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
Feb 15, 2024 • 52min
Sulla
Learn about Lucius Cornelius Sulla, his rise to power, and his role in the downfall of the Roman Republic. Explore the impact of his purge of enemies and his lasting influence on Roman politics. Discover the encounter between Sulla and Julius Caesar, and the diverging accounts of Sulla's death. Delve into the legacy of this influential historical figure.
Feb 11, 2024 • 51min
Persia Reborn: Rise of the Sasanians
Explore the rise of the Sasanians and their challenge to Rome. Learn about Ardashir founding the empire and his struggles against the Parthians. Discover the rock relief representing the battle and the shift in armor style. Delve into the transition from Parthian rule and the overlooked story of the Sasanians. Experience the dominance of the Persianate world and their rivalry with Rome.
Feb 8, 2024 • 38min
The Epic of Gilgamesh: Quest for Immortality
In this episode, Dr Sophus Helle discusses Gilgamesh's quest for immortality and his encounters with the mysterious sage Ut-napishtim. They explore Enkidu's prophetic dream and deathbed visions, the purpose of sermons, and the climax of the epic. They also delve into the journey of Gilgamesh as he seeks the plant of youth and the themes of storytelling and wisdom in the ending.
Feb 4, 2024 • 40min
The Epic of Gilgamesh: Rise of Enkidu
Tristan Hughes, podcast host, and Dr. Sophus Helle explore the Epic of Gilgamesh, one of the oldest surviving works of storytelling. They discuss the central love story between King Gilgamesh and Enkidu, the significance of the city of Eruk, Enkidu's transition to humanity, their quest to slay Humbaba, the structure and themes in Mesopotamian literature, and analyze the first half of the epic.
Feb 1, 2024 • 41min
The First Dogs
Explore the fascinating journey of how ancient hunter gatherers domesticated dogs during the Ice Age. Learn about the challenges of studying dog domestication, the interaction between humans and wolves, and the significance of dogs as hunting companions. Discover the origins of horse domestication and the shifting importance of dogs. Dr. Angela Perri discusses the profound impact of dogs on human lives and their role in human migration.
Jan 28, 2024 • 48min
Hermes: Messenger of the Gods
Christopher Bungard, expert on Greek gods and goddesses, joins the podcast to discuss Hermes. They explore his role as both the messenger of the gods and the patron of thieves, his cleverness and boundary-crossing abilities, his interactions with other gods like Apollo, and his role as a guide to the underworld after death. This episode provides fascinating insights into the multifaceted portrayal of Hermes in Greek mythology.
Jan 24, 2024 • 54min
Alexander the Great
Join Dan Snow and Tristan as they take a whistle-stop tour of Alexander the Great's life, from his rise to power in Macedonia to his epic battles with the Persians. Discover his early victories, conquest of Egypt, and his legacy on Egyptian culture. Dive into his greatest victory at Galcomela and his determination to get rid of enemies. The podcast also includes reflections, introduction of a new podcast, and promotions of documentaries on Pompeii.
18 snips
Jan 21, 2024 • 52min
Lascaux Cave: Ice Age Art
Delve into the wonders of Lascaux Cave and its stunning Palaeolithic artwork. Explore the significance of the cave art and its ritual purposes. Discover the unique features of the Hall of the Bulls and the vibrant colors used in the paintings. Learn about the variations in style and the communal aspect of the art. Explore the markings found in the cave and their association with individual animals. Join the speaker's gratitude towards Professor Paul Petit for providing a tour of Lascaux Cave.
Jan 17, 2024 • 37min
Cicero
Dr. Van der Blom joins to explore Cicero's rise to power, his influential speeches, relationships with Julius Caesar, and exposure of the Catiline Conspiracy. They discuss his education, flexibility in supporting different ideals, and defense of supporters in court.
13 snips
Jan 13, 2024 • 51min
The Bronze Age Collapse
The podcast explores the sudden collapse of multiple Bronze Age civilizations, discussing invasions, drought, famine, and the role of the Sea Peoples. It delves into the geographical extent of societies, the significance of Ugarit in international trade, and the evidence of clay tablets and ancient inscriptions. The chapter also highlights the migration of the Sea Peoples and their impact, as well as the causes and consequences of the collapse including drought, famine, and destruction of palaces. The episode concludes with sponsor ads.
