Reverend Professor Lloyd Llewellyn Jones, an expert in ancient history and the Bible, dives into the captivating tales of the Three Wise Men. He reveals their multifaceted identities, exploring their symbolism, cultural impacts, and role as early recognizers of Christ. The conversation also highlights the significance of the Star of Bethlehem and its connections to prophecy. Artistic representations from antiquity to the Renaissance are examined, showcasing how these narratives have evolved throughout history, while emphasizing their enduring legacy in modern perspectives.

Join Dr. Jodi Magness, a Professor at the University of North Carolina and an expert on ancient Jewish history, as she unpacks the fascinating origins of Hanukkah. Delve into the gripping story of the Maccabean Revolt against the oppressive Seleucid Empire over 2,000 years ago. Discover how the revolt shaped Jewish identity amid Hellenistic pressures and the pivotal actions of figures like Mattathias and Judah Maccabee. This rich narrative explores themes of defiance, cultural survival, and the historical significance of Jerusalem's temple rededication.

Dr. Richard Bulliet, a Professor Emeritus at Columbia University renowned for his work in archaeology, and Dr. Kai James, a computational engineer who employs modeling to validate historical theories, delve into the origins of the wheel. They propose a fascinating idea that prehistoric miners in the Carpathian Mountains engineered the wheel around 6,000 years ago. The discussion covers the wheel's impact on mining and transport, the cultural shifts during the Copper to Bronze Age, and the intricate relationship between early technology and environmental factors.

In a captivating discussion, Dr. Tom Dillehay, an esteemed archaeologist from Vanderbilt University, shares his groundbreaking research on early human migration to South America. He highlights stunning discoveries at Monte Verde, including ancient tools and mastodon remains, which challenge the Clovis-first theory, suggesting humans thrived in diverse habitats over 14,500 years ago. The conversation delves into the intricate survival strategies and environmental adaptations of these early communities, revealing their sophisticated relationship with nature and shedding light on our shared human history.

Lucy Shipley, an author and expert on Etruscan culture, dives into the fascinating history of the Etruscans, the dominant civilization before Rome's rise. She discusses their decline influenced by social dynamics and interactions with neighboring cultures. The tragic tale of Lucretia is explored, highlighting the cultural clashes between Rome and Etruria. Shipley also examines archaeological findings that reveal Etruscan daily life and artistic expression, illustrating their enduring legacy despite eventual subjugation by Rome.

Prof. Lloyd Llewellyn-Jones, an expert in ancient Mesopotamian history, dives deep into the origins of the Tower of Babel story, exploring its connections to linguistic diversity and divine intervention. He reveals how ancient ziggurats inspired this iconic tale and discusses the cultural implications of the myth. The conversation also highlights the historical context of the Jewish exile in Babylon, shedding light on how this journey influenced their adaptation to a new culture while yearning for their homeland.

Dr. David Meltzer, a Professor of Prehistory at Southern Methodist University, shares his expertise on Ice Age North America. He vividly describes how early hunter-gatherers navigated a world inhabited by woolly mammoths and saber-toothed tigers. The discussion highlights the significant role of ancient DNA in understanding human migration and extinction events. Meltzer also dives into the survival strategies of these early humans, their adaptation to diverse landscapes, and the controversial links between hunting practices and megafauna extinction.

Join Dr. Alex Imrie, a historian from Edinburgh University, and Matilda Brown, a PhD candidate focusing on Severan Empresses, as they unravel the intriguing saga of Emperor Macrinus. Discover how this North African-born knight seized power from Caracalla and navigated the treacherous political waters of Rome. They explore the significant influence of powerful women like Julia Domna, the chaotic military landscape, and Macrinus's rapid fall from grace due to his missteps with rival Julia Maesa. The discussion also touches on Macrinus's unexpected resurgence in modern cinema.

In this discussion, historian Alex Imrie from the University of Edinburgh sheds light on the notorious Roman emperors Caracalla and Geta. Their story is one of brutal family rivalry and betrayal, culminating in a shocking murder before their mother. Imrie explores the disturbing dynamics between the brothers, their contrasting public images, and the impact of their lives on the Severan dynasty. The conversation also touches on how Hollywood's depiction of these figures in Gladiator II differs from the grim realities of their reign.

Caroline Lawrence, a best-selling author and expert in Greek mythology, dives into the haunting tale of the Minotaur, a half-man, half-bull creature trapped in a labyrinth. She discusses its origins and psychological themes, including the cultural significance tied to ancient bull practices. The conversation explores the inventive mind of Daedalus and the tragic story of Icarus, revealing the Minotaur's legacy in modern art and literature. Lawrence also highlights contemporary interpretations that reflect chaos and entrapment in today’s psyche.