Ancient History Hound

I'm all about ancient history so why not join me as I explore Greece, Rome and other cultures from antiquity. I cover a range of topics which are suitable for all levels of understanding. Have a scroll through and start listening. Find me on Instagram, TikTok, X and Bluesky as @ancientblogger. There's also the @ancientblogger YouTube channel and the Ancient History Hound subreddit. Come say hi!

Festivals in ancient Rome: September to December 09/06/2026

Festivals in ancient Rome: September to December 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). If you can review or recommend that would be great, feel free to use those links (or email me at ) 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 /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/42798025

Oddities in the Odyssey 08/03/2026

Oddities in the Odyssey 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, . Find me across social media and the like and don't forget to check out the 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 ) Priam’s Katabasis: Traces of the Epic Journey to Hades in Iliad 24. Miguel Herrero de Jauregui /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/42297780

Festivals in ancient Rome: July & August 06/22/2026

Festivals in ancient Rome: July & August 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. If you can review or recommend that would be great, feel free to use those links (or email me at ) to say hi! /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/41725805

Sparta in the Spotlight. Part III 06/03/2026

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? 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 /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/41524400

Hannibal: surprise, Celts and not besieging Rome 05/04/2026

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 Feel free to find me and say hi! If you can rate or review please do but more importantly thanks for listening. Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental). /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/41140770

Sparta in the Spotlight. Part II 03/27/2026

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, 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 ). Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental). 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 ,the In Our Time Sparta episode and the Sparta episodes on The Ancients podcast. /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/40643580

Sparta in the Spotlight. Part I 02/24/2026

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 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 ). Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental). 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 ,the In Our Time Sparta episode and the Life in Sparta and the truth about Sparta episode on The Ancients podcast. /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/40214300

2026 update 01/25/2026

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 and AncientBlogger . 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). /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/39867785

Exploring Place in Regal Rome (Part 2). 12/30/2025

Exploring Place in Regal Rome (Part 2). This is the second of two episodes where I was a guest back in 2024 on the , 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 I hope you enjoy the second episode and thanks for taking the time to listen. /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/39566535

Exploring Place in Regal Rome (Part 1). 12/15/2025

Exploring Place in Regal Rome (Part 1). This is the first of two episodes where I was a guest back in 2024 on the , 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 Reviews and such are always greatly appreciated. Part two will be uploaded in a couple of weeks. Till then, keep safe and stay well. /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/39412845

Tacfarinas with Dr Jo Ball 12/01/2025

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 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. Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental). If you can leave a review please do and check out the /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/39221315

Witches in ancient Rome 10/26/2025

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. 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 /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/38782290

Festivals in ancient Rome: May & June 10/02/2025

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. 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! Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental). /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/38441255

Festivals in ancient Rome: April 09/07/2025

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. 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 Instrumental). /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/38117080

Festivals in ancient Rome: March 07/30/2025

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. 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). /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/37608705

Festivals in ancient Rome: February 06/23/2025

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. Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental). /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/37110825

Festivals in ancient Rome: January 05/31/2025

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 festivals celebrated in January and a bit about the name of the month. Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental). /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/36799275

Film review: The Return with Lottie Luke. 04/21/2025

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: /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/36241685

Ancient Sicily (pt7). Dionysius I: Poetry and Politics. 04/11/2025

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. 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 Vrai Instrumental). /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/36094840

Podcast update! 03/02/2025

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? /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/35498370

Pliny the Younger 01/17/2025

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. Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental) /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/34895595

Minisode: Gifts. 12/17/2024

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. There's also the subreddit for this podcast: Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental) Some further reading: Mueller, M. The Language of Reciprocity in Euripides' Medea. Oppenheim, AL. Letters from Mesopotamia. /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/34487930

Ancient Sicily (pt6). Dionysius I: Countering Carthage. 12/08/2024

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! Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental). /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/34332350

Curse tablets and figurines. 11/03/2024

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. Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental). /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/33761582

Guest Episode - The Partial Historians on Spartacus. 09/19/2024

Guest Episode - The Partial Historians on Spartacus. This is a guest episode which features the 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! Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental). /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/33120492

The Teutoburg Disaster with Dr Ball: Part Two. 09/07/2024

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). /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/32952452

The Teutoburg Disaster with Dr Ball: Part One. 08/22/2024

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 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. Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental). /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/32688872

Ancient Sicily (pt5). Revenge & Ruin. 07/21/2024

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. - if you can rate or review please do. Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental). /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/32231892

Ancient Sicily (pt4). The Sicilian Expedition. 06/22/2024

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. Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental). /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/31846877

Tyrants in ancient Greece. 06/09/2024

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'. Music by Brakhage (Le Vrai Instrumental). /episode/index/show/ancientblogger/id/31666797

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