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
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.
Jan 10, 2024 • 41min
The First Irish
Explore Ireland's prehistoric past and the lives of its earliest communities. Discover the shared practices between Ireland and other parts of Mesolithic Europe. Dive into underwater archaeology and megalithic settlements. Learn about the challenges of labeling people as hunter-gatherers and the implications thereof. Uncover the evidence for studying the Mesolithic period in Ireland.
4 snips
Jan 6, 2024 • 42min
Jericho
Explore the ancient city of Jericho and its historical significance; discuss connections and trade networks during the Stone Age; uncover material culture and everyday lives of the people through archaeological findings; promote the archaeology of Jericho and highlight potential for future discoveries.
4 snips
Jan 4, 2024 • 48min
How to Survive in Ancient Rome
Tristan Hughes is joined by Ben Kane to discuss daily life in Ancient Rome, covering topics like street life, chamber pots, pickpockets, and slavery. They explore the realities of living in the Roman Empire, highlighting the smelly and dangerous nature of the era.
Dec 31, 2023 • 53min
Zeus
In this episode, Professor Michael Scott joins Tristan Hughes to unravel the complex story of Zeus, the chief deity in Greek mythology. They discuss Zeus's origins, his battles with other gods and Titans, his shape-shifting abilities, and his role as an oracular god. The episode also explores the worship of Zeus, his symbolism, and the intriguing complexity of his character.
