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.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 7, 2023 • 52min
Demeter with Natalie Haynes
Natalie Haynes, a mythology expert, discusses the mythology surrounding Demeter, the Goddess of the Harvest in Ancient Greek society. Topics include Demeter's immense power, the fear of devastating famines, and the significance of the mother-daughter relationship in Greek mythology.
5 snips
Dec 2, 2023 • 54min
Origins of Sparta
Delve into the murky origins of Sparta, exploring myths, kingship, and conquest. Discussing the lineage of Heracles and the Oracle's cryptic messages. Examining the rise of Sparta and their mythical justifications. Unraveling the complexities of Sparta's origins, including doubts and absurd stories. Teasing an upcoming Sparta mini-series and holiday traditions. Get ready to explore the fascinating world of ancient Sparta!
Nov 30, 2023 • 29min
The Roman Secret Service
Discover the world of Roman espionage, from intelligence gathering techniques in the Punic Wars to the tactics employed by different emperors. Learn about the role of freemen as intelligence providers and the responsibilities of the ‘through mentarii’. Explore the evolution of the Roman secret service, from the infamous reputation of the freementon to the restructuring by Diocletian. Plus, special forces, Roman spies, and a special discount for listeners on HistoryHit.
Nov 26, 2023 • 49min
The Vandals
Discover the rise and influence of the Vandals, their conquest of Carthage, tensions with Catholic Christians, and their eventual downfall. Learn about their destructive tendencies and the origin of the term 'vandalism'.
Nov 22, 2023 • 42min
Keros: Bronze Age Mystery
Explore the significance of the uninhabited island of Keros during the Bronze Age, including its cultural practices, looting, and excavation efforts. Discover the mystery of the Cycladic civilization and the connection between broken objects and rituals. Learn about the transportation of marble and the purpose of the monumental building on Keros. Unanswered questions and future explorations highlight the importance of engaging the public in understanding this ancient site.
Nov 19, 2023 • 39min
Treasures of Pompeii
Elodie Harper, author and journalist, discusses the treasures uncovered in Pompeii, recent archaeology, the role of the goddess Fortuna, and the fascinating life of Julia Felix. She also explores the lives of ordinary people, the significance of graffiti, and the portrayal of power dynamics in ancient Rome. Plus, she talks about her trilogy of books set in Pompeii, inspired by real objects and buildings.
21 snips
Nov 16, 2023 • 56min
Kazakhstan's Valley of Kings
Discover Kazakhstan's Valley of Kings, where the Saka culture ruled over the Great Steppe. With excavated burial mounds filled with gold and fascinating artifacts, this podcast explores the archaeology of these ancient horse lords. From the deliberate construction of burial mounds to the decorations buried with sacrificed horses, learn about the burial rituals and practices in this remote valley. Also discussed are the importance of gold mining, the discovery of intact burials, and the analysis of golden artifacts. Explore the end of the Sakha culture, genetic transformations, and the efforts to share Kazakhstan's archaeology with the world.
Nov 11, 2023 • 42min
Persephone: Queen of the Underworld
Persephone, Queen of the Underworld, is explored in this podcast. The myth of her abduction, her fluctuating importance in the underworld, and the mysterious Ellicynian Mysteries are discussed. The Allusis temple and the close relationship between Persephone and Demeter are also explored.
Nov 8, 2023 • 40min
The Illyrians: Pirates of the Adriatic
Explore the mysterious world of the Illyrians, from their origins and political institutions to their seafaring ways. Discover the influence of Illyrian ships on the Romans and their interactions with the Greeks. Uncover the social complexity of Illyrian society, including their warrior identity and the portrayal of women. The hosts wrap up by discussing potential archaeological discoveries and promoting other podcasts.
13 snips
Nov 4, 2023 • 40min
Origins of Gaza
Explore the rich ancient history and archaeology of Gaza, including its transition into the Bronze Age and early Egyptian discoveries. Uncover the ongoing debate about whether certain structures were administrative centers or palaces. Discover the extensive trade contacts and Egyptian presence in the region, as well as the mysteries and contested history of Gaza.
