In Our Time
BBC Radio 4
Spanning history, religion, culture, science and philosophy, In Our Time from BBC Radio 4 is essential listening for the intellectually curious. In each episode, host Misha Glenny and expert guests explore the characters, events and discoveries that have shaped our world.
History fans can learn about pivotal wars and societal upheavals, such as the rise and fall of Napoleon, the Sack of Rome in 1527, and the political intrigue of the Russian Revolution. Those fascinated by the lives of kings and queens can journey to Versailles to meet Marie Antoinette and Louis XIV the Sun King, or to Ancient Egypt to meet Cleopatra and Nefertiti. Or perhaps you're looking to explore the history of religion, from Buddhism's early teachings to the Protestant Reformation.
If you're interested in the stories behind iconic works of art, music and literature, dive in to discussions on the artistic genius of Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel and Van Gogh's famous Sunflowers. From Gothic architecture to the works of Shakespeare, each episode of In Our Time offers new insight into humanity's cultural achievements.
Those looking to enrich their scientific knowledge can hear episodes on black holes, the Periodic Table, and classical theories of gravity, motion, evolution and relativity. Learn how the discovery of penicillin revolutionised medicine, and how the death of stars can lead to the formation of new planets.
Lovers of philosophy will find episodes on the big issues that define existence, from free will and ethics, to liberty and justice. In what ways did celebrated philosophers such as Mary Wollstonecraft and Karl Marx push forward radical new ideas? How has the concept of karma evolved from the ancient Sanskrit texts of Hinduism to today? What was Plato's concept of an ideal republic, and how did he explore this through the legend of the lost city of Atlantis?
In Our Time celebrates the pursuit of knowledge and the enduring power of ideas.
History fans can learn about pivotal wars and societal upheavals, such as the rise and fall of Napoleon, the Sack of Rome in 1527, and the political intrigue of the Russian Revolution. Those fascinated by the lives of kings and queens can journey to Versailles to meet Marie Antoinette and Louis XIV the Sun King, or to Ancient Egypt to meet Cleopatra and Nefertiti. Or perhaps you're looking to explore the history of religion, from Buddhism's early teachings to the Protestant Reformation.
If you're interested in the stories behind iconic works of art, music and literature, dive in to discussions on the artistic genius of Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel and Van Gogh's famous Sunflowers. From Gothic architecture to the works of Shakespeare, each episode of In Our Time offers new insight into humanity's cultural achievements.
Those looking to enrich their scientific knowledge can hear episodes on black holes, the Periodic Table, and classical theories of gravity, motion, evolution and relativity. Learn how the discovery of penicillin revolutionised medicine, and how the death of stars can lead to the formation of new planets.
Lovers of philosophy will find episodes on the big issues that define existence, from free will and ethics, to liberty and justice. In what ways did celebrated philosophers such as Mary Wollstonecraft and Karl Marx push forward radical new ideas? How has the concept of karma evolved from the ancient Sanskrit texts of Hinduism to today? What was Plato's concept of an ideal republic, and how did he explore this through the legend of the lost city of Atlantis?
In Our Time celebrates the pursuit of knowledge and the enduring power of ideas.
Episodes
Mentioned books
16 snips
Jan 19, 2023 • 51min
Persuasion
Karen O'Brien, Vice-Chancellor of Durham University, explores Jane Austen's life and her last novel, 'Persuasion.' Fiona Stafford from Oxford highlights themes of love and regret through Anne Elliot’s journey. Paddy Bullard discusses the novel's critique of social status and its literary context. The conversation delves into Anne's emotional evolution, societal pressures, and the experimental storytelling techniques Austen employed. Listeners gain insights into how Austen's health and personal experiences influenced her writing, rendering 'Persuasion' a profound exploration of human relationships.
22 snips
Jan 12, 2023 • 54min
Citizen Kane
Stella Bruzzi, a film studies expert, Ian Christie, a historian of media, and John David Rhodes, a visual culture analyst, dive into the cinematic masterpiece, Citizen Kane. They discuss Welles' innovative techniques that redefined filmmaking and the film’s ties to media mogul William Randolph Hearst. The symbolism of 'rosebud' as a representation of lost childhood is explored, alongside Kane's complex emotional journey of loneliness and megalomania. The trio also examines the struggles of Kane's second wife, Susan, highlighting themes of authenticity versus societal expectations.
7 snips
Jan 5, 2023 • 55min
The Irish Rebellion of 1798
Ian McBride is the Foster Professor of Irish History at Oxford, while Catriona Kennedy and Liam Chambers teach Modern History and serve as heads of history departments at their respective universities. They discuss the spark behind the 1798 Irish Rebellion, fueled by the United Irishmen's desire for liberty, and the complex sectarian tensions at play. Betrayal by British spies contributed to its suppression. The legacy shaped future Irish nationalism, while the tragic fate of figures like Wolfe Tone adds a personal touch to this tumultuous history.
18 snips
Dec 29, 2022 • 55min
The Nibelungenlied
In this gripping discussion, Sarah Bowden, a Reader in German and Medieval Studies, unveils the dark allure of the Nibelungenlied. Mark Chinca, Professor at Cambridge, contextualizes its historical roots, while Bettina Bildhauer from St Andrews dives into its complex themes and narrative structures. They explore female power dynamics, the process of vengeance, and the epic's evolution through ages and adaptations. The conversation highlights the text's haunting legacy, fraught morality, and its intricate portrayal of heroism and gender roles.
17 snips
Dec 22, 2022 • 51min
The Challenger Expedition 1872-1876
Join Sam Robinson, a marine research fellow, Giles Miller, a micropalaeontology expert, and Erica Jones, a curator of navigation, as they dive into the groundbreaking Challenger Expedition of 1872-1876. They discuss the astonishing discoveries of new marine species and the first evidence of life in the ocean's depths. The conversation highlights the logistical challenges faced by the crew and the influence of telegraphy in sharing their findings. This voyage is revealed to be as revolutionary as the Apollo missions, laying the groundwork for modern oceanography.
37 snips
Dec 15, 2022 • 57min
Demosthenes' Philippics
Join esteemed guests Paul Cartledge, a leading expert on ancient Greek history, Kathryn Tempest, a scholar in Roman literature and history, and Jon Hesk, a specialist in Greek studies, as they unpack the electrifying speeches of Demosthenes against Philip II of Macedon. They delve into Demosthenes' rise as a master orator, his passionate calls for military action, and the historical context of Athenian democracy. The discussion also touches on his legacy and how his rhetoric has influenced political discourse throughout history.
16 snips
Dec 8, 2022 • 57min
Bauhaus
Join experts Robin Schuldenfrei, Alan Powers, and Michael White as they unpack the revolutionary Bauhaus movement. Schuldenfrei highlights its origins as a school merging art and craft, while Powers delves into its architectural innovations. White provides historical insights into the school's impact and its eventual closure under Nazi pressure. Discover how Bauhaus ideas influenced design across the globe, the role of women in its workshops, and its legacy in modern architecture and art. An engaging exploration of creativity and community!
Dec 1, 2022 • 54min
The Morant Bay Rebellion
Matthew J Smith, Professor of History, leads a captivating discussion on the Morant Bay Rebellion, highlighting its roots in post-emancipation Jamaica and the desperate socio-economic conditions that fueled the protest led by Paul Bogle. Diana Paton dives into the political dynamics post-slavery, emphasizing the community's push for rights. Lawrence Goldman analyzes Britain's divisive reactions, with some supporting violent suppression while others condemned the governor's actions. This conversation uncovers the complexities of colonial power and the fight for justice in Jamaica.
4 snips
Nov 24, 2022 • 57min
Wilfred Owen
Jane Potter, a Reader at Oxford Brookes University, joins Fran Brearton, a Professor of Modern Poetry, and Guy Cuthbertson, a Professor of British Literature, to explore the profound life and poetry of Wilfred Owen. They dive into Owen’s duality as a soldier and poet, examining his complex experiences during World War I. The discussion highlights themes of irony in his work, particularly in 'Dulce et Decorum Est’, and the transformative impact of his letters. Their insights reveal Owen's rich emotional landscape and enduring legacy as a voice against the horrors of war.
5 snips
Nov 17, 2022 • 56min
The Fish-Tetrapod Transition
In this fascinating discussion, Emily Rayfield, a Professor of Palaeobiology, and Michael Coates, Chair of Organismal Biology, delve into the evolution from fish to tetrapods. They explore how fish adapted to land around 400 million years ago, transforming fins into limbs and swim bladders into lungs. Significant fossil discoveries like Tiktaalik and Ichthyostega reveal crucial anatomical changes. The conversation highlights modern tools revolutionizing fossil studies and the remarkable journey that laid the foundation for the diversity of life we know today.
