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
40 snips
Feb 6, 2025 • 53min
Hieroglyphs
Join Egyptologist Hugo Cook, an expert on hieroglyphs who teaches at the British Museum, as he reveals the secrets of this ancient script. He discusses how hieroglyphs were more than just symbols—they were believed to hold power and conveyed everything from poetry to treaties. Cook explores the art and complexity of hieroglyphs, including their evolution and cultural significance. Discover how ancient Egyptians used these intricate designs to tell stories and the fascinating transition from hieroglyphs to modern writing systems.
Feb 2, 2025 • 1h 4min
Woolly Mammoths
In this discussion, Adrian Lister, a paleobiologist at the Natural History Museum, and David Meltzer, a professor at Southern Methodist University, unveil the woolly mammoth's fascinating journey. They delve into the mammoth's evolutionary adaptations to Ice Age climates, revealing how they roamed North America until as recently as 4,000 years ago. The conversation explores their dietary habits, interactions with early humans, and the implications of extinction, weaving together archaeological evidence and modern scientific discussions on their potential revival.
16 snips
Jan 30, 2025 • 40min
The Chinese Zodiac
Join Professor John Steele from Brown University, an expert in ancient astronomy, as he delves into the fascinating world of the Chinese Zodiac. Discover the captivating tale behind the twelve animals and their connections to lunar calendars that have influenced Chinese culture for over 3,000 years. Explore the myth of the great race that established the zodiac, and learn how the intricate cycles of earthly branches and heavenly stems create a 60-year pattern. Uncover the zodiac's impact on East Asia and its enduring legacy through time.
16 snips
Jan 26, 2025 • 56min
The Kingdom of Kush
Dr. Loretta Kilroe, Curator of Sudan and Nubia at the British Museum, sheds light on the powerful Kingdom of Kush, which once rivaled Egypt. She discusses the impressive royal pyramids, the unique blend of Kushite and Egyptian cultures, and the fascinating warrior queens. The conversation also touches on the religious significance of deities like Isis, and the kingdom's fierce resistance against Rome, showcasing the resilience and cultural richness of this ancient civilization.
44 snips
Jan 23, 2025 • 55min
Babylon's Epic of Creation
In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Sophus Helle, a leading expert on ancient Mesopotamian literature and translator of pivotal texts, shares insights on the Enuma Elish, Babylon's own Epic of Creation. He reveals how this ancient narrative glorifies Marduk, Babylon’s supreme god, and highlights its profound influence on biblical texts like Genesis. The conversation also dives into the cosmic battle between Marduk and Tiamat, and how Marduk transforms chaos into order, reshaping the universe. Discover the cultural significance of these myths in shaping beliefs and identity.
20 snips
Jan 19, 2025 • 50min
The Franks
Ian Wood, Professor Emeritus of Early Medieval History, dives into the fascinating rise of the Franks during the fragmented Western Roman Empire. He reveals thrilling tales of Clovis's campaigns, shedding light on his complex legacy and the church's role in shaping early medieval Europe. Discover how the Franks battled powerful foes like Romans and Visigoths, and the evolution of military structures during this tumultuous period. The discussion paints a vivid picture of how a group of warriors transformed into a dominant kingdom in Western Europe.
20 snips
Jan 16, 2025 • 47min
The Roman Invasion of Britain
Duncan Mackay, author of *Echoland* and an expert on early Roman rule in Britain, dives into the dramatic Roman invasion of 43 AD. He discusses the strategic motivations behind Emperor Claudius's ambitious campaign, revealing the complexities of the British tribes they encountered. Mackay explains the logistical challenges faced by Roman soldiers during their perilous crossing and highlights the tactical advantages that led to their initial victories. The significance of Claudius arriving on elephants adds a theatrical flair to a transformative moment in history.
16 snips
Jan 12, 2025 • 43min
Sargon of Akkad
Dr. Paul Collins, an Assyriologist and assistant keeper of later Mesopotamia at the British Museum, dives into the fascinating life of Sargon of Akkad, who founded one of history's first empires over 4,000 years ago. Together, they unravel Sargon's transformation from a common man to a legendary ruler through epic conquests and strategic unification of city-states. The pair also discuss the enduring mysteries of Sargon's lost capital, Agade, and the pivotal role of trade, divine authority, and his daughter, Enheduanna, in shaping Mesopotamian culture.
45 snips
Jan 9, 2025 • 1h 3min
Rome's Crisis of the Third Century
Dr. David Gwynn, a Reader in ancient and late antique history, joins Tristan Hughes to dissect the Crisis of the Third Century in the Roman Empire. They explore the eerie frequency of emperor murders, highlighting figures like Maximinus Thrax. The conversation dives into civil wars, economic collapse, and the external threats from the Sassanians and Goths. A pivotal moment discussed is Emperor Valerian's capture, illustrating the era's chaos. Christianity's rise amidst plagues and hardships reveals a significant shift in societal values during this tumultuous time.
30 snips
Jan 5, 2025 • 35min
Atlantis
Join Prof. Edith Hall, a Durham University expert on Atlantis and ancient Greek culture, as she unravels the intriguing story behind this legendary lost city. Hall discusses the origins of the Atlantis myth in Plato's dialogues, revealing its reflection on Athenian society, naval power, and moral lessons. The conversation delves into the governance and decline of Atlantis, linking it to ancient civilizations and the critique of imperialism. Discover how a fictional narrative transformed into a quest for historical truth over time.
