The Ancients
History Hit
A podcast for all ancient history fans! The Ancients is dedicated to discussing our distant past. Featuring interviews with historians and archaeologists, each episode covers a specific theme from antiquity. From Neolithic Britain to the Fall of Rome. Hosted by Tristan Hughes. New episodes every Sunday and Thursday.From History Hit, the world's best history channel and creators of award-winning podcasts Dan Snow's History Hit, Gone Medieval, and Betwixt the Sheets.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.
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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 13, 2024 • 38min
The Edomites
In a captivating discussion, archaeologist Dr. Matthew Vincent shares his expertise on the Edomites, an ancient people known for their connections to King Herod and significant events like their support for Babylon's conquest of Jerusalem. He reveals fascinating insights from excavations in Petra, emphasizing the Edomites' trade practices and semi-nomadic lifestyle. The conversation also highlights their unique language, religious beliefs, and archaeological links to the Nabataeans, shedding light on this lesser-known civilization's history and cultural legacy.
Oct 10, 2024 • 48min
Anubis and the Underworld
In this engaging discussion, Dr. Joyce Tyldesley OBE, an expert in ancient Egyptian history from the University of Manchester, delves into the mysteries of Anubis, the jackal-headed deity. She reveals the fascinating rituals of mummification and the belief systems surrounding the afterlife, including the weighing of hearts and insights from the Book of the Dead. The conversation also touches on the complex dynamics between Anubis and other gods in ancient mythology, providing a vivid picture of how these practices shaped Egyptian culture.
Oct 6, 2024 • 50min
Darius the Great, Persian King of Kings
Reverend Professor Lloyd Llewellyn-Jones, an expert in ancient Persia from Cardiff University, dives into the life of Darius the Great, one of history's most influential Persian kings. They explore his rise to power and the complexities of establishing his legitimacy, including fascinating insights into his dual identity as both a benevolent ruler and conqueror. The discussion also covers Darius’ transformative reforms, infrastructure projects like the Royal Road, and his military campaigns, revealing the rich legacy he left behind.
Oct 3, 2024 • 46min
The Legend of Osiris, King of the Dead
Dr. Campbell Price, an expert on Egyptian mythology, joins to unravel the chilling tale of Osiris, the King of the Dead. They dive deep into his tragic demise at the hands of his brother Set and the heroic efforts of his wife, Isis, to restore him. The intense conflict between Osiris's son Horus and Set unfolds, revealing themes of power, chaos, and legitimacy. The discussion also connects the Osiris legend to the ancient practice of mummification, showcasing its deep influences on beliefs about death and rebirth in ancient Egypt.
Sep 29, 2024 • 1h
The Fall of Carthage
Join Dr. Eve MacDonald, an expert on ancient Mediterranean history, as she unpacks the dramatic fall of Carthage in 146 BC. The discussion dives into Rome’s military strategies and the brutal sieges during the Punic Wars, shedding light on the complexities often lost in Roman narratives. MacDonald also highlights Carthage's resilience, its architectural grandeur, and the emotional aftermath of its destruction, all while reflecting on the far-reaching implications of Carthage's end in shaping future civilizations.
Sep 26, 2024 • 47min
Isis and the Goddesses of Egypt
Dr. Joyce Tyldesley, an expert in ancient Egyptian history and mythology, dives into the captivating world of Egyptian goddesses like Isis, Hathor, and Sekhmet. She reveals their dual natures—both nurturing and vengeful—highlighting their significant roles in society. From Isis' maternal influence on the royal family to Hathor’s transformation into the fierce Sekhmet, Dr. Tyldesley explores how these myths shaped cultural and political landscapes. The discussion also touches on how these goddesses were perceived by ancient Egyptians and visitors alike.
Sep 22, 2024 • 36min
Tyrannosaurus Rex
Dr. Steve Brusatte, a renowned paleontologist known for his groundbreaking research on dinosaur evolution and extinction, dives deep into the world of the Tyrannosaurus Rex. Discover the fascinating anatomy of this apex predator, from its towering stature to its tiny arms. Learn about the intriguing insights from T. rex coprolites, revealing clues about its diet and hunting behavior. Brusatte also discusses the evolutionary connection between dinosaurs and modern birds, shedding light on the T. rex's legacy in today’s avian species.
8 snips
Sep 19, 2024 • 46min
Ra and the Sun Gods
Discover the captivating journey of Ra, the Egyptian sun god, as he sails across the sky and battles in the underworld. Unearth his complex nature, merging with other deities and influencing monumental structures like the pyramids. Explore the rise of Amun and the unique worship during Akhenaten’s reign, where the Aten took center stage. Delve into the rich symbolism of rebirth and the enduring legacy of Ra, reflecting on how his influence spanned from ancient times to later periods of history.
Sep 15, 2024 • 1h 23min
The Fall of Roman Britain
In this insightful discussion, Dr. Rob Collins and Dr. James Gerrard, both Late Roman Britain experts from the University of Newcastle, explore the intricate decline of Roman authority in Britain during the early 5th century. They unravel the complexities of regional experiences, from varied governance to the impacts of military life and societal changes. The duo delves into the cultural shifts, economic inequalities, and the profound effects of local leaders during the fall. Listeners are treated to a nuanced narrative that challenges the traditional tale of Rome's withdrawal.
Sep 12, 2024 • 46min
Origins of the Egyptian Gods
Joyce Tyldesley, an Egyptologist from the University of Manchester, dives into the enchanting origins of ancient Egyptian gods and goddesses. She unpacks the creation myth of the Ennead and its connection to the Nile's cyclical flooding, pivotal to Egyptian identity. The discussion also navigates the emergence of deities from cosmic chaos, exploring the evolving relationships among gods like Aton, Isis, and Osiris. Tyldesley emphasizes how these complex narratives shaped cultural beliefs and influenced the role of kings in maintaining divine order.
