Recent Entries

From Emperors of Rome at 2024-04-11 03:20:18

Episode CCXXII - A Stolen Election (The Catiline Conspiracy III) (240411-catiline03.mp3)

Catiline attempted to become consul of Rome more than once, and its a position he believes he deserves. When he fails in his efforts and Cicero is elected he attempts to force the issue, conspiring with all those who have a grudge against the state.

Part III of The Catiline Conspiracy

Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2024-03-28 11:16:56

Episode CCXXI - An Entire Farrago (The Catiline Conspiracy II) (249328-catiline02.mp3)

Catiline doesn't have the best reputation in Rome, and in the years after his failed conspiracy he has been implicated in every failed plot of that time. Was he involved in them? Possibly.

Part II of The Catiline Conspiracy

Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2024-03-15 04:34:19

Episode CCXX - A Disordered Mind (The Catiline Conspiracy I) (240315-catiline01.mp3)

Catiline is a notorious figure of the Roman republic, a longtime rival of Cicero who, after repeated attempts at the consulship decided to push the matter by force. In this episode we look at his character, his role in the social wars of Rome and his early attempts at office.

Part I of The Catiline Conspiracy

Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2024-02-21 06:08:42

Episode CCXIX - Hispala Faecena and the Bacchanalia Conspiracy (240221-hispala-faecena.mp3)

Hispala Faecena was instrumental in bringing the cult of Bacchus to the attention of Roman authorities, ending a conspiracy that was threatening lives and the rule of law.

Guest:

Dr Emma Southon (Author of 'A History of the Roman Empire in 21 Women')

Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2024-02-08 03:17:41

Episode CCXVIII - Martial on the Emperors (240208-martial-emperors.mp3)

Martial was a Roman poet primarily writing during the reign of Domitian, and while primarily known for his commentary on Roman life, his takedowns, his insults and vulgarity, in this episode we look at how he toes the careful line of praising the Emperor.

Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2023-12-15 03:23:09

Episode CCXVII - Angeronalia (231215-angeronalia.mp3)

Yes, it’s that festive time of year again, when you gather all ye merry people with sore throats, stand around a statue with its mouth covered, and keep the sacred name of Rome safe.

Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2023-10-27 09:19:32

Episode CCXVI - A Roman Haunting in Three Parts (231027-haunting.mp3)

A dire warning from the spirit of Africa! A Haunting in Athens! And someone cuts the hair of Pliny's freedman.

Pliny the Younger presents a Roman Haunting in Three Parts.

Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2023-09-18 00:08:03

Episode CCXV - The Unconquered Sun (230917-aurelian04.mp3)

Aurelian is known as a conqueror, a general and a restorer, and his reputation is based on those achievements. But in his short rule of five years, he was also an Emperor, and made efforts to leave his mark on Rome.

Part IV of 'Aurelian'

Guest: Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2023-08-25 07:27:29

Episode CCXIV - Aurelian, Restorer of the Age (230825-aurelian03.mp3)

Aurelian has seen off vandals, goths, and conquered the forces of Zenobia to reclaim the east. But to the west lies the Gallic Empire, once firm territory of Rome, awaiting his attention.

Part III of 'Aurelian'

Guest: Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2023-08-04 03:44:42

Episode CCXIII - Zenobia (230804-zenobia.mp3)

The weakness of Rome was the strength of Palmyra, and the east came to be be ruled by the Queen Zenobia. Cultured and ambitious, her empire stretched from Egypt to Turkey, which made her a formidable challenge for Aurelian.

Part II of 'Aurelian'

Guest: Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2023-07-14 04:18:28

Episode CCXII - Aurelian, the Restorer of the World (230714-aurelian01.mp3)

Aurelian became Emperor of a fractured empire. To the west the Gallic Empire had been established ten years earlier, the eastern provinces were now controlled by Zenobia, and there were threats from the vandals in the North. To unite an empire, this will be his first priority.

Guest: Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2023-06-23 14:45:38

Episode CCXI - Claudius Gothicus (230623-claudius-gothicus.mp3)

The treacherous death of Gallienus saw the rise of a man of war. Claudius Gothicus definitely earned his title, but with a reign of only two years perhaps he made the right kind of impact without the time to leave a bad impression. For an emperor in the third century that was more than enough, and he left an example for all who followed after.

Guest: Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2023-06-08 13:01:48

Episode CCX - A Lesson in Latin III (230608-latin-iii.mp3)

What Latin words and concepts for time are still with us today?

Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2023-05-12 06:49:26

Episode CCIX - A Diminished Rome (230512-gallienus04.mp3)

While much of the Roman Empire was lost during the rule of Gallienus, We don't really know how much of that is his fault, or really get a sense of his reign. Was he responsible for the loss of territory, or was he just a victim of the time?

Part IV of 'Gallienus'

Guest: Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University).

Support production of a new series of the When in Rome podcast on Kickstarter.

From Emperors of Rome at 2023-04-28 04:59:06

Episode CCVIII - Odaenathus, King of Kings (230428-odaenathus.mp3)

As the Roman empire lost the western provinces something very different was happening in the east. Odaenathus remained on the side of Rome, but assumed the title of King, building his influence throughout the region, to the point where it became a problem for Gallienus.

Part III of 'Gallienus'

Guest: Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University).

Support production of a new series of the When in Rome podcast on Kickstarter.

From Emperors of Rome at 2023-03-29 06:21:10

Episode CCVII - The Gallic Empire (230329-gallic-empire.mp3)

A challenge to the imperial authority was hardly unusual in the third century, but for whatever reason, Postumus decides to do things differently.

Rather than marching an army on Rome he shaves off the western provinces, declaring Gaul, Germania, Hispania and Britannia the independent, but still very Roman, Gallic Empire.

Part II of 'Gallienus'

Guest: Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2023-03-17 02:02:36

Episode CCVI - Rome Crumbles (230317-gallienus01.mp3)

When the Emperor Valerian was captured by the enemy what the empire needed was a trusted, capable, firm set of hands to take on the imperial mantle. In retrospect, that probably wasn’t his son Gallienus.

For the next eight years Gallienus would rule as sole emperor and proceed to lose two thirds of the empire, leaving Rome at its weakest position in centuries.

Part I of 'Gallienus'

Guest: Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2023-03-03 02:02:24

Episode CCV - Cleopatra Selene (230303-cleopatra-selene.mp3)

Cleopatra Selene was the daughter of Cleopatra and Mark Antony, and was destined for greatness. Following the death of her parents she became a prisoner of Rome, survived into adulthood, and became a queen of the ancient world.

Dr Draycott is the author of ''Cleopatra’s Daughter: Egyptian Princess, Roman Prisoner, African Queen'.

Guest: Dr Jane Draycott (Classics, University of Glascow)

From Emperors of Rome at 2023-02-03 02:58:49

Episode CCIV - Octavian's Illyrian War (230202-octavian-illyria.mp3)

Part of the making of Octavian was the victories he had early in his career. He defeated his rivals, conquered territory, and united the senate behind him whether they liked it or not.

One of those territories was Illyria, in which he conducted campaigns during the quiet years before his final battles against Egypt and Antony. It’s perhaps in Illyria that we see Octavian display his greatest acts of bravery, if not ability.

Guest: Dr Christopher Gribbin (Adjunct Lecturer, La Trobe University)

From Emperors of Rome at 2023-01-09 03:41:52

Episode CCIII - Augustan Egypt (230109-augustan-egypt.mp3)

Egypt was a valuable province to Rome, with natural wealth and successful agriculture. Thanks to an arid climate there’s also a number of preserved papyri from that era, providing modern scholarship with an invaluable paper-trail on the administration at the time.

One papyri has led to the belief that Augustus confiscated lands of the Egyptian temples, and ultimately the decline of Egypt’s religions.

Andrew Connor is the author of Confiscation or Coexistence: Egyptian Temples in the Age of Augustus published by University of Michigan Press.

Guest: Dr Andrew Connor (Lecturer, Centre for Ancient Cultures, Monash University)

From Emperors of Rome at 2022-12-09 03:47:01

Episode CCII - The Death of Cleopatra and Antony (221209-death-cleopatra.mp3)

With Octavian triumphant at the Battle of Actium the scene is finally set for a dramatic showdown in Alexandria. Cleopatra and Antony, a couple famous for their strategy and volatility will pay the ultimate price for resisting Rome, leaving Octavian free to assume a role of undisputed power.

Guest: Dr Rhiannon Evans (Associate Professor in Classics and Ancient History at La Trobe University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2022-11-10 04:23:56

Episode CCI - Actium (221110-actium.mp3)

In 31 BCE one of the largest naval battles in the ancient world took place—more than 600 ships, almost 200,000 men, and one woman. The forces of Octavian, Antony and Cleopatra would square off for control of the mediterranean, and ultimately the Roman empire.

Guest: Barry Strauss (Bryce and Edith M. Bowmar Professor in Humanistic Studies at Cornell University, author of The War That Made the Roman Empire: Antony, Cleopatra, and Octavian at Actium).

From Emperors of Rome at 2022-10-27 07:02:47

Episode CC - Cleopatra and Antony (Live in Melbourne) (221027-cleopatra-antony.mp3)

When Cleopatra and Antony stood side by side they were at the pinnacle of power. Cleopatra VII Thea Philopator was the queen of an ancient civilisation, and heir to the unmatched cultural achievements of Greece. Marcus Antonius of Rome contended for control of the empire.

Together they fought against Octavian and would bring about the end of the republic, and the start of a new age for Rome.

Recorded live at ACMI studios in Melbourne on 4th October, 2022.

Guest: Dr Rhiannon Evans (Associate Professor in Classics and Ancient History at La Trobe University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2022-10-12 01:04:16

Episode CXCIX - Sextus Pompeius (221012-sextus-pompeius.mp3)

Sextus Pompeius was the youngest son of Pompey the Great, and was responsible for leading the last great resistance of the Roman republic against Octavian and Mark Antony. While he made the most of his late father’s reputation, Sextus was a leader in his own right, and to many a forgotten aspect of this period of Roman history.

Guest: Dr Kathryn Welch (Honorary Associate Professor, Department of Classics and Ancient History, University of Sydney).

From Emperors of Rome at 2022-10-04 03:27:12

Episode CXCVIII - Octavia (221004-octavia.mp3)

Octavia was, in many ways, the very model of a modern Roman matron. As the older sister to Octavian, later Augustus, and a wife of the powerful figure Antony, she was respected and admired by her contemporaries for her loyalty, nobility and humanity, as well as for maintaining traditional Roman feminine virtues.

Guest: Dr Rhiannon Evans (Associate Professor in Classics and Ancient History at La Trobe University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2022-09-15 06:24:32

Episode CXCVII - The Perusine War (220915-perusine-war.mp3)

With Antony distracted with developments in the east, Fulvia finds herself in the familiar position of advocating for her husband’s interests. This escalated to a war with Octavian, the outcome of which would leave Fulvia isolated.

Guest: Dr Rhiannon Evans (Associate Professor in Classics and Ancient History at La Trobe University).

Content warning: There is rude Augustan poetry in this episode, as well as some rather insulting missiles. Please be advised.

Emperors of Rome will celebrate its 200th episode with a live recording in Melbourne on October 4th. Get your free tickets!

From Emperors of Rome at 2022-08-31 05:46:08

Episode CXCVI - Fulvia (220831-fulvia.mp3)

Fulvia came from a Roman noble family and is strongly associated with a string of influential husbands, most notably Mark Antony. She was influential and powerful in her own way, and would go on to play an important role in the Perusine War against Octavian.

Guest: Dr Rhiannon Evans (Associate Professor in Classics and Ancient History at La Trobe University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2022-08-11 07:51:38

Episode CXCV - Q and A VIII (220811-qanda8.mp3)

For the eighth time, listeners provide questions and Rhiannon and Matt answer! In this episode:

- Was Antony rehabilitated?

- Did Classical Latin have regional dialects?

- How did Romans celebrate their birthday?

- Who was the first true Roman emperor?

- How much of the Roman Empire remains in the modern world?

- What were some of the Roman’s most notable superstitions?

- Did a Roman soldier get time off?

- When did it become customary for Romans to learn Greek?

- Did Rome have a foodie culture?

Guest: Dr Rhiannon Evans (Associate Professor in Classics and Ancient History at La Trobe University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2022-07-27 07:51:32

Episode CXCIV - Sea Monsters in Roman Mythology (220727-sea-monsters.mp3)

Rome has always been a sea-faring power, relying on the Mediterranean for food and trade. But what lies beneath the waves can chill the hearts of mortal men, and tales of aquatic horrors were common in antiquity.

Guest: Dr Gillian Shepherd (Director, Trendall Centre, La Trobe University)

From Emperors of Rome at 2022-07-14 11:34:35

Episode CXCIII - The Humiliation of Caesar (Valerian III) (220714-valerian03.mp3)

With enemies to confront in every direction, Valerian heads back to the east where Shapur and the Parthians are once again threatening the borders of the Roman empire. While Valerian anticipates a victory, what is to come is the greatest defeat of a Roman emperor.

Episode III of 'Valerian'.

Guest: Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2022-07-01 01:49:19

Episode CXCII - The Persecution of Christians (Valerian II) (220701-valerian02.mp3)

Religious persecution wasn’t a new thing for Rome, but under the rule of Valerian they intensified. Christians were now the specified target, but the executions and confiscation of property did little to help the stability of the empire.

Episode II of 'Valerian'.

Guest: Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2022-06-13 06:16:47

Episode CXCI - Empire Under Siege (220613-valerian01.mp3)

When Valerian became emperor in 253CE Rome was fighting on all fronts. With Shapur and the Syrians taking territory in the east, and Germanic tribes to the west and the north, the empire was going to get messy for Valerian and his newly established dynasty.

Guest: Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2022-05-26 13:19:35

Episode CXC - I, Augustus (with Brian Blessed) (220526-brian-blessed.mp3)

Brian Blessed is a treasured British actor who for our purposes will fondly be remembered for his iconic role as Emperor Augustus in the 1976 BBC television series I, Claudius. Brian dominated the screen with his performance and we were very lucky to get the chance to speak to him.

Now funding on Kickstarter: Agricola (the podcast miniseries).

Guests:
Brian Blessed
Dr Rhiannon Evans (Associate Professor in Classics and Ancient History at La Trobe University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2022-05-20 09:04:28

Episode CLXXXIX - Nero and the Great Fire of Rome (Live in Canberra) (220520-nero-live.mp3)

On the night of 18 July, 64 CE, a fire broke out in the Circus Maximus at Rome. It raged for nine days, destroying or damaging ten of the city’s fourteen regions.

Was the fire just a terrible accident? Or was it deliberately lit, either by dissident Christians or by the emperor Nero, who allegedly sang while Rome burned?

Recorded on 12th April 2022, in front of a live audience at the Australian National University.

Now funding on Kickstarter: Agricola (the podcast miniseries).

Guest: Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2022-05-11 07:55:58

Episode CLXXXVIII - How to Win a Consular Election (220511-consular-election.mp3)

Every year Rome held an election in which two senators were chosen for the role of consul. Being elected consul was a great honour, and the position was hotly contested, and a successful campaign depended upon the candidate’s military achievements, rhetorical skills and their willingness to be corrupt.

Now funding on Kickstarter: Agricola (the podcast miniseries).

Guest: Dr Rhiannon Evans (Associate Professor in Classics and Ancient History at La Trobe University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2022-04-29 15:44:23

Episode CLXXXVII - The Battle of Philippi (220430-philippi.mp3)

More than two years have passed since the death of Caesar, and we now find our story at the final battle of the Liberator’s war. Octavian and Mark Antony lead their forces west to confront Cassius and Brutus, who have amassed quite the army in the meantime.

Part VI of 'The Liberator's War'

Guest: Assistant Professor Steele Brand (History, The King’s College, New York City).

From Emperors of Rome at 2022-04-21 13:15:45

Episode CLXXXVI - Proscriptions (220421-proscriptions.mp3)

Octavian, Mark Antony and Lepidus have secured their alliance against Caesar's assassins, and since they have control of Rome, it's time for them to get rid of any competition. Proscribing an enemy means they will likely be executed, and their personal fortunes can be confiscated and put towards paying soldiers - and the second triumvirate make full use of this.

Part V of 'The Liberator's War'

Guest: Assistant Professor Zachary Herz (Legal Historian, Department of Classics, University of Colorado Boulder).

From Emperors of Rome at 2022-03-29 04:12:41

Episode CLXXXV - The Second Triumvirate (220329-2nd-triumvirate.mp3)

After his victory in at Mutina, Octavian desired honours that the senate declined to award him. This led him to re-evaluate who his enemy truly was, and make an alliance with the recently defeated Mark Antony.

Part IV of 'The Liberator's War'

Guest: Dr Rhiannon Evans (Associate Professor in Classics and Ancient History at La Trobe University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2022-03-21 02:54:40

Episode CLXXXIV - The Siege of Mutina (220321-siege-mutina.mp3)

As Antony heads north he finds the city of Mutina defended by Decimus Brutus. Antony lays siege, but he doesn't count on a young Octavian leading the army to confront him.

Part III of 'The Liberator's War'

Guest: Dr Rhiannon Evans (Associate Professor in Classics and Ancient History at La Trobe University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2022-02-26 11:14:34

Episode CLXXXIII - Philippics (220226-philippics.mp3)

As the power struggle in Rome continued and generals waged their war on the battlefield, Cicero took to the floors of the senate, confronting Antony with the greatest weapon in his arsenal: the spoken word. He called his speeches the Philippics, and they were influential in turning the senate against Antony.

Part II of 'The Liberator's War'

Guest: Dr Kathryn Tempest (Reader in Classics and Ancient History, University of Roehampton).

From Emperors of Rome at 2022-02-08 22:42:21

Episode CLXXXII - The Empty Throne (220209-empty-throne.mp3)

Caesar’s death created a power vacuum in the city of Rome. While Antony struggled against the senate to make a deal and assert his dominance, Octavian’s imminent arrival presented a rival he couldn’t anticipate.

Part I of 'The Liberator's War'

Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Senior Lecturer in Classics and Ancient History at La Trobe University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2022-01-27 23:11:42

Episode CLXXXI - Crucifixion (220128-crucifixion.mp3)

Crucifixion was a Roman practise or torture and execution that proved a popular punishment for slaves and enemies of Rome When crucified an individual was nailed to a cross or a piece of wood and left in the elements to asphyxiate.

Obvious content warning!

Guest: Dr Gillian Shepherd (Director, Trendall Centre, La Trobe University)

From Emperors of Rome at 2022-01-12 01:36:34

Episode CLXXX - The Fort (220112-the-fort.mp3)

The Roman fort functioned as a base of operations for the army, a defensive and functional structure that could protect both the frontier of the Roman Empire and the supply lines.

Guest: Dr Adrian Goldsworthy (historian and author, whose most recent work of fiction is titled 'The Fort').

From Emperors of Rome at 2021-12-16 03:17:44

Episode CLXXIX - Q and A VII (211216-qanda7.mp3)

For the seventh time, listeners provide questions and Rhiannon and Matt answer! In this episode: - What happened to the original sources - Did the Romans have dogs, and how did they use them? - What types of jobs did the Romans have that don’t exist today? - Did far-flung provinces retain their own languages? - What kind of libraries did the Romans have? - Did Emperors support the arts? - Have we rethought Domitian?

Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Head of School of Languages and Linguistics, La Trobe University)

From Emperors of Rome at 2021-12-07 05:52:02

Episode CLXXVIII - Witches in Roman Literature (211207-witches-lit.mp3)

Romans had the reality of witches, those who made the brews and prepared the curses, but also the witches of fiction. In their poems and stories, a witch took on a horrific persona, one that skews much more closely to the modern idea of a witch.

Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Head of Department of Languages and Linguistics, La Trobe University)

From Emperors of Rome at 2021-11-15 10:44:34

Epsiode CLXXVII – Witches in the Roman World (211115-witches.mp3)

A witch occupied a strange niche in the Roman world. Distrusted but respected, persecuted but employed by the most elite, a witch in Rome existed on the sidelines and spoken of in hushed terms, and to many of the powerful, a weapon that could be employed.

Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Head of Department of Languages and Linguistics, La Trobe University)

From Emperors of Rome at 2021-10-31 12:38:48

Episode CLXXVI – The Apology of Apuleius (211031-apuleius.mp3)

When Apuleius married his friend’s mother, little did he realise that it would lead to a charge of sorcery, with a raft of seemingly innocent actions from buying a mirror to writing bad poetry bought up in front of the courts to prove his wicked intentions.

Unfortunately for his accusers, Apuleius was a skilled orator, educated in the art of philosophy and highly skilled at slandering his enemies.

Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Head of Department of Languages and Linguistics, La Trobe University)

From Emperors of Rome at 2021-10-09 09:28:27

Episode CLXXV - The Murder of Pedanius Secundus (211009-pedanius-secundus.mp3)

When Pedanius Secunus was murdered by his slave the law was precise - every slave in his household, every man, woman and child, would be crucified as punishment.

The law that allowed this was the Senatus Consultum Silanianum, It existed to ease the minds of the wealthy slave owners of Rome, allowing them to live in power amongst slaves who knew that their actions would mean that all are punished.

Guest: Assistant Professor Zachary Herz (Legal Historian, Department of Classics, University of Colorado Boulder)

From Emperors of Rome at 2021-09-22 03:50:48

Episode CLXXIV - Boudicca (210922-boudicca.mp3)

In 60CE Rome came close to losing the province of Britannia in an uprising led by the warrior queen Boudicca, who united the tribes in the area, destroyed several Roman settlements and defeated part of a Roman legion.

She has become an icon of British resistance, highlighting the difficulty Rome had in controlling the distant provinces.

Part III of ‘Enemies of Rome’

Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Head of Department of Languages and Linguistics, La Trobe University)

When in Rome series 6 is now crowdfunding on kickstarter.

From Emperors of Rome at 2021-09-10 15:10:20

Episode CLXXIII - Arminius (210911-arminius.mp3)

There were few enemies of the Romans who had as much success as Arminius. One of the Germani who fought at their side, he was able to unite the disparate tribes, lure three Roman legions into a trap, and defeat them at the battle of Teutoburg Forest. His success and later resistance would leave the area largely free of Roman influence.

Part II of ‘Enemies of Rome’

Guest: Dr Emma Southon (Historian and author of 'A Fatal Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum').

From Emperors of Rome at 2021-08-26 13:00:08

Episode CLXXII - Vercingetorix (210826-vercingetorix.mp3)

Vercingetorix was a Gallic leader who managed to unite the local tribes and mount a credible defence against Caesar during his campaign in Gaul. While his resistance was ultimately futile, he has become a symbol of French nationalism and a much needed foe to Caesar’s Gallic war commentaries.

Part I of ‘Enemies of Rome’

Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Head of Department of Languages and Linguistics, La Trobe University)

From Emperors of Rome at 2021-08-10 02:28:40

Episode CLXXI - Roman Magic (210810-roman-magic.mp3)

Magic was an essential part of the Roman world. You could use it in love, revenge, profit, life and death. All levels of Roman society made use of it, and it was an integral part of the understanding of both religion and medicine.

Guest: Professor Daniel Ogden (Classics and Ancient History at the University of Exeter)

From Emperors of Rome at 2021-07-29 08:07:41

Episode CLXX - Roman Luxury and Wealth (210729-roman-luxury.mp3)

If archaeological digs are anything to go by, Rome was a society of fantastic luxury. Impressive buildings, exotic foods, obedient slaves, and more marble than you could shake a toga at. But when you read ancient sources, there were those who felt uncomfortable with the opulence, and perhaps it was making the Roman’s soft.

Guest:

Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Head of Department of Languages and Linguistics, La Trobe University)

From Emperors of Rome at 2021-07-23 07:01:45

Episode CLXIX - Gallus (210723-gallus.mp3)

When Decius died during a battle with the Goths, the Roman army took it upon themselves to appoint his successor - his remaining general Trebonianus Gallus. Gallus was praised for not beginning a civil war - unusual for the time - but would be unable to lead the empire through the turmoil.

Guest:

Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Senior Lecturer, Roman History, Macquarie University/Humboldt Research Fellow, Goethe University, Frankfurt)

From Emperors of Rome at 2021-06-25 14:02:49

Episode CLXVIII - The Gothic Invasion (Decius III) (210625-decius03.mp3)

The Goths are leaving Roman territory, and while they successfully sacked some cities there has been no lasting damage to the provinces - but the same can’t be said for the reputation of the Emperor, Decius. He rides with his troops to confront them in battle, becoming the first Roman emperor to die at the hands of a foreign enemy.

Guest:

Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Senior Lecturer, Roman History, Macquarie University/Humboldt Research Fellow, Goethe University, Frankfurt)

From Emperors of Rome at 2021-06-09 12:36:09

Episode CLXVII - The Gothic Invasion (Decius II) (210609-decius02.mp3)

This is the era of Roman history where the Goths from the north begin to pose a serious threat to the stability of the faltering Roman empire. When they begin to lay siege to Roman cities Decius rides to confront them, not realising the challenging battles that await him.

Guest:
Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Senior Lecturer, Roman History, Macquarie University/Humboldt Research Fellow, Goethe University, Frankfurt)

From Emperors of Rome at 2021-05-28 06:49:04

Episode CLXVI - The Edict of Sacrifice (Decius I) (210528-decius01.mp3)

During the early days of his reign, Emperor Decius issued an edict commanding that all Romans should make a sacrifice for the good of the empire. While some happily went along with it, for others it went against what they believed in, and not everyone living within the borders of Rome were happy with the Emperor's wishes.

Guest:
Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Senior Lecturer, Roman History, Macquarie University/Humboldt Research Fellow, Goethe University, Frankfurt)

From Emperors of Rome at 2021-05-14 07:02:59

Episode CLXV - Phillip (210514-phillip.mp3)

When Phillip became Emperor in 244CE, Rome was cracking at the edges. Enemies were at the border, the economy was straining, and the Emperor was an easy target for a disgruntled military. Who wants to rule Rome at this time?

Guest:
Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Senior Lecturer, Roman History, Macquarie University/Humboldt Research Fellow, Goethe University, Frankfurt)

From Emperors of Rome at 2021-05-05 08:59:03

Episode CLXIV - Gordian III (210505-gordian3.mp3)

When the dust settled on a six month civil war in 238CE, only the 13 year old Gordian III is left standing to take the purple. Once again Rome is left with a teenage emperor.

Guest:
Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Senior Lecturer, Roman History, Macquarie University/Humboldt Research Fellow, Goethe University, Frankfurt)

From Emperors of Rome at 2021-04-22 09:16:20

Episode CLXIII - Foundations of Rome (210422-foundations.mp3)

Rome dates its beginning to the 21st April 753BCE, when legend has it that it was founded by the twins Romulus and Remus. While not the only myth connected to this event, it has been the most enduring, and commemorating it became an important event in the Roman calendar.

Guest:
Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Head of Department of Languages and Linguistics, La Trobe University)

From Emperors of Rome at 2021-03-31 07:10:02

Episode CLXII - Anthology of Interest III (210331-anthology3.mp3)

Rhiannon Evans, Caillan Davenport, Gillian Shepherd and Matt Smith each share three items of Roman interest for three minutes! You will hear:

- Silius Italicus and his unbearable bunion
- Pomponius Mela and the wonders of the Nile
- Snarky soldiers at the Vindolanda fort
- Legacy hunters and the jewels of Matidia
- Unusual dedications to the gods
- Early sources for the great fire of Rome
- The effectiveness of Roman concrete
- How Rome dealt with mass burial of the poor
- Sea monsters
- Curse tablets and sporting fanatics
- Vedius Pollio throws a clumsy slave to the lamprey
- The rare instances of Romans sacrificing people

Guests:
Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Head of Department of Languages and Linguistics, La Trobe University)
Assoc. Professor Caillan Davenport (Senior Lecturer, Roman History, Macquarie University/Humboldt Research Fellow, Goethe University, Frankfurt)
Dr Gillian Shepherd (Director, Trendall Centre, La Trobe University)

From Emperors of Rome at 2021-03-19 10:47:44

Episode CLXI - Syrian Matriarchy (210319-syrian-matriarchy.mp3)

The Severan dynasty was founded in 193CE by Septimius Severus, but in many ways it was his wife Julia Domna and her sister Julia Maesa who would guide the family, both powerful augustae and instrumental in securing their family’s imperial position.

Part X of 'Empresses of Rome'

Guest:
Dr Emma Southon (Historian and author of 'A Fatal Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum').

From Emperors of Rome at 2021-03-11 05:03:44

Episode CLX - Faustina (210311-faustina.mp3)

As the daughter of the previous Emperor, Faustina provided her husband, Marcus Aurelius, with a solid link to the imperial throne. Besides continuity she came to embody motherhood, not just to the next Emperor, but to the empire as a whole.

Part IX of 'Empresses of Rome'

Guest:

Assoc. Professor Caillan Davenport (Senior Lecturer, Roman History, Macquarie University/Humboldt Research Fellow, Goethe University, Frankfurt)

From Emperors of Rome at 2021-02-19 05:28:12

Episode CLIX - Sabina (210219-sabina.mp3)

Sabina bought some much needed legitimacy to the rule of Hadrian. As a grand-niece of Trajan she was an important dynastic link to the previous emperor, and in death Hadrian could deify her, and be the husband to a god.

Part VIII of 'Empresses of Rome'

Guest:

Professor T. Corey Brennan (Classics, Rutgers University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2021-02-09 03:52:50

Episode CLVIII – Plotina (210209-plotina.mp3)

When Trajan came to the big city he bought his provincial wife with him. Plotina stood on the steps of Domitian’s palace and promised the people of Rome that she’d keep it real. And from what we can tell from our ancient sources, that’s exactly what she did.

Part VII of 'Empresses of Rome'

Guest:

Professor T. Corey Brennan (Classics, Rutgers University).

From Emperors of Rome at 2021-02-02 03:21:52

Episode CLVII – Domitia (210202-domitia.mp3)

Domitia was princess of the Julio-Claudians who caught the attention of a young Domitian. As Augusta she kept a low profile, and managed to survive and thrive across three imperial dynasties.

Part VI of 'Empresses of Rome'

Guest:

Dr Trudie Fraser (Honorary Fellow, School of Historical and Philosophical Studies, University of Melbourne).

From Emperors of Rome at 2021-01-12 01:10:03

Episode CLVI – Agrippina, Mother of Nero (210112-agrippina2.mp3)

As the wife to the Emperor and daughter of Germanicus, Agrippina had grown accustomed to being a voice of influence in Rome. When her son Nero takes the title this changes, and she struggles to have her voice heard.

Part V of 'Empresses of Rome'

Guest:
Dr Emma Southon (Historian and author of Agrippina: Empress, Exile, Hustler, Whore).

From Emperors of Rome at 2020-12-13 23:46:51

Episode CLV – Agrippina, Wife of Claudius (201214-agrippina1.mp3)

In many ways Agrippina can be associated with the worst qualities of Livia – a scheming, deceiving and manipulating. But in her marriage to Claudius you can see a different side of her: an ambitious, capable Empress who made Claudius look good.

Part IV of 'Empresses of Rome'

Guest:
Dr Emma Southon (Historian and author of Agrippina: Empress, Exile, Hustler, Whore).

From Emperors of Rome at 2020-12-09 10:32:40

Episode CLIV – Messalina (201209-messalina.mp3)

Messalina, third wife of Claudius, is likely one of the Roman Empresses with the worst reputation. The historians accuse her of adultery and prostitution, avarice and greed, and her name becomes synonymous with a woman of loose morals and licentiousness.

Part III of 'Empresses of Rome'

Guests:
Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Head of Department of Languages and Linguistics, La Trobe University)

From Emperors of Rome at 2020-11-24 10:45:11

Episode CLIII - Livia (with Sian Phillips) (201124-livia-redux.mp3)

Livia is often known by association - the wife of Augustus and the mother of Tiberius - but she becomes a figure of power and influence in Rome in her own right.

This episode is a redux of Episode XXV (from 2016), followed by an all new interview with Sian Phillips who played Livia in The BBC’s ‘I Claudius’ in 1976.

Part II of 'Empresses of Rome'

Guests:
Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Head of Department of Languages and Linguistics, La Trobe University)
Sian Phillips (Livia in ‘I, Claudius’)

From Emperors of Rome at 2020-10-29 07:17:31

Episode CLII - The Roman Empress (201029-empress.mp3)

A Roman Empress could often be one of the influential individuals in Rome. Always close to the seat of power, they have been recorded as dutiful, scheming, seductive and conniving - as interesting individuals as the Emperors themselves.

Part I of 'Empresses of Rome'

Guests:
Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Head of Department of Languages and Linguistics, La Trobe University)

From Emperors of Rome at 2020-10-13 04:38:15

Episode CLI - Ovid's Fasti (201013-ovid-fasti.mp3)

The Fasti is a poem about the Roman calendar, written by the poet Ovid during the reign of the Emperor Augustus. Writing the poem gave Ovid the chance to think about contemporary Rome through the medium of some of the best known Roman stories, like the City's foundation by Romulus and Remus, and the creation of the republic by Brutus.

This is the first episode of a miniseries now funding on kickstarter. Back it now to receive an additional six episodes.

Guests:
Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Head of School of Languages and Linguistics, La Trobe University)
Dr Peter Davis (Visiting Research Fellow in Classics, University of Adelaide)

From Emperors of Rome at 2020-10-01 09:13:29

Episode CL - Q and A VI (Live) (201001-qanda6.mp3)

For the sixth time, listeners provide questions and Rhiannon and Matt answer!
In this episode:
- Which Roman Emperor would our guests like to interview?
- Did Romans have pets?
- How did Romans organise construction?
- How did we decided when the Roman Empire ‘ended’?
- Are the ancient sources reliable?
- Did women and men in Rome share bath houses?
- Favourite Cicero self-aggrandisement?

Guest:
Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Head of School of Languages and Linguistics, La Trobe University)
Dr Caillan Davenport (Senior Lecturer, Roman History, Macquarie University/Humboldt Research Fellow, Goethe University, Frankfurt)
Virginia Trioli (ABC Journalist and Newsreader)

From Emperors of Rome at 2020-09-17 09:29:16

Episode CXLIX - Herodian (200917-herodian.mp3)

Herodian was a Roman historian living and writing during the reign of the Severan dynasty. He is a valuable record of events for some of the most turbulent days of Roman history, and while at times lacking details, he knows what he’s doing with an exciting narrative.

Guest:
Dr Caillan Davenport (Senior Lecturer, Roman History, Macquarie University/Humboldt Research Fellow, Goethe University, Frankfurt)

From Emperors of Rome at 2020-09-04 09:51:14

Episode CXLVIII - The Always Unpredictable Outcome of War (200904-238ce.mp3)

During the civil war of 238CE no less than six Emperors were vying for the purple. When the dust finally settled on the child Gordian III remained in power, not because he was the best person for the job, but because he was the most convenient.

Guest:
Dr Caillan Davenport (Senior Lecturer, Roman History, Macquarie University/Humboldt Research Fellow, Goethe University, Frankfurt)

From Emperors of Rome at 2020-08-21 08:17:53

Episode CXLVII - The Vagaries of Chance (200821-gordian.mp3)

Maximinus Thrax was an unorthodox Emperor, a man of lowborn status who kept to the frontlines with the military. It was only a matter of time before the Senate threw in with someone more on their level, but their choice, Gordian, would have the shortest rule of any Emperor.

Guest:
Dr Caillan Davenport (Senior Lecturer, Roman History, Macquarie University/Humboldt Research Fellow, Goethe University, Frankfurt)

From Emperors of Rome at 2020-08-07 04:49:31

Episode CXLVI - The Sun is Getting Real Low (Maximinus) (200807-maximinus.mp3)

The Roman Empire was unprepared for the rule of the Emperor Maximinus. Regarded by many as a savage barbarian, he came to the purple by blood, would rule by blood, and would leave it the same way.

Guest:
Dr Caillan Davenport (Senior Lecturer, Roman History, Macquarie University/Humboldt Research Fellow, Goethe University, Frankfurt)

From Emperors of Rome at 2020-07-24 10:42:23

Episode CXLV - Battle of the Teutoburg Forest (200724-teutoburg-forest.mp3)

In 9CE three Roman legions were walking through Germany when they were ambushed in what would become one of the most notorious defeats throughout Rome’s history. The loss of the legions were a crippling blow to Rome’s plans of expansion, and redrew the borders in the province.

Guest:
Barry Strauss (Bryce and Edith M. Bowmar Professor in Humanistic Studies at Cornell University, author of Ten Caesars: Roman Emperors From Augustus to Constantine).

From Emperors of Rome at 2020-07-13 07:15:00

Episode CXLIV - Ulpian (200713-ulpian.mp3)

Ulpian was a Roman jurist, who became quite influential during the rule of the Severan Dynasty. He was considered one of the great legal authorities of his time, and his writings and thoughts formed the basis of the Western Roman Empire.

Guest:
Dr Zachary Herz (Assistant Professor, Classics, University of Colorado Boulder)

From Emperors of Rome at 2020-06-23 10:17:05

Episode CXLIII - Damnatio Memoriae (200623-damnatio-memoriae.mp3)

If an emperor has been disappointing, cruel, tyrannical, or just related to the wrong person he is at risk of being damned, erased, have his likenesses destroyed and his name stricken from the records. The process of danmatio memoraie was intended to be a permanent judgement, and the final vengeance of an angry Rome.

Guest:
Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

From Emperors of Rome at 2020-06-04 09:00:28

Episode CXLII - Deification (200604-deification.mp3)

When an emperor passed away it gave the Roman empire a chance to reflect on his reign. If he wasn’t terrible and the circumstances allowed it, he would be deified and worshiped as a god throughout the empire.

Guest:
Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

From Emperors of Rome at 2020-05-23 04:49:58

Podcast Announcement - Raising Standards (200523-raising-notice.mp3)

Rhiannon Evans and Matt Smith have started Raising Standards, An occasional rewatch podcast of HBO’s Rome. Available now from all good podcatching services.

From Emperors of Rome at 2020-05-06 04:43:24

Episode CXLI - Translating Suetonius (200506-translating-suetonius.mp3)

The last Penguin edition of The Twelve Caesars by Suetonius was translated by Robert Graves in 1957. Historian Tom Holland is now working on a new translation, and took time away from the manuscript to talk to me about his process.

Guest:
Tom Holland (author of Rubicon, Dynasty, and an upcoming translation of Suetonius' 'The Twelve Caesars')

From Emperors of Rome at 2020-04-22 06:36:43

Episode CXL - A Ridiculous Waste of Time (Severus Alexander IV) (200422-alexander04.mp3)

Severus Alexander comes from a strong military dynasty with a string of victories against Rome’s enemies, and it’s fair to say the Roman army was less than impressed with his performance against Sassanian and Germanic tribes. The empire needs a leader! Should they turn to a fighter, or to a weakling and his mother?

Guest:
Dr Caillan Davenport (Senior Lecturer, Roman History, Macquarie University/Humboldt Research Fellow, Goethe University, Frankfurt)

From Emperors of Rome at 2020-04-08 05:51:40

Episode CXXXIX - A Fish in a Net (Severus Alexander III) (200408-alexander03.mp3)

When Severus Alexander leads the Roman armies east, he meets Artaxerxes and the Sasanians in battle but his tactics are unprepared. Artaxerxes attacked unexpectedly with his entire force and trapped the Romans like fish in a net; firing their arrows from all sides at the encircled soldiers, the Persians massacred the whole army.

Guest:
Dr Caillan Davenport (Senior Lecturer, Roman History, Macquarie University/Humboldt Research Fellow, Goethe University, Frankfurt)

From Emperors of Rome at 2020-03-24 12:38:08

Episode CXXXVIII - Rise of the Sasanian Empire (Severus Alexander II) (200324-alexander02.mp3)

Severus Alexander was an emperor who spent much of his reign at war, but he was ill-suited to it and would likely have preferred to be elsewhere. His main enemy was the Sasanians, an empire that rose out of the ashes of the Parthians, and would be a leading regional power for the next 400 years.

Guest:
Dr Caillan Davenport (Senior Lecturer, Roman History, Macquarie University/Humboldt Research Fellow, Goethe University, Frankfurt)

From Emperors of Rome at 2020-03-12 02:19:32

Episode CXXXVII - Mother Knows Best (Severus Alexander I) (200312-alexander01.mp3)

Severus Alexander was a young boy when he came to power in Rome in 222CE, in the wake of the death of his unpopular cousin, Elagabalus. He would reign for 13 years but struggle to assert authority, bringing the once proud Severan dynasty to a chaotic ending.

Guest:
Dr Caillan Davenport (Senior Lecturer, Roman History, Macquarie University/Humboldt Research Fellow, Goethe University, Frankfurt)

From Emperors of Rome at 2020-02-26 02:50:43

Episode CXXXVI - Spartacus (1960) (200226-spatacus.mp3)

Spartacus is an epic historical film based on the life of a Roman gladiator who led a slave rebellion against Rome in the 1st C BCE. In this episode we’ll take a fond look at this cinematic classic, in memory of its leading man, Kirk Douglas.

Guest:
Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

From Emperors of Rome at 2020-02-11 03:49:39

Episode CXXXV - Lupercalia (200211-lupercalia.mp3)

Lupercalia was a Roman festival which took place in the middle of February, and had the effects of purifying and cleansing the city. Participants would take part in a blood sacrifice, strip off their togas, and run naked through the streets of Rome.

Guest:
Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

From Emperors of Rome at 2020-01-29 05:50:31

Episode CXXXIV - Roman Health and Medicine (200129-health-medicine.mp3)

The Romans had some strange ideas when it came to medical practice, but you have to give them some leeway, and a lot has changed in 2000 years. Some of the thoughts and techniques showed forward thinking, but you might have to ignore the cabbages.

Guest:
Dr Leanne McNamara (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

From Emperors of Rome at 2020-01-13 23:15:00

Episode CXXXIII - Anthology of Interest II (200114-anthology02.mp3)

Rhiannon Evans, Caillan Davenport and Matt Smith each share three Roman topics of interest for three minutes! You will hear:
- Scaurus and the marble columns
- The 206 fragments of the Portland Vase
- The paranoia of Emperor Claudius
- The Roman perception of Ireland (featuring exploding sheep)
- The vanity of the Alexander the Sophist
- An early example of chemical warfare
- Living it rough with Seneca
- Goldflake and Innocence
- The nazi fascination with Tacitus' Germania

Guest:
Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University)
Dr Caillan Davenport (Senior Lecturer, Roman History, Macquarie University/Humboldt Research Fellow, Goethe University, Frankfurt)

From Emperors of Rome at 2019-12-18 23:15:29

Episode CXXXII - Q and A V (191219-qandav.mp3)

For the fifth time, listeners provide questions and Rhiannon and Matt answer!
In this episode:
- How the orders of Roman society worked
- The materials Romans used in clothing
- How Romans marked years by Consul
- Augustus adopting his wife, Livia
- The truth about the Cantabrian warrior Cococotta
- How to actually pronounce ‘Pompey’
- Is the Roman salute accurate?
- How much of Latin is Greek?
- How did the Romans say their own numbers?
- How did the relationship change between Patricians and Plebs?
- Which Roman figure do we wish we knew more about?

Guest:
Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

From Emperors of Rome at 2019-11-27 06:13:12

Episode CXXXI - Champions of the People (Gracchi IV) (191127-gracchi04.mp3)

Gaius Gracchus - awe-inspiring and passionate to exaggeration, a demagogue pure and simple, seemingly shunned the family business, at least to begin with. But however much you may try to defer your fate, sometimes decisions are made for you.

Guest:
Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

From Emperors of Rome at 2019-11-06 07:19:36

Episode CXXX - Unpopular Reforms (Gracchi III) (191106-gracchi03.mp3)

Tiberius Gracchus had introduced property laws that, while unpopular with the ruling elite, went down well with the people of Rome. You can please some of the people all of the time and all of the people some of the time. But that’s just politics, isn’t it? Nothing to lose your head over.

Guest:
Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

From Emperors of Rome at 2019-10-22 06:25:49

Episode CXXIX - Tiberius Gracchus and the Landless Masses (Gracchi II) (191022-gracchi02.mp3)

Any system of government that has been around for long enough is going to develop its problems, and that is definitely the case with the Roman republic. There was inequality between the ruling class and the common people, and if young Tiberius Gracchus decides to take up the cause, what’s the worst that could happen?

Guest:
Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

From Emperors of Rome at 2019-10-08 07:24:27

Episode CXXVIII - Cornelia, Mother of the Gracchi (Gracchi I) (191008-gracchi01.mp3)

What we do know about Cornelia is mostly through the lens of her famous sons, but to the Romans she was much more than that. She was put on a pedestal, in bronze, no less, as the ideal mother for Romans to aspire to, and may have been quite influential in politics at the time.

Guest:
Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

From Emperors of Rome at 2019-09-25 06:45:10

Episode CXXVII - Augustus: The Making of an Emperor (Live in Melbourne) (190925-augustus-live.mp3)

Octavian was barely an adult when he arrived in Rome in 44BCE. Two months had passed since his adopted father, Julius Caesar, was murdered by members of the senate who resented his control as dictator. Octavian stood to inherit Caesar’s fortunes, but few could have imagined that he would inherit Caesar’s power.

He would become emperor in 27BCE, reigning as the Augustus and transforming the republic of Rome into an autocratic principate. Under his leadership of forty years Rome would grow in territory, reputation, economy and culture, and change from a city of sun-dried bricks and leave it clothed in marble. How did the young Octavian transform himself into Rome's first emperor?

Sponsored by the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, La Trobe University. Held at the Wheeler Centre in Melbourne on 23 September, 2019.

Guest:
Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

From Emperors of Rome at 2019-09-11 10:38:36

Episode CXXVI - Vestal Virgins (190911-vestal-virgins.mp3)

The Vestals were an order of priestesses who were sacred to Rome, and were respected and referred as symbols of a safe and stable empire. They had the all-important duty of maintaining the sacred flame, and if it were extinguished, it would be a sign of impending disaster.

Guest:
Dr Peta Greenfield (Public Historian, co-host of 'The Partial Historians' podcast)

From Emperors of Rome at 2019-08-28 07:36:27

Episode CXXV - Call Me Not a Lord, for I Am a Lady (Elagabalus III) (190828-elagabalus03.mp3)

Elagabalus has long been remembered as deviant and sexually depraved. His behaviour was shocking for a Roman citizen, let alone the leader of the empire, and Rome was relieved to see the end of him.

Guest:
Dr Caillan Davenport (Senior Lecturer, Roman History, Macquarie University/Humboldt Research Fellow, Goethe University, Frankfurt)

From Emperors of Rome at 2019-08-12 06:45:55

Episode CXXIV – The Lowest Depths of Foulness (Elagabalus II) (190812-elagabalus02.mp3)

When Elagabalus finally reached Rome, the city seemed to hold its breath. The young Emperor embraced both the roles of ruler and high priest of a foreign religion, and there were many that questioned where his priorities lie.

Guest:
Dr Caillan Davenport (Senior Lecturer, Roman History, Macquarie University/Humboldt Research Fellow, Goethe University, Frankfurt)