Ancient History Hound

The Sicilian Expedition is famous for being an utter disaster for ancient Athens during the Peloponnesian War. Over the course of several episodes I will get into what happened, how and why. I begin by considering an earlier expedition Athens undertook against Syracuse as well as how Thucydides presents it. I also talk about Syracuse and much more to set the scene for it all.

You can find me here.

If you can review or recommend that would be great, feel free to use those links (or email me at ancientblogger@hotmail.com) to say hi!

Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental).

Reading List and modern sources used:

Kagan, D. The Peloponnesian War

Kagan, D. Thucydides

Smith, DG. Thucydides' ignorant Athenians and the drama of the Sicilian Expedition.

Four months of ancient Roman festivals in one episode? What great value, well, perhaps not entirely but I explain why this is the case. The ancient Roman festival series ends with aplomb and includes an all out brawl, scandal, secret drinking and how a public performance at a party can be highly consequential

In case you notice my voice started going towards the end but hopefully won't notice it much. But in case you do that's what it is (as opposed to just bad audio).

You can find me here.

If you can review or recommend that would be great, feel free to use those links (or email me at ancientblogger@hotmail.com) to say hi!

Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental).

Reading list and modern sources used:

Arnhold, M. Male worshippers and the Cult of Bona Dea

Bennet Pascal, C. October Horse

Brouwer, HH. Bona Dea, the sources and description of the cult

Dolansky, F. Celebrating the Saturnalia

Green, MA. Dying for the Gods

Mastrocinque, A. October Equus

Michaels, A. Roman Festivals

Versnel, HS. Festival for Bona Dea and the Thesmophoria

Warde-Fowler, W. Roman Festivals

The Odyssey is trending so I though I would pick out some elements from the poem and discuss them. From trying to advocate for the suitors through to a theme I think is often missed, there is a lot to chat about.

I also include a promo for something you might be interested in, Alexandria: A Hellenistic World podcast.

Find me across social media and the like here and don't forget to check out the Ancient History Hound subreddit

Reading / sources used

The Odyssey (translated by Emily Wilson), this has a great introduction which covers a couple of the points raised.

Gazing at Helen with Stesichorus, Kampakoglu & A. Novokatko

Odyssey 5.234-53 and Homeric Ship Construction: A Reappraisal. Samuel E Mark.

Bronze and iron in Homer. Andrew Lang

Megarons and ΜΕΓΑΡΑ: Homer and Archaeology. Mary O Knox.

Artemidorus at the dream gates: Myth, theory, and the restoration of liminality. Vered Lev Kenaan

Hades, Homer and the Hittites. Gunnel Ekroth.

(for a great piece on katabasis and how it wasn't undertaken by Odysseus by Dr Ellie Mackin Roberts click here)

Priam's Katabasis: Traces of the Epic Journey to Hades in Iliad 24. Miguel Herrero de Jauregui

In this episode I get speculative and try to piece together what happened at the Consualia and an infamous event in Rome's early history. Alongside that there's Roman women saving the day, the strange disappearance of Romulus and more.

You can find me here.

If you can review or recommend that would be great, feel free to use those links (or email me at ancientblogger@hotmail.com) to say hi!

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.

Hodkinson, S. 'Blind Ploutos'?: Contemporary images of the role of wealth in classical Sparta

Kennell, NM. Gymnasium of Virtue: education & culture in ancient Sparta

Millender, EG. Spartan Literacy revisited

Pomeroy, S. Spartan Women

Scott, AG. Plural Marriage and the Spartan State

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@hotmail.com

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Feel free to find me and say hi! If you can rate or review please do but more importantly thanks for listening.

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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, Bluesky and TikTok as ancientblogger (see links below). There's my AncientBlogger YouTube channel and the Ancient History Hound subreddit. Come say hello (you can even go full old school and email me on ancientblogger@hotmail.com).

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Reading list and sources used

Bardunias, P. Storm of spears & press of shields

Bardunias, P & Eugene Ray Jnr, F. Hoplites at War

Cartledge, P. The Spartans

Cole, M. The Bronze Lie

Echeverrrai, F. Hoplite and Phalanx in archaic and Classical Greece a reassessment

Taktike Techne – the neglected element in classical 'hoplite battles'

Rusch, SM. Sparta at War

Special shoutout to the excellent BadAncient website,the In Our Time Sparta episode and the Sparta episodes on The Ancients podcast.

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 which have their part to play and get into a few anecdotes.

Find me on X, Instagram, Bluesky and TikTok as ancientblogger (see links below). There's my AncientBlogger YouTube channel and the Ancient History Hound subreddit. Come say hello (you can even go full old school and email me on ancientblogger@hotmail.com).

Find me here

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Reading list and sources used

Berry, PE & Knotterus JD. Spartan Society: Structural ritualization in an ancient social system

Cartledge, P. The Spartans

Davidson, J. The Greeks and Greek Love

Figueira, T. Mess contributions and subsistence at Sparta

Kennell, NM. Gymnasium of Virtue: education & culture in ancient Sparta

Luraghi & Alcock. Helots and their masters in Laconia and Messenia

Matyszak, P. Sparta, rise of a warrior nation

Miller, S.G. Ancient Greek Athletics.

Special shoutout to the excellent BadAncient website,the In Our Time Sparta episode and the Life in Sparta and the truth about Sparta episode on The Ancients podcast.

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 (and Bodhi).

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 Rome, Ostia and more.

Thanks again to the Partial Historians for letting me share these episodes. You can find their podcast via the link and also read their books, 'Rex: The Seven Kings of Rome' and 'Your Cheeky Guide to the Roman Empire', both well worth a read.

Feedback is always welcome (as are reviews). Feel free to contact me on social media (@ancientblogger on TikTok, Instagram, Bluesky, and X). There's also the Ancient History Hound subreddit and my Ancient Blogger YouTube channel. If you are really old school there's ancientblogger@hotmail.com

I hope you enjoy the second episode and thanks for taking the time to listen.

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 more. Plenty of tangents ensued which were all my fault as you will hear. Dr G and Dr Rad were fab hosts and I hope you enjoy the chat we had.

Thanks again to the Partial Historians for letting me share these episodes. You can find their podcast via the link and also read their books, 'Rex: The Seven Kings of Rome' and 'Your Cheeky Guide to the Roman Empire', both well worth a read.

I'm keen to know your thoughts on how I came across, I was both nervy and excited and a bit manic but I think I did ok. Feel free to contact me on social media (@ancientblogger on TikTok, Instagram, Bluesky, and X). There's also the Ancient History Hound subreddit and my Ancient Blogger YouTube channel. If you are really old school there's ancientblogger@hotmail.com

Reviews and such are always greatly appreciated. Part two will be uploaded in a couple of weeks.

Till then, keep safe and stay well.

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 areas covered. You'll also get to hear what made the emperor Tiberius angrier than he had ever been.

Find Dr Ball on TikTok, Instagram and X as @drjeball.

You can find me here

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If you can leave a review please do and check out the Ancient History Hound subreddit

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.

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No episode notes but see below for a list of books used in this episode (aside from original sources).

Ed Ankarloo & Clark. Witchcraft and Magic in Europe

Dickie, MW. Magic & Magicians in the Graeco Roman World

Lefkowitz & Kant. Women's Life in Greece & Rome.

Luck, G. Witches and sorcerers in classical literature.

Ogden, D. Magic, Witchcraft, and Ghosts in the Greek and Roman Worlds: A Source Book

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.

If you are on Reddit come and check out the AncientHistoryHound subreddit - don't forget to rate and review wherever you listen to your podcasts!

You can find me here

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It's time for April in ancient Rome which means overseas deities setting down roots, Romulus getting a free pass, sheep and much more.

You can find me here

If you are on Reddit come and check out the AncientHistoryHound subreddit - don't forget to rate and review where you can.

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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.

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Reviews on any platform are really welcome, thanks for those who have done so and for the kind messages!

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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.

You can find me here

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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 festivals celebrated in January and a bit about the name of the month.

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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.co.uk/

You can find me here

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.

Find me here 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.

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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?

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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.

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(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 here

There's also the subreddit for this podcast:

AncientHistoryHound

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Some further reading:

Mueller, M. The Language of Reciprocity in Euripides' Medea.

Oppenheim, AL. Letters from Mesopotamia.

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!

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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.

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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!

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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!

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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 main characters involved.

What was Rome trying to achieve here and who exactly was Varus, the Roman governor? Finally it's the turn of Arminius - do we know why he betrayed Rome? Dr Ball provides insight at every turn, it's a must listen. Part Two, where Dr Ball unwraps the events of the disaster, will be out soon.

Don't forget to rate and review, it really helps indie podcasters like me. Find me here

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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.

Find me here - if you can rate or review please do.

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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. Find me here.

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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'.

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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!

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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. Find me here

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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!

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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. Find me here

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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.

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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!

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.

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If you can rate or review please do but more importantly have a great Halloween.

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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. Find me here.

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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.

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If you can rate or review - please do!

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).

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If you can rate or review please do - it makes a big difference.

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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.

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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?

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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!

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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 famous instance involving the Lupercalia.

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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).

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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 cover the three Roman campaigns in Scotland - so subscribe to avoid missing out!

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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. Find me here.

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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!

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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). Find me here.

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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. Find me here.

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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 here.

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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.

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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.

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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?

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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.

If you can review or send feedback my way I'd be grateful. More importantly, keep safe and thanks for listening. Find me here.

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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 there's a few which are relevant today.

I've also swapped promos with the Ancient Office Hours podcast, whose promo features - so go check them out!

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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 try to unpack to see how each side approached it and what tactics were used. Aside from the brutality and bloodshed there's a lot to get into.

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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 canine art cameo ever.

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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. Find me here.

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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. Find me here.

If you can rate or review please do - it really helps.

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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 on allows a review then why not? It really helps! Find me here.

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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.

Find me here and please rate and review if you can.

FYI we do mention sexual violence (as per Greek myth).

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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? Find me here

Listen and find out!

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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? Join us and find out. Find me here.

Music by Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental).

It's the final of my Theban trilogy. In this episode I discuss the highs and lows for Thebes in the 4th century BC. 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? Find me here.

Music by Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental).

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).

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).

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 Instrumental).

Artwork from Assassin's Creed Odyssey. Play it, it's a great game!

Here's yours truly giving a pep talk as to why you might want to subscribe to the show.

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 by Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental).

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).

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 banquet and why alcohol and sieges don't mix.

LJ Trafford's 'How to Survive in Ancient Rome' is out now!

Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental).

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)

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)

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 courtesy of https://theblogofdimi.com/

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 Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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 inform.

The sources I reference:

Mary Beard. Pompeii. The Life of a Roman Town.

Giuseppe Luongo,Annamaria Perrotta,Claudio Scarpati,Ernesto De Carolis,Giovanni Patricelli,Annamaria Ciarallo. Impact of the AD 79 explosive eruption on Pompeii. Causes of the deaths of the inhabitants inferred by stratigraphic analysis and areal distribution of the human casualties. Journal of Volcanology and Geothermal research. Vol 126.

L, Giacomelli. A, Perrotta. Scandone, Roberto. Scarpati, Claudio. The eruption of Vesuvius of 79 AD and its impact on human environment in Pompeii.

Giuseppe Mastrolorenzo. Pierpaolo Petrone. Lucia Pappalardo. Fabio M. Guarino. Lethal Thermal Impact at Periphery of Pyroclastic Surges: Evidences at Pompeii.

Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai instrumental)

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 and stinking charms.

Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental)

Please note that this includes references to the Rape of the Sabine Women and sexual references.

In this episode I take a look into Rome's foundation myth and how Livy, Dionysus and Plutarch handled the various elements within it.

Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental)

In the second episode on Spartan Women I look at what an adult woman might have got up to. From quite a curious marriage ceremony through to the terrifying prospect of a Spartan mother. It's all here.

Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental)

The first of two episodes where I discuss the experiences a Spartan woman had throughout her life.

Part one includes a general overview of Sparta before I recount what it might have been like for a Spartan as she grew up.

Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental)

In this episode I am looking at how Carthage expanded into the Iberian Peninsula and how this location furnished Hannibal with the means to march on Rome.

Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental)

In this episode I discuss how Thersites, Scamander and Sarpedon shape the way we understand the Iliad, other characters in it and even wider themes.

Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental)

Join me and special guest expert Emma as we discuss how hygienic the Roman baths really were. Did they help or hinder disease?

Plenty of gruesome detail, so, leave till after lunch.

Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental)

It's that time of year to listen to some spooky tales from antiquity. I discuss how werewolves have changed, early versions of the vampire and dig up ghosts stories from ancient Greece and Rome.

In this podcast I look at the different types of bathing in antiquity, from the Greeks to the Romans. How did the Greeks bathe exactly? What were the Roman baths like?

In addition I reason what linked Menelaus and Liberace, impersonate Seneca and mention the most devious use for the floor of a caldarium.

Some minor adult content (thanks Martial), but no swearing.

Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental)

In this podcast I look at the oddity that was ostracism in Ancient Athens. Why was it needed? What did it aim to do? There's also a brief chat about tyrants and which includes an instance which Herodotus calls the silliest trick in history.

Feel free to find me on twitter (@ancientblogger)

Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental)

To what extent does Thucydides alter and tweak his account of the Athenian disaster? In this episode I look at some of the arguments which suggest Thucydides amended and changed his account to align with his views through subtle and none-too-subtle techniques.

I also point out why Nicias would be an ideal guest at a poker night.

Feel free to find me on twitter (@ancientblogger)

Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental)

On the back of a 5km march in Roman armour for the Rise UK charity (here's my JustGiving) I look at marching in the Roman empire including some fancy stats and how the reforms of Marius affected the legionary in this respect. Want to know how many Mars bars a legionary would work off? Who was Marius' favourite X-Men character? The important questions finally covered...

Steve Kaye's fine work can be found here. You might also want to refer to my website article with some of the figures (here).

Feel free to find me on twitter (@ancientblogger)

Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental)

A weekly recap of some pointers from Troy, Fall of a City. In the final epsiode I go over what happened during the sack of Troy, why the wooden horse makes sense and how not to exit a wooden horse if you ever find yourself in one.

Feel free to find me on twitter (@ancientblogger)

Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental)

A weekly recap of some pointers from Troy, Fall of a City. In the seventh epsiode I unwrap the dialogue between Priam and Achilles, what the chariots did and wonder where the talking horse got to.

Feel free to find me on twitter (@ancientblogger)

Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental)

A weekly recap of some pointers from Troy, Fall of a City. In the sixth epsiode I consider whether we can date Patroclus' death, why Penthesilea would have terrified Hitler had she been on the moon and the big showdown between Achilles and Hector.

Feel free to find me on twitter (@ancientblogger)

Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental)

A weekly recap of some pointers from Troy, Fall of a City. In the fifth epsiode I examine the themes of infanticide, jumping off cliffs with Aphrodite and negotiating with Achilles. For obvious reasons Mean Girls gets a mention too.

Feel free to find me on twitter (@ancientblogger) as I'll be following each episode live.

Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental)