Ancient History Hound
Ancient History Hound explores ancient Greece, Rome, and other cultures from antiquity. The podcast covers a range of topics suitable for all levels of understanding. The host, known as Ancient Blogger, also shares content on Instagram, TikTok, X, Bluesky, and YouTube.
Episodes
Sparta in the Spotlight. Part III
In the final part of the miniseries I look at Spartan marriage, money and mothers as well as a range of other topics. I hope you've enjoyed these Sparta episodes, why not let me know? Find me via these links Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental). Reading list and modern sources used: Bershadsky, N. The Argive Women, Beards and Democracy Dwight, Z. Maidens and the Spartan Marriage Practice. Hodk
Hannibal: surprise, Celts and not besieging Rome
In this episode I get into a famous event and a famous non-event. Did Hannibal really take Rome by surprise by crossing the Alps and why didn't he attack Rome directly after Cannae? I tackle both of these questions whilst throwing in the Celts and army attrition for good measure. Links below but you can find me on most social media platforms as 'ancientblogger' and can email me at ancientblogger@h
Sparta in the Spotlight. Part II
In this episode I look at how the Spartan soldier fared in battle. What advantages had they been given through the agoge and syssitia? What was hoplite battle like and how good were the Spartans? I also look at a couple of Plutarch's sayings about the Spartans in the context of war and weigh up whether they were just a later invention or if there was something more to them. Find me on X, Instagram
Sparta in the Spotlight. Part I
Sparta, what do we know about it exactly and what's been exaggerated, or just made up? In the first of three episodes I look at the education system (agoge), communal mess (syssitia) and get into the Krypteia (not literally though). What do the sources say about these and how do they differ from ways they are sometimes depicted? In addition to all of this I have a quick overview of the sources whi
2026 update
Time for a quick update about what to expect in 2026 and when the next episode will drop. Let me know what you think, I'm @ancientblogger on Instagram, X, Bluesky and TikTok. There's also the Ancient History Hound subreddit and AncientBlogger YouTube channel. Or just good old email ancientblogger@hotmail.com Thanks for listening and here's to a 2026 with more ancient history content. Cheers, Neil
Exploring Place in Regal Rome (Part 2).
This is the second of two episodes where I was a guest back in 2024 on the Partial Historians, a fantastic podcast which I suggest you check out. Over two epsiodes we discuss the places in ancient Rome linked to the Regal period, or at least tied to it by the later sources. In the second episode I get into a fruit controversy at the Tullianum, what I think is the most important structure in early
Exploring Place in Regal Rome (Part 1).
This is the first of two episodes where I was a guest back in 2024 on the Partial Historians, a fantastic podcast which I suggest you check out. Over two epsiodes we discuss the places in ancient Rome linked to the Regal period, or at least tied to it by the later sources. In the first episode it's time to consider the strategic position of Rome, some of the hills, the Tiber, Pomerium and much mor
Tacfarinas with Dr Jo Ball
Dr Jo Ball returns as a guest on the podcast to talk about Tacfarinas, the subject of her latest book. In the early 1st century AD Tacfarinas led a rebellion against Rome in north west Africa. Listen to find out how Rome responded, what we know about Tacfarinas and much, much more. The problems with triumphs, nepotism, psychology and how dangerous this rebellion was are amongst some of the other a
Witches in ancient Rome
It's that time of the year for a Night of the Livy Dead halloween special! This time it's about witches and magic in ancient Rome. From what defined a witch through to examples in Roman literature. Please rate or review if you can. Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental). No episode notes but see below for a list of books used in this episode (aside from original sources). Ed Ankarloo & Clark. Wi
Festivals in ancient Rome: May & June
May and June are covered in this episode which includes dealing with the dead at midnight, the Vestals and a bridge. Oh, and some straw dolls with a sinister backstory. Episode notes with a transcription, reading list, links, images and supporting content on www.ancientblogger.com If you are on Reddit come and check out the AncientHistoryHound subreddit - don't forget to rate and review wherever y
Festivals in ancient Rome: April
It's time for April in ancient Rome which means overseas deities setting down roots, Romulus getting a free pass, sheep and much more. Episode notes with a transcription, reading list, links, images and supporting content on www.ancientblogger.com If you are on Reddit come and check out the AncientHistoryHound subreddit - don't forget to rate and review where you can. Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai In
Festivals in ancient Rome: March
Much dancing, leaping, drinking and a musical instrument. As a month March had a legacy of sorts and there was a lot of fun to be had, though not everyone approved. Episode notes on www.ancientblogger.com Reviews on any platform are really welcome, thanks for those who have done so and for the kind messages! Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental).
Festivals in ancient Rome: February
Continuining the miniseries I dive into three festivals celebrated in February. There's much nudity, a spell and a festival with a name which might be a bit misleading. If you can rate and/or review please do. Episode notes at www.ancientblogger.com Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental).
Festivals in ancient Rome: January
Ever wonder how the Romans set out their year and what they got up to in January? This is the first of a miniseries about festivals in ancient Rome. In this episode I take a brief look at how the Romans developed their calendar (or Fasti). Then it's time to chat about two fesitvals celebrated in January and a bit about the name of the month. Episode notes at www.ancientblogger.com -if you are on
Film review: The Return with Lottie Luke.
Join me and guest Lottie Luke as we discuss The Return, a film about Odysseus, well, returning to Ithaca. How did the film differ from the Odyssey poem and what were our general thoughts? As you might imagine there is reference to some nasty stuff - just be aware. You can find Lottie Luke as @myclassicsportal on TikTok, YouTube and Instagram. There's also her website: https://www.myclassicsportal.
Ancient Sicily (pt7). Dionysius I: Poetry and Politics.
Bad poetry, bad behaviour and a bizarre use for heated walnut shells. In this episode I pick and and finish with Dionysius I of Syracuse. It's quite a rollercoaster with a dramatic finish. Episode notes at www.ancientblogger.com and if you a reading this then be a star and rate and review. Thanks to all those who keep coming back for more, your kind feedback really helps. Music by Brakhage (Le Vra
Podcast update!
Don't worry, nothing serious but just to keep you in the loop. The next episode will be out mid-April. Apologies for the delay but it's not always easy to schedule regularly when you are a solo podcaster who has a full time job and other commitments. It'll be worth the wait - trust me! Till then why not check out the podcast back catalogue? You can find me on Insta, YouTube, TikTok, Bluesky and X
Pliny the Younger
In this episode I cover the life of Pliny the Younger and his famous letters. In his writings he gave a eye witness account of the eruption of Vesuvius and pondered how to deal with Christians. As well as looking into these instances I talk about what his letters tell us about him and the world he lived in. Whatever platform you are using - leave a review and thanks to those who have. Episode no
Minisode: Gifts.
(please note that there is reference to suicide and murder as per the myths involved). In this minisode I pick out some examples of gifts in ancient Mesopotamia and Greece where the outcome wasn't as planned or it just went plain wrong. Let me know what you think by leaving a review or getting in touch. You can find me as @ancientblogger on social media (TikTok, X, Bluesky, Insta, YouTube) and vi
Ancient Sicily (pt6). Dionysius I: Countering Carthage.
It's time for Dionysius I to face Carthage. How would he deal with an unstoppable force coming his way? Lots to talk about including a surprise wedding (or two). Please rate and review where you can! Episode notes at www.ancientblogger.com Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental).
Curse tablets and figurines.
In this Night of the Livy Dead Halloween special I discuss the types of curses which made it onto tablets and figurines from antiquity. Starting with ancient Egypt and ending in the later Roman period I look into what they were used for, who they were used against and what it tells us about how people were living. As you might imagine it can get very, very personal. Episode notes at www.ancientblo
Guest Episode - The Partial Historians on Spartacus.
This is a guest episode which features the Partial Historians and is all about Spartacus. To celebrate their upcoming book, Your Cheeky Guide to the Roman Empire, Dr Radford recorded an episode on that famous gladiator turned rebel. Here it is and I hope you enjoy. I was on their podcast earlier this year, a two parter all about Regal Rome and some of the buildings/features. Go have a listen! M
The Teutoburg Disaster with Dr Ball: Part Two.
In the second episode on the Teutoburg Disaster Dr Ball gets into the sometimes harrowing details of the fate which befell those Romans in AD 9. We discuss the sequence of events and weigh up what the sources said, and didn't say, about it all. Don't forget to rate and review and thanks for listening! Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental).
The Teutoburg Disaster with Dr Ball: Part One.
In AD 9 Rome lost three legions in an attack made by Germanic tribes. It became an infamous event in Rome's history dealing a huge blow both to its manpower and prestige. So how had this come to be? In the first of two episodes on this event I'm joined by Dr Jo Ball who is an expert on the Teutoburg Disaster. Dr Ball discusses the battlefield (including her work there) and then we turn to the ma
Ancient Sicily (pt5). Revenge & Ruin.
In this episode of the miniseries on ancient Sicily I pick up with what happened after the Sicilian Expedition. Syracuse was celebrating victory but if they had any ideas that it would all be peaceful they were sorely mistaken. As one empire retreated to lick its wounds another would emerge and at Syracuse an old habit was to return. Episode notes at www.ancientblogger.com - if you can rate or re
Ancient Sicily (pt4). The Sicilian Expedition.
Continuing my miniseries on ancient Sicily I pick up on the two separate incidents where Athens got directly involved in Sicilian affairs towards the end of the 5th century BC. Was it a good idea and what went wrong? Also, an attempt to describe Syracuse using just your hand. Oh, and a highly consequential eclipse. If you can rate or review the episode or podcast please do. Episode notes with a t
Tyrants in ancient Greece.
Every wonder what a tyrant was, how a tyrant became a tyrant and if there were any benefits in having a tyrant run your city? In this episode I answer these questions as I examine some tyrants from the Archaic period to the mid-5th century BC. A main source for this episode which I mention is James F McGlew: 'Tyranny and Political Culture in Ancient Greece'. Make sure to rate or review wherever y
Ancient Sicily (pt3). Democracy & Ducetius.
Continuing the ancient Sicily miniseries I pick up with what happened to the tryant Thrasybulus in Syracuse in the 460s BC. There's a lot of civil unrest and democracy finally makes an appearance. Elsewhere on the island one of Sicily's most intriguing sons, a man called Ducetius, makes a play for power. If you're listening where you can leave a review please do! Episodes notes, including a readi
Ancient Sicily (pt2). Tyrants and Tragedy.
In the second episode on ancient Sicily I turn to the rise of the tyrants and the changing political situation on the island. Covering the period between 600BC and the mid 5th century BC there is a lot to talk about, it's an episode packed with treachery, conquest and even some poetry. If you can leave a review wherever you listen to this please do - it really helps. Episode notes including a read
Ancient Sicily (pt1). New neighbours.
The first of a mini series on ancient Sicily. I begin with a brief sojurn around the island and an overview of the original inhabitants. Then it's onto the Greeks and Phoenicians who founded colonies on the island. I unwrap what form these initially took and what can be inferred from them. If you can leave a review please do! Episode notes including a reading list and full transcription on www.anc
Ancient Rome's Worst Emperors with LJ Trafford
Ever wonder who the worst Roman Emperors were? Well, LJ Trafford has written a book on this question and we sit down to chat about three candidates I selected from it. This is LJ's third appearance on the podcast and as ever she was fab to chat to. Have a listen and see if you agree! If you can rate and/or review on the platform you are using to listen to this episode please do. It really helps.
The Saturnalia.
It's that time of the year for a look at the Roman Saturnalia. This was a Roman midwinter festival in which people gave presents, partied and even slaves got time off. In this episode I look into the important themes behind it, what was added, what was changed and how it all fitted together. Plus I take a look at what present options there were and the whole politics of gift giving. Episode notes
Episode Swap: Roman street food and urban kitchens with The Delicious legacy Podcast.
My first go at an episode swap and it's with The Delicious Legacy Podcast which explores food throughout history. In this episode Thomas travels back to ancient Rome to consider what the average Roman ate. He unwraps the workings of a Roman kitchen and how the Romans cooked their food. Food and ancient history - what's not to love!
Night of the Livy Dead VII
In this Halloween special I pick out a few characters from antiquity who you wouldn't want to meet in a dark alley, or pretty much anywhere. A Mesopotamian demon, shapeshifters and a terrifying trio all feature. You can find previous Night of the Livy Dead episodes on here - just scroll down. For episode notes (reading list, transcription, links and images) go to www.ancientblogger.com If you can
Re-release: Witches and Demons in Mesopotamia.
A re-release of a previous Night of the Livy Dead Halloween special. This one was all about witchcraft and demons in Mesopotamia and how you might counter them. If you enjoy this why not have a scroll through and find other Night of the Livy Dead Halloween specials? Any reviews on the platform you use to listen are always greatly appreciated. If you love ancient history be sure to check out my we
Bees BC: Bees and honey in Ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia and Greece.
Bees and honey have been incredibly important for different peoples for a long, long time. In this episode I discuss exactly how bees were kept, how honey was produced and what it was used for. I also get into how the bee manifested in different cultures. Episode notes, including a transcript at www.ancientblogger.com Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental). If you can rate or review - please do!
Hannibal: from Cannae to Zama
The story of Hannibal didn't stop at Cannae. Following this victory he met obstacle and success as he took on Rome in southern Italy. In this episode I unwrap what happened and how it all led to his final battle with Rome at Zama (which I also discuss). Episode notes with a readling list, transcription and other useful content is on my website www.ancientblogger.com If you can rate or review pleas
Magna Graecia: Greeks in Southern Italy.
The Greeks established numerous colonies in southern Italy. In this episode I'm delving into the history of them, how they interacted with local peoples and of course each other. Dancing animals, a drunken diplomatic incident and 'hands-off' pottery all feature. Episode notes (including transcription) on www.ancientblogger.com Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental).
Helots of Sparta
The helots of Sparta were a people who were indispensible for the Spartan state. But what did they do, how had Sparta acquired them and how did it go about controlling this population? Episode notes (including transcription) on www.ancientblogger.com Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental).
Archaic Athens and democracy.
At the beginning of the 6th century BC Athens was in crisis and by the end of it there was a new political system in place. In this episode I discuss the changes, characters and events which occured. Bizarre political campaigning, Spartans, tyrants and of course the new way of politics by the end of it all. It's an archaic rollercoaster ride! Episode notes (including transcription) on www.ancientb
The Lupercalia.
The Lupercalia was literally run on on the 15th February in ancient Rome. Apart from the nudity, running and goathide thongs there's a lot going on here. Indeed the Roman writers seem unsure of how it all started and in this episode I play detective in trying to work out how it started and what this tells us about Rome. I also talk about the festival itself and how it manifested as well as one fa
Romans in Scotland: The Campaigns with Dr Andrew Tibbs.
In the second of two episodes on Roman Scotland the chat turns to the three main campaigns which Rome undertook there. What was Rome trying to achieve? What do we really know about them? How did they differ and what can they tell us in a wider context? We discuss this and much more (including answering some questions sent in). Episode notes on www.ancientblogger.com Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Ins
Romans in Scotland: Fortifications with Dr Andrew Tibbs.
In the first of two episodes on Roman Scotland Dr Andrew Tibbs unwraps the different types of fortifications the Romans built. From the large forts through to the small watchtowers we can learn a lot about how the Roman army functioned in Scotland and in general. We also get to answer some questions you sent in which range from logistics to something much more chilling. In the next episode we cov
Minisode. The Haloa
In the depths of winter a festival took place which celebrated the goddess Demeter, the Haloa. It was an all woman affair with drinking, fire and an all night feast. Oh, and rude language was a must. Episode notes on ancientblogger.com with images, a transcipt, sources and further reading. Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental).
Rise of the Gladiator
How did gladiators take hold in Rome? Where did they come from and how was their use moulded by the big political events of the 1st century BC? In this episode I get into this and other aspects such as a few myths and their fighting stats. Thanks to Gladiator Doodles for the fab artwork! Full episode notes including a transcript, sources and images on ancientblogger.com Music by Brakhage (Le Vra
Night of the Livy Dead: The Greek Underworld.
Another #NightofTheLivyDead episode and this time it's a look at the Greek Underworld. What was the journey there like? What happened in it and what's with singing amphibians? From Odysseus to Orpheus and a question to consider on hangovers. There's lots covered so get listening (and leave a review if you can). Check out www.ancientblogger for episode notes. Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental
Night of the Livy Dead Minisode: Werewolves in Greece and Rome.
There are two main stories concerning werewolves in Greece and Rome and in this minisode I briefly cover them. What went on on Mount Lykaion exactly and how did the werewolf differ from our modern interpretation. Thanks for taking the time to liste, if you can review please do or just pop over to ancientblogger.com for a piece which links in with this minisode. Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumen
'Mad Honey'.
In this minisode I talk about two disasters which befell a Greek and Roman army due to something you can put on your toast. How did it happen and why? I also cover a nasty way to speed up a siege and a why there's no such thing as a free camp. Find me at www.ancientblogger.com Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental).
Artemis with Dr Carla Ionescu.
In this episode I'm joined by a guest expert Dr Carla Ionescu to discuss the goddess Artemis. There's so much about Artemis which is often left in the background so here we look into the aspects and associations of her you may not have heard of. From bloody rituals to a cake based rescue she's a fascinating deity. Episode notes at www.ancientblogger.com Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental).
Pompeii.
In this minisode I unwrap the sequence of events which befell Pompeii when Vesuvius erupted. Modern studies and archaeology has enabled a narrative to be built of how the eruption played out. I also briefly cover a couple of controversies and myths of Pompeii. Given the situation there is reference to death and suffering. Find my other Pompeii content on a Pompeii page on my website www.ancientblo
Piracy in Ancient Greece.
How did piracy feature in ancient Greece? What was it and how did the Greeks respond? In this episode I give an overview from Homer through to the Hellenistic. Why not give it a listen and a review? Don't forget to head on over to www.ancientblogger.com for the episode notes! Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental).
Sappho's Ode to Aphrodite
In this mini episode I pick out some themes from Sappho's famous poem. But that's not all - I also include a performance of it in ancient Greek courtesy of Seikilo. For more info, a reading list, more about Seikilo and transcription of the episode head over to www.ancientblogger.com - as you'll hear it's had a bit of an overhaul. If you can review or send feedback my way I'd be grateful. More imp
The Oracle of Dodona.
Over the course of 400 years people travelled to the Oracle of Dodona and asked questions. Some of these have survived and give an fascinating insight into what the people of ancient Greece were thinking. In this episode I take you through the history and background of the oracle before getting stuck into those questions. Perhaps less pig theft but certainly job and relationship advice. I reckon t
The Second Punic War. Cannae.
Time for the big one. Cannae is one of the most famous battles of antiquity. Not only did Rome suffer a crushing defeat but the tactics behind the victory have been studied by generals and military tacticians ever since. In this episode I discuss what happened in the lead up to it, trust me there's a drama at every turn. From dictators to deceptive cattle. Then there's the battle itself which I t
The Idea of Marathon with Dr Sonya Nevin.
In her book, The Idea of Marathon, Dr Nevin explores the Battle of Marathon from different angles. Not just the events prior to it, but what we know about the battle and how later generations made sense of it all (this includes the modern period). Join us as we cover a lot of ground (historically inaccurate pun intended). There are complaining Greeks, disappearing horses and possibly the greatest
The Second Punic War. Trasimene
The focus on Trasimene is often largely about the events of the day, but what is as interesting are the events leading up to it. What choices did Hannibal have and how did Rome try to anticipate him? As well as the battle I discuss the details and events leading up to the battle. A transcription and episode notes (with maps etc) can be found on www.ancientblogger.com Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Ins
The Second Punic War. Trebia.
The opening battle of the Second Punic War was to set the trend in many ways and anticipate much of what was to come. But how did it come about? Who were the figures involved, how did the conditions come into play and what exactly happened? In this episode I try to unpick the basics and some more detailed aspects. Full transcript and episode notes at ancientblogger.com. If you can rate or review p
Sex and Sexuality in ancient Rome with LJ Trafford
It's time to welcome LJ Trafford back onto the podcast and talk about her new book, Sex and Sexuality in Ancient Rome. We discuss a number of topics, from homosexuality through to what the sexual expectations were of the time. What did the Romans view as acceptable and what was considered shameful? Obviously the content here is adult so please bear that it mind. If the platform you are listening o
Fantasy Dinner Guests with Helen McVeigh
Ever play the "who would you invite to a dinner party" game? Well, here is the ancient history and myth version. Joining me for the first episode is Helen McVeigh and we run through her 6 picks. You can find episode notes at ancientblogger.com which will include anything we have mentioned in the show (including Helen's book recommendations). Please rate and review if you can. FYI we do mention s
Witches and demons in ancient Mesopotamia.
In this episode I'm continuing the #NightofTheLivyDead Halloween tradition with a look at witches and demons in ancient Mesopotamia. How were they viewed? What made a witch? How did you counter a demon? And how does a magical river battle figure in all this? Listen and find out! Music by Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental).
Jason of Pherae with guest Dr Michael Furman.
In the 4th century BCE the region of Thessaly underwent a transformation. It went from being fractured to becoming a unified state under the leadership of Jason. In a short time Jason became a prominent player in Greece, earning the admiration of Xenophon and calling the shots after Leuctra. But then it all ended abruptly. How did he achieve this? What were his intentions and why is he overlooked?
Thebes. Apex and Despair.
It's the final of my Theban trilogy. In this episode I discuss the highs and lows for Thebes in the 4th century BCE. Along with covering the whirlwind of alliances and reprisals I help answer questions about ridding yourself of a Spartan garrison and interpreting gloomy spiders. Lots to cover so why not give it a go? If you haven't listened to the previous two then why not binge listen? Music by
Thebes: Revenge and Rivalry.
In this episode I discuss Thebes in the 5th century BCE. How did it fare after Plataea and what position was it in by the end of the century? Revenge, a sporting controversy and even the big stage feature. Lots to listen to! Music by Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental).
The gardens of Pompeii with Jessica Venner.
In this episode I talk with guest expert Jessica Venner all about what the gardens in Pompeii can tell us. We chat about what the gardens looked like, the problems of keeping up with the neighbours, what was grown and how they are comparable to gardens today. Music by Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental).
Thebes. Walls, teeth and Persians.
As part of a look at Thebes I start with the mythical foundation of the city before moving through to the very real aftermath of the Persian invasion. Athletic cows, wedding drama and walls. Something for everyone. I'll be releasing more episodes on Thebes in the future to continue the story of what happened next. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss out. Music by Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Inst
Trailer - why listen to the Ancient History Hound podcast?
Here's yours truly giving a pep talk as to why you might want to subscribe to the show.
Leptis Magna and Septimius Severus with Maria Lloyd.
Leptis Magna became a celebrated Roman city on the African shore and was the birthplace of the Emperor Septimius Severus. In this episode I chat with special guest Maria Lloyd all about how the city developed and grew. We then discuss Severus, how did he rise to power and what did he do? Politics, intrigue, betrayal and even whether it's Leptis or Lepcis. We cover loads - so get listening! Music
The origins of Greek Tragedy
Classical Athens is famous for the introduction of theatre and Tragedy. But it didn't just appear out of nowhere. In this episode I try and piece together how it developed and ended up as a main component of the City Dionysia at Athens. All this with rude puppets, wild processions, the odd phallus and politics. Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental).
AD 69 and daily life in ancient Rome. LJ Trafford interview.
In this special episode I chat with LJ Trafford who has written books covering AD 69 and the four emperors. LJ Trafford has a new book out titled 'How to Survive in Ancient Rome' and we talk about what Rome would have been like for the average person as well as how the turmoil of AD 69 came about and what happened. Join us as we discuss this as well as whose eels had makeovers, a truly goth banque
Night of the Livy Dead 3. Ghosts.
It's Halloween so time for the third NOTLD episode. In this episode I talk about hauntings and instances of ghosts in Mesopotamia, Greece and Rome. From festivals aiming to placate them through to reports of hauntings and even ways to counter a ghost. There's even a very dangerous trick with a walnut. Episode notes at www.ancientblogger.com. Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental)
The Ancient Olympics.
In this Olympic length episode I discuss the origin of the games and how both they and the site developed over time. I'll also be picking up the wider aspects of it all from politics to nudity and even foul play. Episode notes at www.ancientblogger.com Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental)
Mountains in Myth.
In this episode I discuss four mountains which featured in ancient Greece. How did they feature in the local myths? What happened on them? I cover this as well as the more obscure mountain associations, from bizarre marital advice, singing competitions to very bad family cooking. Notes to the episode can be found at www.ancientblogger.com Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental) Modified picture c
Eclipses in Antiquity
It's time to turn my attention to the references made to eclipses in antiquity. They appear in palace records, poems and historical writings and across the Mediterranean (including Mesopotamia). How where they understood? What rituals were observed and how can they be used to date and locate an event? Join me to find out more. Notes to the episode can also be found at ancientblogger.com Music by B
Kings of Rome. Tarquin and his expulsion.
It's time for the final King, Tarquinius Superbus. I chat about his reign, the expulsion and the emergence of the Republic. Tarquin was a King who did as much inside Rome as outside of it. Plenty to talk about. (content includes reference to sexual assault). Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental)
Kings of Rome. Servius Tullius.
Reform, negligent chariot driving and mild pyrotechnics. It's the turn of Servius Tullis, Rome's 6th King to feature. Servius' rise, his fall, reforms and a few puns are all included so get listening. Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental)
Kings of Rome. Lucius Tarquinius Priscus.
Rebranding, tyrants, clothes, racing, omens, hydraulic engineering, formal wear and possibly a very long held grudge. The story of Rome's 5th king is certainly entertaining and in this podcast I talk about some of the aspects of his reign. Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental)
Kings of Rome. Ancus Marcius.
It's time for Rome's fourth King, Ancus Marcius to come into the spotlight. I discuss what he did and didn't build as well as play detective in a murder mystery. Spoiler alert, he probably did it. Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental)
Kings of Rome. Tullus Hostilius.
Continuing my examination of the Roman kings I talk about Tullus Hostilius, the third Roman king. Tulls was primarily associated with Rome's military exploits and had a hand in a famous myth. He also had more than a hand in a death which shocked even Livy. From war to religious problems and a bizarre death. It's all here. Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental)
Human Sacrifice in Antiquity. Part Two.
In the second episode it's the turn of Greece and Rome to come under the spotlight. To what extent did both cultures engage in this and how did their myths and rituals reflect their attitudes? All with a few puns thrown in to lighten the mood. Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai instrumental)
Human Sacrifice in Antiquity. Part One.
In the first of two episodes I chat about the instances of human sacrifice in ancient Mesopotamia and Carthage. Archaeology, forensics and the books of the Old Testament combine to throw some light on this chilling topic. Given the subject the content is strong at points and involves reference to child sacrifice, just to let you know. Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai instrumental)
