legend? And why has it endured for millennia?In this episode, Tristan Hughes is joined by bestselling author Caroline Lawrence to chart Jason’s epic quest for the Golden Fleece. From harpies and dragons to the witch Circe and the bronze giant Talos, discover the mythical monsters, heroic crossovers and extraordinary journey that make this tale a timeless example of the hero’s journey — from Greece to Colchis and back again.For more of Caroline Lawrence and Jason and the Argonauts on The Ancients:The Minotaur: https://open.spotify.com/episode/72Efg0BmVFYunKg2FsDOQOThe Golden Fleece: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6OtHIiiC87BN4RMyOngK0tPresented by Tristan Hughes. Audio editor is Aidan Lonergan, the producer is Joseph Knight. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.All music from Epidemic SoundsThe Ancients is a History Hit podcast.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe. You can take part in our listener survey here:https://uk.surveymonkey.com/r/6FFT7MK

Laura Spinney, a science journalist and author of 'Proto,' dives into the fascinating world of Indo-European languages and their origins. She explores the evolution from Proto-Indo-European roots to modern languages like Latin and Sanskrit. Spinney discusses the complexities of linguistic history, emphasizing diverse origins rather than a single starting point. Also highlighted are the techniques used by linguists and archaeologists to unravel ancient languages and the impact of the Yamnaya culture on language evolution and trade.

Lindsay Powell, a historian and author specializing in the Early Roman Imperial Period, uncovers the fascinating history of the Praetorian Guard. He discusses their evolution from personal bodyguards to a formidable military force, highlighting their crucial role in Roman power dynamics. Lindsay reveals how figures like Augustus and Tiberius shaped the Guard's functions and how their loyalty could influence political outcomes. The story of Sejanus's betrayal adds drama, emphasizing the complex relationship between power, military authority, and governance in ancient Rome.

In this engaging discussion, Professors Joan Taylor and Helen Bond dive into the life of John the Baptist, a pivotal figure in biblical history. They explore his wilderness lifestyle and radical messages against the backdrop of Roman-occupied Judea. The guests examine John’s linguistic abilities, his relationship with Jesus, and the historical context of his teachings. They also discuss his clash with Herod Antipas and how John’s legacy has been interpreted through the ages, illuminating his influence on both religious thought and artistic representation.