The Ancients

Edith Hall, a Professor at Durham University and an expert on ancient Greek literature, dives deep into the world of 'The Iliad.' She discusses its rich themes of war, honor, and the heartbreaking impact of heroism through figures like Achilles and Hector. Their emotional connections are explored, particularly the bond between Achilles and Patroclus. Hall highlights how the epic reflects ancient values and resonates with today's environmental concerns, making it a timeless narrative that continues to influence modern culture.

In a captivating discussion, Professor Catherine Steel from the University of Glasgow delves into Julius Caesar's rise to power. She shares intriguing insights into his early life, highlighting vital relationships that shaped his career. The conversation explores key political struggles, including the impact of Sulla's dictatorship, and contrasts Caesar's bold exploits in the Eastern Mediterranean with the complexities of Roman politics. Key moments in Caesar's journey reveal his mastery of rhetoric and strategy, setting the stage for his legendary status.

Join Dr. Stephen Snape and Professor Joyce Tyldesley, renowned Egyptologists, as they unveil the towering wonders of ancient Egyptian obelisks. They discuss their religious significance and the engineering marvels behind crafting and transporting these massive stone structures. Learn about the incredible techniques used in their construction, the role they played in showcasing pharaohs' power, and their journey from Egypt to cities like Rome and New York. Delve into the mysteries and cultural impacts that make obelisks timeless symbols of human ingenuity.

Join historian Dr. Dylan Johnson, an expert in the ancient Near East from Cardiff University, as he unpacks the infamous tale of Sodom and Gomorrah. Discover the historical context and geographical significance of these cities near the Dead Sea. The conversation delves into biblical themes of sin, hospitality, and divine punishment, alongside archaeological insights from the 1970s that challenge traditional narratives. Reflect on how ancient accounts of city destruction mirror today’s moral dilemmas and societal conflicts, offering lessons that resonate through time.

Dr. Lee Clare, a leading expert and coordinator of the Göbekli Tepe Research Project, shares insights into this ancient Neolithic site in Turkey. He discusses its groundbreaking role as the world’s oldest known temple, revealing complex ritual practices and architectural wonders. The conversation highlights the transition from hunter-gatherer societies to settled life and the site's significance in early organized religion. Clare emphasizes fascinating burial rituals and the advanced construction techniques that mark Göbekli Tepe as a pivotal site in human history.

In a captivating discussion, Professor Armand D’Angour, a classicist and musician from Oxford, shares insights on Elektra, daughter of Agamemnon. They explore her complex character through the lens of Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides, revealing contrasting themes of vengeance and justice. D’Angour highlights how these ancient narratives reflect contemporary issues of morality and female agency. Additionally, he discusses the recent London stage adaptation, emphasizing Elektra's enduring legacy and relevance in modern storytelling.

Join Dr. Ruud Konijnendijk, an Oxford ancient history expert, and Professor Lloyd Llewellyn-Jones from Cardiff University as they dissect the ambitious reign of King Xerxes and his monumental invasion of Greece. They explore the gripping battle strategies of Thermopylae and Salamis, shedding light on Xerxes' complex motivations and the significance of naval power. Discover the intriguing role of Artemisia, a female leader challenging norms, and the cultural symbols of earth and water that shaped Persian ambitions.

In this intriguing discussion, Professor Danielle Schreve, a paleobiologist from the University of Bristol and expert on the end of the Ice Age in Britain, highlights how massive climatic changes impacted both fauna and early humans. She dives into the survival tactics of ancient mammals like woolly mammoths and the adaptations of early humans amidst dramatic environmental shifts. The role of limestone caves as time capsules revealing past climates and ecosystems is also explored, providing insights that echo today's climate challenges.

Dr. Roel Konijnendijk, an expert from Oxford, and Professor Lloyd Llewellyn-Jones of Cardiff University dive into the epic clash at Marathon in 490 BC. They discuss the rise of the Persian Empire and the complexities surrounding Greek city-states, emphasizing cultural interactions and trade. The battle is framed as a pivotal moment for Greek identity and democracy, showcasing the stark contrast to Persian tyranny. Intriguing anecdotes about Darius's motivations reveal the deep-seated tensions that led to this legendary showdown.

In this engaging discussion, Chris Stringer, a leading expert in human evolution from the Natural History Museum, delves into the world of Neanderthals. He explores how these ancient beings thrived across diverse climates while facing their eventual decline against emerging Homo sapiens. The podcast highlights fascinating evidence of interbreeding, revealing traces of Neanderthal DNA in modern humans. Stringer further shares groundbreaking archaeological insights that challenge our understanding of Neanderthal intelligence, social dynamics, and their complex legacy.