Dec 15, 2019

In this podcast I run the rule over the Roman Saturnalia a festival which started around the 17th December. What did it involve exactly, how did these elements appear and why?

Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai instrumental)

Nov 25, 2019

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)

Oct 28, 2019

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...

Aug 20, 2019

In this podcast I discuss three aspects of Pompeii. I start with how it developed and grew. I then look at the mechanics of the eruption. This includes considering the evidence which supports the major cause of deaths there. Finally I'll deal with what the remains tell us and how they might mislead as much as...

Aug 11, 2019

In this episode I continue the theme of early Rome by looking at its second King. Numa Pompilius.

I talk about how he came to the throne, what religious initiatives he set in place and how the sources handled their accounts of him. As ever there are some curious tangents involving dancing, possible magic, thunderstorms...