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by What a Classic!
Step into the enchanting realm of mythology and explore the roots of modern civilisation! This beginner-friendly podcast introduces you to the fascinating tales of gods, heroes, and the rich culture of the Classical World. From epic adventures to moral lessons, each episode explores the things that have shaped our history and continue to influence modern society. Perfect for newcomers eager to discover the timeless stories that connect us all!Series 1 - XOXO Gossip God
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- 5 days ago29 min
The Roman Republic: Rise and Fall
In this episode of The Classical Companion, we explore one of the most remarkable political systems of the ancient world: the Roman Republic.How did a small city on the banks of the Tiber grow into the dominant power of the Mediterranean? What made the Republic so successful for almost five centuries?And why did a system built on checks and balances ultimately collapse?In this episode, we'll explore:The origins of the Roman Republic following the overthrow of the monarchy.How the Senate, consuls, magistrates, tribunes and popular assemblies worked together to govern Rome.The growing pressures of wealth inequality, military loyalty and political violence.How figures such as Marius, Sulla and Julius Caesar exposed the Republic's weaknesses.Why the Republic's institutions could no longer withstand the pressures of empire.Whether you're studying Classical Studies, fascinated by Roman history or simply curious about how one of history's most influential republics rose and fell, this episode offers an accessible introduction to the political system that shaped the ancient world.If you enjoyed today's episode, please consider following What a Classic! and leaving a rating or review. It really helps more people discover the podcast.Instagram: @whataclassicpodcastWebsite: www.whataclassicpodcast.com
- 1 weeks ago34 min
Understanding The Odyssey
What a Classic! is back!After a short break, I'm delighted to return with an episode exploring one of the greatest stories ever told: Homer's Odyssey. With Christopher Nolan's upcoming adaptation generating excitement around the world, there has never been a better time to revisit the epic journey of Odysseus and ask why this ancient poem continues to captivate audiences nearly 3,000 years after it was first composed.In this episode, we'll explore:Why the Odyssey remains one of history's most enduring stories.The journey of Odysseus from the fall of Troy to his return to Ithaca.His encounters with the Cicones, Lotus-Eaters, Cyclops, Aeolus, Circe, the Sirens, Scylla and Charybdis, the cattle of Helios, Calypso and many more.What these adventures reveal about Odysseus as one of literature's most complex heroes.The challenges of adapting Homer's epic for modern cinema.My thoughts and expectations ahead of Christopher Nolan's adaptation of The Odyssey.Why this film has the potential to inspire a new generation to discover the ancient world.Whether you're a lifelong Classicist or discovering the Odyssey for the first time, I hope you'll join me as we embark on one of literature's greatest adventures.If you enjoyed today's episode, please consider following What a Classic! and leaving a rating or review. It really helps more people discover the podcast.Instagram: @whataclassicpodcastWebsite: www.whataclassicpodcast.com
- Oct 2, 202533 min
The Foundation of Rome
This week on What a Classic!, we are going back to the very beginnings of Ancient Rome. From the fall of Troy and Aeneas’ fateful journey, to the legendary tale of Romulus and Remus, we trace how myth and history intertwine in Rome’s foundation story.How much of this is legend, and how much is rooted in archaeology? Why did the Romans tie their origins so closely to Greece?And what can these myths tell us about Rome’s values and identity?Join us as we explore gods, heroes, she-wolves, kings, and the rise of a city that would go on to shape the world.
- Sep 18, 202540 min
A Guide to Classical Symbolism
Tune in to this listener-requested episode on Classical Symbolism, where we explore key symbols from ancient Greece, Rome and Egypt. Grouping symbols together into broad themes, this episode covers: The Golden Fleece Poseidon’s Trident Zeus’ Eagle and Lightning Bolt The Ankh and the Was Sceptre Anubis Imagery of love: Eros and Cupid Medusa Nike The River Styx Egyptian Funerary Masks Persephone’s pomegranate And so many more! What were they, what did they represent, and where are the modern parallels? We explore these key questions throughout.
- Sep 11, 202530 min
The Athenian Legal System
In this episode, we explore the Athenian legal system, focusing on how justice was administered and the role of citizens in upholding the law. We start by looking at the Scythians as a historical comparison, before examining the courts (dikasteria), the jury (dikastai), and the trial process itself. Join us as we break down how large juries of ordinary citizens were used to decide verdicts, the strengths and weaknesses of this system, and the ways emotion, persuasion, and social status could influence outcomes. We also reflect on who was excluded from participation and how this shaped Athenian ideas of justice and fairness. Discover how the legal system functioned alongside other democratic institutions, the balance it tried to achieve between citizen involvement and expertise, and what lessons we can draw from it about civic responsibility and political power. Whether you’re curious about ancient law, the role of citizens in democracy, or the roots of trial and justice, this episode provides a clear and engaging look at how Athens sought to govern fairly in the Classical period. Episode Schedule: New episodes of The Classical Companion drop on Thursdays New episodes of our Classical Literature series (currently retelling Homer’s Iliad) air on Mondays
- Sep 4, 202538 min
Athenian Democracy
In this episode of The Classical Companion, we explore the inner workings of Athenian democracy, focusing on how power was structured and balanced to prevent monopolisation. We start with the Ekklesia (Assembly), the largest democratic body made up of all eligible citizens, before examining the Boule (Council of 500), the Strategoi (Military Generals), the practice of ostracism, and the Archons (Magistrates).Join us as we break down how these institutions worked together to ensure citizen participation, influence military and political decisions, and prevent any one individual from dominating Athenian politics. Discover how this system shaped civic life, encouraged debate, and laid the foundations for the democratic ideas that continue to inspire the modern world. Whether you’re curious about ancient governance, civic responsibility, or the roots of democracy, this episode provides a clear and engaging introduction to how Athens ran itself in the Classical period. Episode Schedule: New episodes of The Classical Companion drop on Thursdays New episodes of our Classical Literature series (currently retelling Homer’s Iliad) air on Mondays
- Sep 1, 202540 min
Iliad Book 11: The Broken Line
Book 11 plunges into relentless battle as dawn brings the goddess of Strife to rouse both armies. Agamemnon leads a fierce Greek assault, killing Trojan warriors – including Priam’s sons – until he is wounded and forced from the fight. Zeus seizes the moment, empowering Hector’s counterattack. One by one, Greek champions – Agamemnon, Diomedes, Odysseus, Machaon and Eurypylos – are struck down. Hector drives the Greeks back towards their ships, with only Ajax holding the line. Meanwhile, Nestor carries the injured Machaon to safety, catching Achilles’ attention. Patroclus is sent to investigate and hears a long, pointed tale from Nestor, quietly setting the stage for his own tragic role. Tune in for: The goddess of Strife sparking the renewal of a fierce battle, led by Agamemnon. The wounding of many of our favourite Greek heroes Patroclus and Achilles’ fate slowly being set in motion
- Aug 28, 202528 min
Athenian Politics - The Road to Democracy
In this episode of The Classical Companion, we explore the road to Athenian democracy. Join us as we break down Athens’ transition from monarchy to aristocracy, the role of early kings and archons, and the social tensions caused by debt and inequality. Discover how Draco’s harsh laws and Solon’s reforms helped reshape Athenian society, laying the foundations for broader citizen participation and the eventual rise of democracy. Whether you’re curious about ancient politics, law, or the origins of democratic principles, this episode provides a clear and engaging look at the complex journey that shaped Athens’ political world. Episode Schedule: New episodes of The Classical Companion drop on Thursdays New episodes of our Classical Literature series (currently retelling Homer’s Iliad) air on Mondays.
About What a Classic!
Step into the enchanting realm of mythology and explore the roots of modern civilisation! This beginner-friendly podcast introduces you to the fascinating tales of gods, heroes, and the rich culture of the Classical World. From epic adventures to moral lessons, each episode explores the things that have shaped our history and continue to influence modern society. Perfect for newcomers eager to discover the timeless stories that connect us all!Series 1 - XOXO Gossip God
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