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<rss xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" xmlns:itunes="http://www.itunes.com/dtds/podcast-1.0.dtd" xmlns:ppg="http://bbc.co.uk/2009/01/ppgRss" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" version="2.0"> <channel> <title>In Our Time</title> <link>http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006qykl</link> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the history of ideas</description> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the history of ideas</itunes:summary> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <itunes:owner> <itunes:name>BBC</itunes:name> <itunes:email>RadioMusic.Support@bbc.co.uk</itunes:email> </itunes:owner> <language>en</language> <ppg:seriesDetails frequency="weekly" daysLive="-1" /> <ppg:systemRef systemId="pid.brand" key="b006qykl" />   <ppg:systemRef systemId="pid.genre" key="C00060" />     <ppg:systemRef systemId="pid.format" key="PT004" />    <ppg:network id="radio4" name="BBC Radio 4" />   <image> <url>https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/3000x3000/p03xq2kz.jpg</url> <title>In Our Time</title> <link>http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006qykl</link> </image> <itunes:image href="https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/3000x3000/p03xq2kz.jpg" />  <copyright>(C) BBC 2016</copyright> <pubDate>Thu, 07 Jul 2016 10:26:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:category text="Society &amp; Culture"><itunes:category text="History"/></itunes:category>   <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit> <media:rating scheme="urn:simple">nonadult</media:rating>  <atom:link href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006qykl/episodes/downloads.rss" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />  <item> <title>The Invention of Photography</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the development of photography in the 1830s, when techniques for 'drawing with light' evolved to the stage where, in 1839, both Louis Daguerre and William Henry Fox Talbot made claims for its invention. These followed the development of the camera obscura, and experiments by such as Thomas Wedgwood and Nicéphore Niépce, and led to rapid changes in the 1840s as more people captured images with the daguerreotype and calotype. These new techniques changed the aesthetics of the age and, before long, inspired claims that painting was now dead.

With

Simon Schaffer
Professor of the History of Science at the University of Cambridge

Elizabeth Edwards
Emeritus Professor of Photographic History at De Montfort University

And

Alison Morrison-Low, 
Research Associate at National Museums Scotland


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the invention of photography.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the development of photography in the 1830s, when techniques for 'drawing with light' evolved to the stage where, in 1839, both Louis Daguerre and William Henry Fox Talbot made claims for its invention. These followed the development of the camera obscura, and experiments by such as Thomas Wedgwood and Nicéphore Niépce, and led to rapid changes in the 1840s as more people captured images with the daguerreotype and calotype. These new techniques changed the aesthetics of the age and, before long, inspired claims that painting was now dead.

With

Simon Schaffer
Professor of the History of Science at the University of Cambridge

Elizabeth Edwards
Emeritus Professor of Photographic History at De Montfort University

And

Alison Morrison-Low, 
Research Associate at National Museums Scotland


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 07 Jul 2016 10:26:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2926</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p040pwd4.mp3" length="34136666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b07j699g</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p040pwd4.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p040pwd4.mp3" fileSize="34136666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2926" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b07j699g</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Sovereignty</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the history of the idea of Sovereignty, the authority of a state to govern itself and the relationship between the sovereign and the people. These ideas of external and internal sovereignty were imagined in various ways in ancient Greece and Rome, and given a name in 16th Century France by the philosopher and jurist Jean Bodin in his Six Books of the Commonwealth, where he said (in an early English translation) 'Maiestie or Soveraigntie is the most high, absolute, and perpetuall power over the citisens and subiects in a Commonweale: which the Latins cal Maiestatem, the Greeks akra exousia, kurion arche, and kurion politeuma; the Italians Segnoria, and the Hebrewes tomech shévet, that is to say, The greatest power to command.' Shakespeare also explored the concept through Richard II and the king's two bodies, Hobbes developed it in the 17th Century, and the idea of popular sovereignty was tested in the Revolutionary era in America and France. 

With 

Melissa Lane
Class of 1943 Professor of Politics at Princeton University

Richard Bourke
Professor in the History of Political Thought at Queen Mary University of London

and 

Tim Stanton
Senior Lecturer in the Department of Politics at the University of York

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the history of the idea of sovereignty.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the history of the idea of Sovereignty, the authority of a state to govern itself and the relationship between the sovereign and the people. These ideas of external and internal sovereignty were imagined in various ways in ancient Greece and Rome, and given a name in 16th Century France by the philosopher and jurist Jean Bodin in his Six Books of the Commonwealth, where he said (in an early English translation) 'Maiestie or Soveraigntie is the most high, absolute, and perpetuall power over the citisens and subiects in a Commonweale: which the Latins cal Maiestatem, the Greeks akra exousia, kurion arche, and kurion politeuma; the Italians Segnoria, and the Hebrewes tomech shévet, that is to say, The greatest power to command.' Shakespeare also explored the concept through Richard II and the king's two bodies, Hobbes developed it in the 17th Century, and the idea of popular sovereignty was tested in the Revolutionary era in America and France. 

With 

Melissa Lane
Class of 1943 Professor of Politics at Princeton University

Richard Bourke
Professor in the History of Political Thought at Queen Mary University of London

and 

Tim Stanton
Senior Lecturer in the Department of Politics at the University of York

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 30 Jun 2016 09:45:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2841</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03zz1wn.mp3" length="33144999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b07hhvxx</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03zz1wn.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03zz1wn.mp3" fileSize="33144999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2841" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b07hhvxx</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Songs of Innocence and of Experience</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss William Blake's collection of illustrated poems &quot;Songs of Innocence and of Experience.&quot; He published Songs of Innocence first in 1789 with five hand-coloured copies and, five years later, with additional Songs of Experience poems and the explanatory phrase &quot;Shewing the Two Contrary States of the Human Soul.&quot; Blake drew on the street ballads and improving children's rhymes of the time, exploring the open and optimistic outlook of early childhood with the darker and more cynical outlook of adult life, in which symbols such as the Lamb belong to innocence and the Tyger to experience.

With

Sir Jonathan Bate
Provost of Worcester College, University of Oxford

Sarah Haggarty
Lecturer at the Faculty of English and Fellow of Queens' College, University of Cambridge

And

Jon Mee
Professor of Eighteenth-Century Studies at the University of York

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss William Blake's Songs of Innocence and of Experience.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss William Blake's collection of illustrated poems &quot;Songs of Innocence and of Experience.&quot; He published Songs of Innocence first in 1789 with five hand-coloured copies and, five years later, with additional Songs of Experience poems and the explanatory phrase &quot;Shewing the Two Contrary States of the Human Soul.&quot; Blake drew on the street ballads and improving children's rhymes of the time, exploring the open and optimistic outlook of early childhood with the darker and more cynical outlook of adult life, in which symbols such as the Lamb belong to innocence and the Tyger to experience.

With

Sir Jonathan Bate
Provost of Worcester College, University of Oxford

Sarah Haggarty
Lecturer at the Faculty of English and Fellow of Queens' College, University of Cambridge

And

Jon Mee
Professor of Eighteenth-Century Studies at the University of York

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 23 Jun 2016 10:20:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2999</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03z6tw8.mp3" length="34988333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b07gh4pg</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03z6tw8.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03z6tw8.mp3" fileSize="34988333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2999" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b07gh4pg</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Bronze Age Collapse</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss The Bronze Age Collapse, the name given by many historians to what appears to have been a sudden, uncontrolled destruction of dominant civilizations around 1200 BC in the Aegean, Eastern Mediterranean and Anatolia. Among other areas, there were great changes in Minoan Crete, Egypt, the Hittite Empire, Mycenaean Greece and Syria. The reasons for the changes, and the extent of those changes, are open to debate and include droughts, rebellions, the breakdown of trade as copper became less desirable, earthquakes, invasions, volcanoes and the mysterious Sea Peoples. 

With 

John Bennet
Director of the British School at Athens and Professor of Aegean Archaeology at the University of Sheffield

Linda Hulin
Fellow of Harris Manchester College and Research Officer at the Oxford Centre for Maritime Archaeology at the University of Oxford

And

Simon Stoddart
Fellow of Magdalene College and Reader in Prehistory at the University of Cambridge 

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Bronze Age collapse.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss The Bronze Age Collapse, the name given by many historians to what appears to have been a sudden, uncontrolled destruction of dominant civilizations around 1200 BC in the Aegean, Eastern Mediterranean and Anatolia. Among other areas, there were great changes in Minoan Crete, Egypt, the Hittite Empire, Mycenaean Greece and Syria. The reasons for the changes, and the extent of those changes, are open to debate and include droughts, rebellions, the breakdown of trade as copper became less desirable, earthquakes, invasions, volcanoes and the mysterious Sea Peoples. 

With 

John Bennet
Director of the British School at Athens and Professor of Aegean Archaeology at the University of Sheffield

Linda Hulin
Fellow of Harris Manchester College and Research Officer at the Oxford Centre for Maritime Archaeology at the University of Oxford

And

Simon Stoddart
Fellow of Magdalene College and Reader in Prehistory at the University of Cambridge 

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 16 Jun 2016 10:25:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2832</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03yhrs7.mp3" length="33040000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b07fl5bh</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03yhrs7.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03yhrs7.mp3" fileSize="33040000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2832" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b07fl5bh</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Penicillin</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss penicillin, discovered by Alexander Fleming in 1928. It is said he noticed some blue-green penicillium mould on an uncovered petri dish at his hospital laboratory, and that this mould had inhibited bacterial growth around it. After further work, Fleming filtered a broth of the mould and called that penicillin, hoping it would be useful as a disinfectant. Howard Florey and Ernst Chain later shared a Nobel Prize in Medicine with Fleming, for their role in developing a way of mass-producing the life-saving drug. Evolutionary theory predicted the risk of resistance from the start and, almost from the beginning of this 'golden age' of antibacterials, scientists have been looking for ways to extend the lifespan of antibiotics.

With

Laura Piddock
Professor of Microbiology at the University of Birmingham

Christoph Tang
Professor of Cellular Pathology and Professorial Fellow at Exeter College at the University of Oxford

And

Steve Jones
Emeritus Professor of Genetics at University College, London

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the discovery of penicillin.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss penicillin, discovered by Alexander Fleming in 1928. It is said he noticed some blue-green penicillium mould on an uncovered petri dish at his hospital laboratory, and that this mould had inhibited bacterial growth around it. After further work, Fleming filtered a broth of the mould and called that penicillin, hoping it would be useful as a disinfectant. Howard Florey and Ernst Chain later shared a Nobel Prize in Medicine with Fleming, for their role in developing a way of mass-producing the life-saving drug. Evolutionary theory predicted the risk of resistance from the start and, almost from the beginning of this 'golden age' of antibacterials, scientists have been looking for ways to extend the lifespan of antibiotics.

With

Laura Piddock
Professor of Microbiology at the University of Birmingham

Christoph Tang
Professor of Cellular Pathology and Professorial Fellow at Exeter College at the University of Oxford

And

Steve Jones
Emeritus Professor of Genetics at University College, London

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 09 Jun 2016 11:02:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2795</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03xs643.mp3" length="32608333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b07dnnkm</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03xs643.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03xs643.mp3" fileSize="32608333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2795" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b07dnnkm</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Margery Kempe and English Mysticism</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the English mystic Margery Kempe (1373-1438) whose extraordinary life is recorded in a book she dictated, The Book of Margery Kempe. She went on pilgrimage to Jerusalem, to Rome and Santiago de Compostela, purchasing indulgences on her way, met with the anchoress Julian of Norwich and is honoured by the Church of England each 9th November. She sometimes doubted the authenticity of her mystical conversations with God, as did the authorities who saw her devotional sobbing, wailing and convulsions as a sign of insanity and dissoluteness. Her Book was lost for centuries, before emerging in a private library in 1934.

The image (above), of an unknown woman, comes from a pew at Margery Kempe's parish church, St Margaret's, Kings Lynn and dates from c1375.

With

Miri Rubin
Professor of Medieval and Early Modern History at Queen Mary, University of London

Katherine Lewis
Senior Lecturer in History at the University of Huddersfield

And

Anthony Bale
Professor of Medieval Studies at Birkbeck University of London


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Margery Kempe, the medieval English mystic.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the English mystic Margery Kempe (1373-1438) whose extraordinary life is recorded in a book she dictated, The Book of Margery Kempe. She went on pilgrimage to Jerusalem, to Rome and Santiago de Compostela, purchasing indulgences on her way, met with the anchoress Julian of Norwich and is honoured by the Church of England each 9th November. She sometimes doubted the authenticity of her mystical conversations with God, as did the authorities who saw her devotional sobbing, wailing and convulsions as a sign of insanity and dissoluteness. Her Book was lost for centuries, before emerging in a private library in 1934.

The image (above), of an unknown woman, comes from a pew at Margery Kempe's parish church, St Margaret's, Kings Lynn and dates from c1375.

With

Miri Rubin
Professor of Medieval and Early Modern History at Queen Mary, University of London

Katherine Lewis
Senior Lecturer in History at the University of Huddersfield

And

Anthony Bale
Professor of Medieval Studies at Birkbeck University of London


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 02 Jun 2016 10:14:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2685</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03x0v9l.mp3" length="31325000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b07cyfkg</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03x0v9l.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03x0v9l.mp3" fileSize="31325000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2685" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b07cyfkg</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Gettysburg Address</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, ten sentences long, delivered at the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery at Gettysburg after the Union forces had won an important battle with the Confederates. Opening with &quot; Four score and seven years ago,&quot; it became one of the most influential statements of national purpose, asserting that America was &quot;conceived in liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal&quot; and &quot;that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom-and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.&quot; Among those inspired were Martin Luther King Jr whose &quot;I have a dream&quot; speech, delivered at the Lincoln Memorial 100 years later, echoed Lincoln's opening words.

With 

Catherine Clinton
Denman Chair of American History at the University of Texas and International Professor at Queen's University, Belfast

Susan-Mary Grant
Professor of American History at Newcastle University

And

Tim Lockley
Professor of American History at the University of Warwick

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, 1863.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, ten sentences long, delivered at the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery at Gettysburg after the Union forces had won an important battle with the Confederates. Opening with &quot; Four score and seven years ago,&quot; it became one of the most influential statements of national purpose, asserting that America was &quot;conceived in liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal&quot; and &quot;that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom-and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.&quot; Among those inspired were Martin Luther King Jr whose &quot;I have a dream&quot; speech, delivered at the Lincoln Memorial 100 years later, echoed Lincoln's opening words.

With 

Catherine Clinton
Denman Chair of American History at the University of Texas and International Professor at Queen's University, Belfast

Susan-Mary Grant
Professor of American History at Newcastle University

And

Tim Lockley
Professor of American History at the University of Warwick

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 26 May 2016 10:16:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2935</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03w9xsq.mp3" length="34241666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b07c2w5j</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03w9xsq.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03w9xsq.mp3" fileSize="34241666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2935" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b07c2w5j</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Muses</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Muses and their role in Greek mythology, when they were goddesses of poetry, song, music and dance: what the Greeks called mousike, 'the art of the Muses' from which we derive our word 'music.' While the number of Muses, their origin and their roles varied in different accounts and at different times, they were consistently linked with the nature of artistic inspiration. This raised a question for philosophers then and since: was a creative person an empty vessel into which the Muses poured their gifts, at their will, or could that person do something to make inspiration flow? 

With

Paul Cartledge
Emeritus Professor of Greek Culture and AG Leventis Senior Research Fellow at Clare College, University of Cambridge

Angie Hobbs
Professor of the Public Understanding of Philosophy, University of Sheffield

And

Penelope Murray
Founder member and retired Senior Lecturer, Department of Classics, University of Warwick


Producer: Simon Tillotson

Image: 'Apollo and the Muses (Parnassus)', 1631-1632. Oil on canvas. Nicolas Poussin (1594-1665).</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Muses in Greek mythology and after.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Muses and their role in Greek mythology, when they were goddesses of poetry, song, music and dance: what the Greeks called mousike, 'the art of the Muses' from which we derive our word 'music.' While the number of Muses, their origin and their roles varied in different accounts and at different times, they were consistently linked with the nature of artistic inspiration. This raised a question for philosophers then and since: was a creative person an empty vessel into which the Muses poured their gifts, at their will, or could that person do something to make inspiration flow? 

With

Paul Cartledge
Emeritus Professor of Greek Culture and AG Leventis Senior Research Fellow at Clare College, University of Cambridge

Angie Hobbs
Professor of the Public Understanding of Philosophy, University of Sheffield

And

Penelope Murray
Founder member and retired Senior Lecturer, Department of Classics, University of Warwick


Producer: Simon Tillotson

Image: 'Apollo and the Muses (Parnassus)', 1631-1632. Oil on canvas. Nicolas Poussin (1594-1665).</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 19 May 2016 10:53:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2729</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03vlr81.mp3" length="31838333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b07bft7v</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03vlr81.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03vlr81.mp3" fileSize="31838333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2729" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b07bft7v</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Titus Oates and his 'Popish Plot'</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Titus Oates (1649-1705) who, with Israel Tonge, spread rumours of a Catholic plot to assassinate Charles II. From 1678, they went to great lengths to support their scheme, forging evidence and identifying the supposed conspirators. Fearing a second Gunpowder Plot, Oates' supposed revelations caused uproar in London and across the British Isles, with many Catholics, particularly Jesuit priests, wrongly implicated by Oates and then executed. Anyone who doubted him had to keep quiet, to avoid being suspected a sympathiser and thrown in prison. Oates was eventually exposed, put on trial under James II and sentenced by Judge Jeffreys to public whipping through the streets of London, but the question remained: why was this rogue, who had faced perjury charges before, ever believed?

With

Clare Jackson
Senior Tutor and Director of Studies in History at Trinity Hall, University of Cambridge

Mark Knights
Professor of History at the University of Warwick

And

Peter Hinds
Associate Professor of English at Plymouth University


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Titus Oates and his fictitious Popish Plot.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Titus Oates (1649-1705) who, with Israel Tonge, spread rumours of a Catholic plot to assassinate Charles II. From 1678, they went to great lengths to support their scheme, forging evidence and identifying the supposed conspirators. Fearing a second Gunpowder Plot, Oates' supposed revelations caused uproar in London and across the British Isles, with many Catholics, particularly Jesuit priests, wrongly implicated by Oates and then executed. Anyone who doubted him had to keep quiet, to avoid being suspected a sympathiser and thrown in prison. Oates was eventually exposed, put on trial under James II and sentenced by Judge Jeffreys to public whipping through the streets of London, but the question remained: why was this rogue, who had faced perjury charges before, ever believed?

With

Clare Jackson
Senior Tutor and Director of Studies in History at Trinity Hall, University of Cambridge

Mark Knights
Professor of History at the University of Warwick

And

Peter Hinds
Associate Professor of English at Plymouth University


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 12 May 2016 10:18:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2945</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03twwc9.mp3" length="34358333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b079rbcj</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03twwc9.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03twwc9.mp3" fileSize="34358333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2945" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b079rbcj</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Tess of the d'Urbervilles</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Tess of the d'Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy, originally serialised in The Graphic in 1891 and, with some significant changes, published as a complete novel in 1892. The book was controversial even before serialisation, rejected by one publisher as too overtly sexual, to which a second added it did not publish 'stories where the plot involves frequent and detailed reference to immoral situations.' Hardy's description of Tess as 'A Pure Woman' in 1892 incensed some Victorian readers. He resented having to censor some of his scenes in the early versions, including references to Tess's baby following her rape by Alec d'Urberville, and even to a scene where Angel Clare lifted four milkmaids over a flooded lane (substituting transportation by wheelbarrow).

The image above, from the 1891 edition, is captioned 'It Was Not Till About Three O'clock That Tess Raised Her Eyes And Gave A Momentary Glance Round. She Felt But Little Surprise At Seeing That Alec D'urberville Had Come Back, And Was Standing Under The Hedge By The Gate'.

With 

Dinah Birch
Professor of English Literature and Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research and Impact at the University of Liverpool

Francis O'Gorman
Professor of Victorian Literature at the University of Leeds

And

Jane Thomas
Reader in Victorian and early Twentieth Century literature at the University of Hull


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Thomas Hardy's Tess of the d'Urbervilles.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Tess of the d'Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy, originally serialised in The Graphic in 1891 and, with some significant changes, published as a complete novel in 1892. The book was controversial even before serialisation, rejected by one publisher as too overtly sexual, to which a second added it did not publish 'stories where the plot involves frequent and detailed reference to immoral situations.' Hardy's description of Tess as 'A Pure Woman' in 1892 incensed some Victorian readers. He resented having to censor some of his scenes in the early versions, including references to Tess's baby following her rape by Alec d'Urberville, and even to a scene where Angel Clare lifted four milkmaids over a flooded lane (substituting transportation by wheelbarrow).

The image above, from the 1891 edition, is captioned 'It Was Not Till About Three O'clock That Tess Raised Her Eyes And Gave A Momentary Glance Round. She Felt But Little Surprise At Seeing That Alec D'urberville Had Come Back, And Was Standing Under The Hedge By The Gate'.

With 

Dinah Birch
Professor of English Literature and Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research and Impact at the University of Liverpool

Francis O'Gorman
Professor of Victorian Literature at the University of Leeds

And

Jane Thomas
Reader in Victorian and early Twentieth Century literature at the University of Hull


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 05 May 2016 10:39:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2803</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03t4fcd.mp3" length="32701666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b078zcrr</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03t4fcd.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03t4fcd.mp3" fileSize="32701666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2803" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b078zcrr</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Euclid's Elements</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Euclid's Elements, a mathematical text book attributed to Euclid and in use from its appearance in Alexandria, Egypt around 300 BC until modern times, dealing with geometry and number theory. It has been described as the most influential text book ever written. Einstein had a copy as a child, which he treasured, later saying &quot;If Euclid failed to kindle your youthful enthusiasm, then you were not born to be a scientific thinker.&quot;

With 

Marcus du Sautoy
Professor of Mathematics and Simonyi Professor for the Public Understanding of Science at the University of Oxford

Serafina Cuomo
Reader in Roman History at Birkbeck University of London

And 

June Barrow-Green
Professor of the History of Mathematics at the Open University


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Elements of Euclid.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Euclid's Elements, a mathematical text book attributed to Euclid and in use from its appearance in Alexandria, Egypt around 300 BC until modern times, dealing with geometry and number theory. It has been described as the most influential text book ever written. Einstein had a copy as a child, which he treasured, later saying &quot;If Euclid failed to kindle your youthful enthusiasm, then you were not born to be a scientific thinker.&quot;

With 

Marcus du Sautoy
Professor of Mathematics and Simonyi Professor for the Public Understanding of Science at the University of Oxford

Serafina Cuomo
Reader in Roman History at Birkbeck University of London

And 

June Barrow-Green
Professor of the History of Mathematics at the Open University


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 28 Apr 2016 10:12:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2736</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03sggfk.mp3" length="31920000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b07881kn</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03sggfk.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03sggfk.mp3" fileSize="31920000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2736" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b07881kn</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>1816, the Year Without a Summer</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the impact of the eruption of Mt Tambora, in 1815, on the Indonesian island of Sambawa. This was the largest volcanic eruption in recorded history and it had the highest death toll, devastating people living in the immediate area. Tambora has been linked with drastic weather changes in North America and Europe the following year, with frosts in June and heavy rains throughout the summer in many areas. This led to food shortages, which may have prompted westward migration in America and, in a Europe barely recovered from the Napoleonic Wars, led to widespread famine. 

With 

Clive Oppenheimer
Professor of Volcanology at the University of Cambridge

Jane Stabler
Professor in Romantic Literature at the University of St Andrews

And

Lawrence Goldman
Director of the Institute of Historical Research at the University of London


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss 1816, known as the year without a summer.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the impact of the eruption of Mt Tambora, in 1815, on the Indonesian island of Sambawa. This was the largest volcanic eruption in recorded history and it had the highest death toll, devastating people living in the immediate area. Tambora has been linked with drastic weather changes in North America and Europe the following year, with frosts in June and heavy rains throughout the summer in many areas. This led to food shortages, which may have prompted westward migration in America and, in a Europe barely recovered from the Napoleonic Wars, led to widespread famine. 

With 

Clive Oppenheimer
Professor of Volcanology at the University of Cambridge

Jane Stabler
Professor in Romantic Literature at the University of St Andrews

And

Lawrence Goldman
Director of the Institute of Historical Research at the University of London


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 21 Apr 2016 10:13:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2732</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03rq5bl.mp3" length="31873333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b077j4yv</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03rq5bl.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03rq5bl.mp3" fileSize="31873333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2732" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b077j4yv</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Neutron</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the neutron, one of the particles found in an atom's nucleus. Building on the work of Ernest Rutherford, the British physicist James Chadwick won the Nobel Prize for Physics for his discovery of the neutron in 1932. Neutrons play a fundamental role in the universe and their discovery was at the heart of developments in nuclear physics in the first half of the 20th century. 

With 

Val Gibson
Professor of High Energy Physics at the University of Cambridge and fellow of Trinity College

Andrew Harrison
Chief Executive Officer of Diamond Light Source and Professor in Chemistry at the University of Edinburgh

And

Frank Close
Professor Emeritus of Physics at the University of Oxford.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the neutron.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the neutron, one of the particles found in an atom's nucleus. Building on the work of Ernest Rutherford, the British physicist James Chadwick won the Nobel Prize for Physics for his discovery of the neutron in 1932. Neutrons play a fundamental role in the universe and their discovery was at the heart of developments in nuclear physics in the first half of the 20th century. 

With 

Val Gibson
Professor of High Energy Physics at the University of Cambridge and fellow of Trinity College

Andrew Harrison
Chief Executive Officer of Diamond Light Source and Professor in Chemistry at the University of Edinburgh

And

Frank Close
Professor Emeritus of Physics at the University of Oxford.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 14 Apr 2016 11:06:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2730</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03r0gbr.mp3" length="31849999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b076mnkr</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03r0gbr.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03r0gbr.mp3" fileSize="31849999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2730" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b076mnkr</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Sikh Empire</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the rise of the Sikh Empire at the end of the 18th Century under Ranjit Singh, pictured above, who unified most of the Sikh kingdoms following the decline of the Mughal Empire. He became Maharaja of the Punjab at Lahore in 1801, capturing Amritsar the following year. His empire flourished until 1839, after which a decade of unrest ended with the British annexation. At its peak, the Empire covered the Punjab and stretched from the Khyber Pass in the west to the edge of Tibet in the east, up to Kashmir and down to Mithankot on the Indus River. Ranjit Singh is still remembered as &quot;The Lion of the Punjab.&quot;

With 

Gurharpal Singh
Professor in Inter-Religious Relations and Development at SOAS, University of London

Chandrika Kaul
Lecturer in Modern History at the University of St Andrews

And

Susan Stronge
Senior Curator in the Asian Department of the Victoria and Albert Museum


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Maharaja Ranjit Singh and the Sikh Empire.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the rise of the Sikh Empire at the end of the 18th Century under Ranjit Singh, pictured above, who unified most of the Sikh kingdoms following the decline of the Mughal Empire. He became Maharaja of the Punjab at Lahore in 1801, capturing Amritsar the following year. His empire flourished until 1839, after which a decade of unrest ended with the British annexation. At its peak, the Empire covered the Punjab and stretched from the Khyber Pass in the west to the edge of Tibet in the east, up to Kashmir and down to Mithankot on the Indus River. Ranjit Singh is still remembered as &quot;The Lion of the Punjab.&quot;

With 

Gurharpal Singh
Professor in Inter-Religious Relations and Development at SOAS, University of London

Chandrika Kaul
Lecturer in Modern History at the University of St Andrews

And

Susan Stronge
Senior Curator in the Asian Department of the Victoria and Albert Museum


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 07 Apr 2016 10:14:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2697</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03q907r.mp3" length="31465000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b075t5mn</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03q907r.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03q907r.mp3" fileSize="31465000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2697" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b075t5mn</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Agrippina the Younger</title> <description>Agrippina the Younger was one of the most notorious and influential of the Roman empresses in the 1st century AD. She was the sister of the Emperor Caligula, a wife of the Emperor Claudius and mother of the Emperor Nero. Through careful political manoeuvres, she acquired a dominant position for herself in Rome. In 39 AD she was exiled for allegedly participating in a plot against Caligula and later it was widely thought that she killed Claudius with poison. When Nero came to the throne, he was only 16 so Agrippina took on the role of regent until he began to exert his authority. After relations between Agrippina and Nero soured, he had her murdered.

With:

Catharine Edwards
Professor of Classics and Ancient History at Birkbeck, University of London

Alice König
Lecturer in Latin and Classical Studies at the University of St Andrews

Matthew Nicholls
Associate Professor of Classics at the University of Reading

Producer: Victoria Brignell.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Roman empress Agrippina the Younger.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Agrippina the Younger was one of the most notorious and influential of the Roman empresses in the 1st century AD. She was the sister of the Emperor Caligula, a wife of the Emperor Claudius and mother of the Emperor Nero. Through careful political manoeuvres, she acquired a dominant position for herself in Rome. In 39 AD she was exiled for allegedly participating in a plot against Caligula and later it was widely thought that she killed Claudius with poison. When Nero came to the throne, he was only 16 so Agrippina took on the role of regent until he began to exert his authority. After relations between Agrippina and Nero soured, he had her murdered.

With:

Catharine Edwards
Professor of Classics and Ancient History at Birkbeck, University of London

Alice König
Lecturer in Latin and Classical Studies at the University of St Andrews

Matthew Nicholls
Associate Professor of Classics at the University of Reading

Producer: Victoria Brignell.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 31 Mar 2016 10:15:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2769</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03pl833.mp3" length="32305000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b074yzwk</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03pl833.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03pl833.mp3" fileSize="32305000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2769" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b074yzwk</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Aurora Leigh</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Elizabeth Barrett Browning's epic &quot;Aurora Leigh&quot; which was published in 1856. It is the story of an orphan, Aurora, born in Italy to an English father and Tuscan mother, who is brought up by an aunt in rural Shropshire. She has a successful career as a poet in London and, when living in Florence, is reunited with her cousin, Romney Leigh, whose proposal she turned down a decade before. The poem was celebrated by other poets and was Elizabeth Barrett Browning's most commercially successful. Over 11,000 lines, she addressed many Victorian social issues, including reform, illegitimacy, the pressure to marry and what women must overcome to be independent, successful writers, in a world dominated by men. 

With 

Margaret Reynolds
Professor of English at Queen Mary, University of London

Daniel Karlin
Winterstoke Professor of English Literature at the University of Bristol

And

Karen O'Brien
Professor of English Literature at King's College London


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Aurora Leigh by Elizabeth Barrett Browning.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Elizabeth Barrett Browning's epic &quot;Aurora Leigh&quot; which was published in 1856. It is the story of an orphan, Aurora, born in Italy to an English father and Tuscan mother, who is brought up by an aunt in rural Shropshire. She has a successful career as a poet in London and, when living in Florence, is reunited with her cousin, Romney Leigh, whose proposal she turned down a decade before. The poem was celebrated by other poets and was Elizabeth Barrett Browning's most commercially successful. Over 11,000 lines, she addressed many Victorian social issues, including reform, illegitimacy, the pressure to marry and what women must overcome to be independent, successful writers, in a world dominated by men. 

With 

Margaret Reynolds
Professor of English at Queen Mary, University of London

Daniel Karlin
Winterstoke Professor of English Literature at the University of Bristol

And

Karen O'Brien
Professor of English Literature at King's College London


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 24 Mar 2016 11:18:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2812</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03nx3yd.mp3" length="32806666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b0745d37</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03nx3yd.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03nx3yd.mp3" fileSize="32806666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2812" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b0745d37</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Bedlam</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the early years of Bedlam, the name commonly used for the London hospital of St Mary of Bethlehem outside Bishopsgate, described in 1450 by the Lord Mayor of London as a place where may &quot;be found many men that be fallen out of their wit. And full honestly they be kept in that place; and some be restored onto their wit and health again. And some be abiding therein for ever.&quot; As Bethlem, or Bedlam, it became a tourist attraction in the 17th Century at its new site in Moorfields and, for its relatively small size, made a significant impression on public attitudes to mental illness. The illustration, above, is from the eighth and final part of Hogarth's 'A Rake's Progress' (1732-3), where Bedlam is the last stage in the decline and fall of a young spendthrift,Tom Rakewell.

With 

Hilary Marland
Professor of History at the University of Warwick

Justin Champion
Professor of the History of Early Modern Ideas at Royal Holloway, University of London and President of the Historical Association

And

Jonathan Andrews
Reader in the History of Psychiatry at Newcastle University


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the early history of Bethlehem Hospital, known as Bedlam.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the early years of Bedlam, the name commonly used for the London hospital of St Mary of Bethlehem outside Bishopsgate, described in 1450 by the Lord Mayor of London as a place where may &quot;be found many men that be fallen out of their wit. And full honestly they be kept in that place; and some be restored onto their wit and health again. And some be abiding therein for ever.&quot; As Bethlem, or Bedlam, it became a tourist attraction in the 17th Century at its new site in Moorfields and, for its relatively small size, made a significant impression on public attitudes to mental illness. The illustration, above, is from the eighth and final part of Hogarth's 'A Rake's Progress' (1732-3), where Bedlam is the last stage in the decline and fall of a young spendthrift,Tom Rakewell.

With 

Hilary Marland
Professor of History at the University of Warwick

Justin Champion
Professor of the History of Early Modern Ideas at Royal Holloway, University of London and President of the Historical Association

And

Jonathan Andrews
Reader in the History of Psychiatry at Newcastle University


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 17 Mar 2016 10:59:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2817</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03n0nz6.mp3" length="32865000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b0739rfg</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03n0nz6.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03n0nz6.mp3" fileSize="32865000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2817" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b0739rfg</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Maya Civilization</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Maya Civilization, developed by the Maya people, which flourished in central America from around 250 AD in great cities such as Chichen Itza and Uxmal with advances in mathematics, architecture and astronomy. Long before the Spanish Conquest in the 16th Century, major cities had been abandoned for reasons unknown, although there are many theories including overpopulation and changing climate. The hundreds of Maya sites across Belize, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico raise intriguing questions about one of the world's great pre-industrial civilizations.

With

Elizabeth Graham
Professor of Mesoamerican Archaeology at University College London

Matthew Restall
Edwin Erle Sparks Professor of Latin American History and Anthropology at Pennsylvania State University

And

Benjamin Vis
Eastern ARC Research Fellow in Digital Humanities at the University of Kent

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Maya civilization in central America.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Maya Civilization, developed by the Maya people, which flourished in central America from around 250 AD in great cities such as Chichen Itza and Uxmal with advances in mathematics, architecture and astronomy. Long before the Spanish Conquest in the 16th Century, major cities had been abandoned for reasons unknown, although there are many theories including overpopulation and changing climate. The hundreds of Maya sites across Belize, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico raise intriguing questions about one of the world's great pre-industrial civilizations.

With

Elizabeth Graham
Professor of Mesoamerican Archaeology at University College London

Matthew Restall
Edwin Erle Sparks Professor of Latin American History and Anthropology at Pennsylvania State University

And

Benjamin Vis
Eastern ARC Research Fellow in Digital Humanities at the University of Kent

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 10 Mar 2016 12:30:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2793</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03m4k6z.mp3" length="32584999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b072n5x3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03m4k6z.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03m4k6z.mp3" fileSize="32584999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2793" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b072n5x3</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Dutch East India Company</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Vereenigde Oost-Indische Compagnie or VOC, known in English as the Dutch East India Company. The VOC dominated the spice trade between Asia and Europe for two hundred years, with the British East India Company a distant second. At its peak, the VOC had a virtual monopoly on nutmeg, mace, cloves and cinnamon, displacing the Portuguese and excluding the British, and were the only European traders allowed access to Japan.

With 

Anne Goldgar
Reader in Early Modern European History at King's College London

Chris Nierstrasz
Lecturer in Global History at Erasmus University, Rotterdam, formerly at the University of Warwick

And

Helen Paul
Lecturer in Economics and Economic History at the University of Southampton


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Dutch East India Company.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Vereenigde Oost-Indische Compagnie or VOC, known in English as the Dutch East India Company. The VOC dominated the spice trade between Asia and Europe for two hundred years, with the British East India Company a distant second. At its peak, the VOC had a virtual monopoly on nutmeg, mace, cloves and cinnamon, displacing the Portuguese and excluding the British, and were the only European traders allowed access to Japan.

With 

Anne Goldgar
Reader in Early Modern European History at King's College London

Chris Nierstrasz
Lecturer in Global History at Erasmus University, Rotterdam, formerly at the University of Warwick

And

Helen Paul
Lecturer in Economics and Economic History at the University of Southampton


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Mar 2016 11:10:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2772</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03lc0mk.mp3" length="32340000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b071vl2l</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03lc0mk.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03lc0mk.mp3" fileSize="32340000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2772" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b071vl2l</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Mary Magdalene</title> <description>Mary Magdalene is one of the best-known figures in the Bible and has been a frequent inspiration to artists and writers over the last 2000 years. According to the New Testament, she was at the foot of the cross when Jesus was crucified and was one of the first people to see Jesus after the resurrection. However, her identity has provoked a large amount of debate and in the Western Church she soon became conflated with two other figures mentioned in the Bible, a repentant sinner and Mary of Bethany. Texts discovered in the mid-20th century provoked controversy and raised further questions about the nature of her relations with Jesus.



With:



Joanne Anderson

Lecturer in Art History at the Warburg Institute, School of Advanced Study, University of London



Eamon Duffy

Emeritus Professor of the History of Christianity at the University of Cambridge and Fellow of Magdalene College



Joan Taylor

Professor of Christian Origins and Second Temple Judaism at King's College London



Producer: Victoria Brignell.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Mary Magdalene, one of the best-known figures in the Bible</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Mary Magdalene is one of the best-known figures in the Bible and has been a frequent inspiration to artists and writers over the last 2000 years. According to the New Testament, she was at the foot of the cross when Jesus was crucified and was one of the first people to see Jesus after the resurrection. However, her identity has provoked a large amount of debate and in the Western Church she soon became conflated with two other figures mentioned in the Bible, a repentant sinner and Mary of Bethany. Texts discovered in the mid-20th century provoked controversy and raised further questions about the nature of her relations with Jesus.



With:



Joanne Anderson

Lecturer in Art History at the Warburg Institute, School of Advanced Study, University of London



Eamon Duffy

Emeritus Professor of the History of Christianity at the University of Cambridge and Fellow of Magdalene College



Joan Taylor

Professor of Christian Origins and Second Temple Judaism at King's College London



Producer: Victoria Brignell.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 25 Feb 2016 11:16:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2674</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03kmz9b.mp3" length="31196666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b0717j1r</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03kmz9b.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03kmz9b.mp3" fileSize="31196666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2674" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b0717j1r</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Robert Hooke</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the life and work or Robert Hooke (1635-1703) who worked for Robert Boyle and was curator of experiments at the Royal Society. The engraving of a flea, above, is taken from his Micrographia which caused a sensation when published in 1665. Sometimes remembered for his disputes with Newton, he studied the planets with telescopes and snowflakes with microscopes. He was an early proposer of a theory of evolution, discovered light diffraction with a wave theory to explain it and felt he was rarely given due credit for his discoveries. 

With

David Wootton
Anniversary Professor of History at the University of York

Patricia Fara
President Elect of the British Society for the History of Science

And

Rob Iliffe
Professor of History of Science at Oxford University


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss 17th-century scientist Robert Hooke.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the life and work or Robert Hooke (1635-1703) who worked for Robert Boyle and was curator of experiments at the Royal Society. The engraving of a flea, above, is taken from his Micrographia which caused a sensation when published in 1665. Sometimes remembered for his disputes with Newton, he studied the planets with telescopes and snowflakes with microscopes. He was an early proposer of a theory of evolution, discovered light diffraction with a wave theory to explain it and felt he was rarely given due credit for his discoveries. 

With

David Wootton
Anniversary Professor of History at the University of York

Patricia Fara
President Elect of the British Society for the History of Science

And

Rob Iliffe
Professor of History of Science at Oxford University


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 18 Feb 2016 12:19:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2891</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03jyjtb.mp3" length="33728333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b070h6ww</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03jyjtb.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03jyjtb.mp3" fileSize="33728333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2891" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b070h6ww</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Rumi's Poetry</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the poetry of Rumi, the Persian scholar and Sufi mystic of the 13th Century. His great poetic works are the Masnavi or &quot;spiritual couplets&quot; and the Divan, a collection of thousands of lyric poems. He is closely connected with four modern countries: Afghanistan, as he was born in Balkh, from which he gains the name Balkhi; Uzbekistan from his time in Samarkand as a child; Iran as he wrote in Persian; and Turkey for his work in Konya, where he spent most of his working life and where his followers established the Mevlevi Order, also known as the Whirling Dervishes.

With 

Alan Williams
British Academy Wolfson Research Professor at the University of Manchester

Carole Hillenbrand
Professor of Islamic History at the University of St Andrews and Professor Emerita of Edinburgh University

And 

Lloyd Ridgeon
Reader in Islamic Studies at the University of Glasgow

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the poetry of Rumi (1207-1273).</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the poetry of Rumi, the Persian scholar and Sufi mystic of the 13th Century. His great poetic works are the Masnavi or &quot;spiritual couplets&quot; and the Divan, a collection of thousands of lyric poems. He is closely connected with four modern countries: Afghanistan, as he was born in Balkh, from which he gains the name Balkhi; Uzbekistan from his time in Samarkand as a child; Iran as he wrote in Persian; and Turkey for his work in Konya, where he spent most of his working life and where his followers established the Mevlevi Order, also known as the Whirling Dervishes.

With 

Alan Williams
British Academy Wolfson Research Professor at the University of Manchester

Carole Hillenbrand
Professor of Islamic History at the University of St Andrews and Professor Emerita of Edinburgh University

And 

Lloyd Ridgeon
Reader in Islamic Studies at the University of Glasgow

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 11 Feb 2016 12:53:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2804</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03j70t9.mp3" length="32713333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b06ztx2w</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03j70t9.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03j70t9.mp3" fileSize="32713333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2804" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b06ztx2w</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Chromatography</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the origins, development and uses of chromatography. In its basic form, it is familiar to generations of schoolchildren who put a spot of ink at the bottom of a strip of paper, dip it in water and then watch the pigments spread upwards, revealing their separate colours. Chemists in the 19th Century started to find new ways to separate mixtures and their work was taken further by Mikhail Tsvet, a Russian-Italian scientist who is often credited with inventing chromatography in 1900. The technique has become so widely used, it is now an integral part of testing the quality of air and water, the levels of drugs in athletes, in forensics and in the preparation of pharmaceuticals.

With

Andrea Sella
Professor of Chemistry at University College London

Apryll Stalcup
Professor of Chemical Sciences at Dublin City University

And

Leon Barron
Senior Lecturer in Forensic Science at King's College London.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the origins, development and uses of chromatography.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the origins, development and uses of chromatography. In its basic form, it is familiar to generations of schoolchildren who put a spot of ink at the bottom of a strip of paper, dip it in water and then watch the pigments spread upwards, revealing their separate colours. Chemists in the 19th Century started to find new ways to separate mixtures and their work was taken further by Mikhail Tsvet, a Russian-Italian scientist who is often credited with inventing chromatography in 1900. The technique has become so widely used, it is now an integral part of testing the quality of air and water, the levels of drugs in athletes, in forensics and in the preparation of pharmaceuticals.

With

Andrea Sella
Professor of Chemistry at University College London

Apryll Stalcup
Professor of Chemical Sciences at Dublin City University

And

Leon Barron
Senior Lecturer in Forensic Science at King's College London.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 04 Feb 2016 11:29:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2834</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03hhldg.mp3" length="33063333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b06z4w7p</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03hhldg.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03hhldg.mp3" fileSize="33063333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2834" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b06z4w7p</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Eleanor of Aquitaine</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the life, times and influence of Eleanor of Aquitaine (c1122-1204) who was one of the most powerful women in Twelfth Century Europe, possibly in the entire Middle Ages. She inherited land from the Loire down to the Pyrenees, about a third of modern France. She married first the King of France, Louis VII, joining him on the Second Crusade. She became stronger still after their marriage was annulled, as her next husband, Henry Plantagenet became Henry II of England. Two of their sons, Richard and John, became kings and she ruled for them when they were abroad. By her death in her eighties, Eleanor had children and grandchildren in power across western Europe. This led to competing claims of inheritance and, for much of the next 250 years, the Plantagenet and French kings battled over Eleanor's land.

With

Lindy Grant
Professor of Medieval History at the University of Reading

Nicholas Vincent
Professor of Medieval History at the University of East Anglia

And

Julie Barrau
University Lecturer in British Medieval History at the University of Cambridge


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Eleanor of Aquitaine, the most powerful woman of her time.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the life, times and influence of Eleanor of Aquitaine (c1122-1204) who was one of the most powerful women in Twelfth Century Europe, possibly in the entire Middle Ages. She inherited land from the Loire down to the Pyrenees, about a third of modern France. She married first the King of France, Louis VII, joining him on the Second Crusade. She became stronger still after their marriage was annulled, as her next husband, Henry Plantagenet became Henry II of England. Two of their sons, Richard and John, became kings and she ruled for them when they were abroad. By her death in her eighties, Eleanor had children and grandchildren in power across western Europe. This led to competing claims of inheritance and, for much of the next 250 years, the Plantagenet and French kings battled over Eleanor's land.

With

Lindy Grant
Professor of Medieval History at the University of Reading

Nicholas Vincent
Professor of Medieval History at the University of East Anglia

And

Julie Barrau
University Lecturer in British Medieval History at the University of Cambridge


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 28 Jan 2016 11:20:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2689</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03gt847.mp3" length="31371666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b06yfhqk</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03gt847.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03gt847.mp3" fileSize="31371666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2689" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b06yfhqk</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Thomas Paine's Common Sense</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Thomas Paine and his pamphlet &quot;Common Sense&quot; which was published in Philadelphia in January 1776 and promoted the argument for American independence from Britain. Addressed to The Inhabitants of America, it sold one hundred and fifty thousand copies in the first few months and is said, proportionately, to be the best-selling book in American history. Paine had arrived from England barely a year before. He vigorously attacked monarchy generally and George the Third in particular. He argued the colonies should abandon all hope of resolving their dispute with Britain and declare independence immediately. Many Americans were scandalised. More were inspired and, for Paine's vision of America's independent future, he has been called a Founding Father of the United States.

With 

Kathleen Burk
Professor Emerita of Modern and Contemporary History at University College London

Nicholas Guyatt
University Lecturer in American History at the University of Cambridge

And

Peter Thompson
Associate Professor of American History at the University of Oxford and Fellow of St Cross College

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Thomas Paine's pamphlet Common Sense, published in 1776.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Thomas Paine and his pamphlet &quot;Common Sense&quot; which was published in Philadelphia in January 1776 and promoted the argument for American independence from Britain. Addressed to The Inhabitants of America, it sold one hundred and fifty thousand copies in the first few months and is said, proportionately, to be the best-selling book in American history. Paine had arrived from England barely a year before. He vigorously attacked monarchy generally and George the Third in particular. He argued the colonies should abandon all hope of resolving their dispute with Britain and declare independence immediately. Many Americans were scandalised. More were inspired and, for Paine's vision of America's independent future, he has been called a Founding Father of the United States.

With 

Kathleen Burk
Professor Emerita of Modern and Contemporary History at University College London

Nicholas Guyatt
University Lecturer in American History at the University of Cambridge

And

Peter Thompson
Associate Professor of American History at the University of Oxford and Fellow of St Cross College

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 21 Jan 2016 11:26:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2740</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03g3vym.mp3" length="31966666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b06wg9dw</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03g3vym.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03g3vym.mp3" fileSize="31966666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2740" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b06wg9dw</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Saturn</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the planet Saturn with its rings of ice and rock and over 60 moons. In 1610, Galileo used an early telescope to observe Saturn, one of the brightest points in the night sky, but could not make sense of what he saw: perhaps two large moons on either side. When he looked a few years later, those supposed moons had disappeared. It was another forty years before Dutch scientist Christiaan Huygens solved the mystery, realizing the moons were really a system of rings. Successive astronomers added more detail, with the greatest leaps forward in the last forty years. The Pioneer 11 spacecraft and two Voyager missions have flown by, sending back the first close-up images, and Cassini is still there, in orbit, confirming Saturn, with its rings and many moons, as one of the most intriguing and beautiful planets in our Solar System. 

With

Carolin Crawford
Public Astronomer at the Institute of Astronomy and Fellow of Emmanuel College, University of Cambridge

Michele Dougherty
Professor of Space Physics at Imperial College London

And

Andrew Coates
Deputy Director in charge of the Solar System at the Mullard Space Science Laboratory at UCL.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the planet Saturn.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the planet Saturn with its rings of ice and rock and over 60 moons. In 1610, Galileo used an early telescope to observe Saturn, one of the brightest points in the night sky, but could not make sense of what he saw: perhaps two large moons on either side. When he looked a few years later, those supposed moons had disappeared. It was another forty years before Dutch scientist Christiaan Huygens solved the mystery, realizing the moons were really a system of rings. Successive astronomers added more detail, with the greatest leaps forward in the last forty years. The Pioneer 11 spacecraft and two Voyager missions have flown by, sending back the first close-up images, and Cassini is still there, in orbit, confirming Saturn, with its rings and many moons, as one of the most intriguing and beautiful planets in our Solar System. 

With

Carolin Crawford
Public Astronomer at the Institute of Astronomy and Fellow of Emmanuel College, University of Cambridge

Michele Dougherty
Professor of Space Physics at Imperial College London

And

Andrew Coates
Deputy Director in charge of the Solar System at the Mullard Space Science Laboratory at UCL.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 14 Jan 2016 11:46:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2815</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03fgfgb.mp3" length="32841666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b06vmr1m</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03fgfgb.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03fgfgb.mp3" fileSize="32841666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2815" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b06vmr1m</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Tristan and Iseult</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Tristan and Iseult, one of the most popular stories of the Middle Ages. From roots in Celtic myth, it passed into written form in Britain a century after the Norman Conquest and almost immediately spread throughout northern Europe. It tells of a Cornish knight and an Irish queen, Tristan and Iseult, who accidentally drink a love potion, at the same time, on the same boat, travelling to Cornwall. She is due to marry Tristan's king, Mark. Tristan and Iseult seemed ideally matched and their love was heroic, but could that excuse their adultery, in the minds of medieval listeners, particularly when the Church was so clear they were wrong?

With

Laura Ashe
Associate Professor of English at Worcester College, University of Oxford

Juliette Wood
Associate Lecturer in the School of Welsh at Cardiff University

And

Mark Chinca
Reader in Medieval German Literature at the University of Cambridge

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the story of Tristan and Iseult.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Tristan and Iseult, one of the most popular stories of the Middle Ages. From roots in Celtic myth, it passed into written form in Britain a century after the Norman Conquest and almost immediately spread throughout northern Europe. It tells of a Cornish knight and an Irish queen, Tristan and Iseult, who accidentally drink a love potion, at the same time, on the same boat, travelling to Cornwall. She is due to marry Tristan's king, Mark. Tristan and Iseult seemed ideally matched and their love was heroic, but could that excuse their adultery, in the minds of medieval listeners, particularly when the Church was so clear they were wrong?

With

Laura Ashe
Associate Professor of English at Worcester College, University of Oxford

Juliette Wood
Associate Lecturer in the School of Welsh at Cardiff University

And

Mark Chinca
Reader in Medieval German Literature at the University of Cambridge

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 31 Dec 2015 11:30:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2712</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03cpgt7.mp3" length="31640000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b06sny88</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03cpgt7.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03cpgt7.mp3" fileSize="31640000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2712" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b06sny88</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Michael Faraday</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the eminent 19th-century scientist Michael Faraday. Born into a poor working-class family, he received little formal schooling but became interested in science while working as a bookbinder's apprentice. He is celebrated today for carrying out pioneering research into the relationship between electricity and magnetism. Faraday showed that if a wire was turned in the presence of a magnet or a magnet was turned in relation to a wire, an electric current was generated. This ground-breaking discovery led to the development of the electric generator and ultimately to modern power stations. During his life he became the most famous scientist in Britain and he played a key role in founding the Royal Institution's Christmas lectures which continue today.

With:

Geoffrey Cantor
Professor Emeritus of the History of Science at the University of Leeds

Laura Herz
Professor of Physics at the University of Oxford

Frank James
Professor of the History of Science at the Royal Institution

Producer: Victoria Brignell.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the scientist Michael Faraday.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the eminent 19th-century scientist Michael Faraday. Born into a poor working-class family, he received little formal schooling but became interested in science while working as a bookbinder's apprentice. He is celebrated today for carrying out pioneering research into the relationship between electricity and magnetism. Faraday showed that if a wire was turned in the presence of a magnet or a magnet was turned in relation to a wire, an electric current was generated. This ground-breaking discovery led to the development of the electric generator and ultimately to modern power stations. During his life he became the most famous scientist in Britain and he played a key role in founding the Royal Institution's Christmas lectures which continue today.

With:

Geoffrey Cantor
Professor Emeritus of the History of Science at the University of Leeds

Laura Herz
Professor of Physics at the University of Oxford

Frank James
Professor of the History of Science at the Royal Institution

Producer: Victoria Brignell.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 24 Dec 2015 11:30:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2751</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03cnh58.mp3" length="32095000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b06s9rz9</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03cnh58.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03cnh58.mp3" fileSize="32095000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2751" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b06s9rz9</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Circadian Rhythms</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the evolution and role of Circadian Rhythms, the so-called body clock that influences an organism's daily cycle of physical, behavioural and mental changes. The rhythms are generated within organisms and also in response to external stimuli, mainly light and darkness. They are found throughout the living world, from bacteria to plants, fungi to animals and, in humans, are noticed most clearly in sleep patterns. 

With

Russell Foster
Professor of Circadian Neuroscience at the University of Oxford

Debra Skene
Professor of Neuroendocrinology at the University of Surrey

And

Steve Jones
Emeritus Professor of Genetics at University College London.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss circadian rhythms.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the evolution and role of Circadian Rhythms, the so-called body clock that influences an organism's daily cycle of physical, behavioural and mental changes. The rhythms are generated within organisms and also in response to external stimuli, mainly light and darkness. They are found throughout the living world, from bacteria to plants, fungi to animals and, in humans, are noticed most clearly in sleep patterns. 

With

Russell Foster
Professor of Circadian Neuroscience at the University of Oxford

Debra Skene
Professor of Neuroendocrinology at the University of Surrey

And

Steve Jones
Emeritus Professor of Genetics at University College London.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 17 Dec 2015 11:25:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2884</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03cc8kr.mp3" length="33646666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b06rzd44</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03cc8kr.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03cc8kr.mp3" fileSize="33646666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2884" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b06rzd44</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Chinese Legalism</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the origins and rise of Legalism in China, from the start of the Warring States Period (c475 - 221 BC) to the time of The First Emperor Qin Shi Huang (pictured), down to Chairman Mao and the present day. Advanced by the Qin statesman Shang Yang and later blended together by Han Fei, the three main aspects of Legalism were the firm implementation of laws, use of techniques such as responsibility and inscrutability, and taking advantage of the ruler's position. The Han dynasty that replaced the Qin discredited this philosophy for its apparent authoritarianism, but its influence continued, re-emerging throughout Chinese history.

With

Frances Wood
Former Curator of the Chinese Collections at the British Library

Hilde de Weerdt
Professor of Chinese History at Leiden University

And

Roel Sterckx
Joseph Needham Professor of Chinese History at the University of Cambridge.

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Chinese Legalism from the time of the First Emperor.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the origins and rise of Legalism in China, from the start of the Warring States Period (c475 - 221 BC) to the time of The First Emperor Qin Shi Huang (pictured), down to Chairman Mao and the present day. Advanced by the Qin statesman Shang Yang and later blended together by Han Fei, the three main aspects of Legalism were the firm implementation of laws, use of techniques such as responsibility and inscrutability, and taking advantage of the ruler's position. The Han dynasty that replaced the Qin discredited this philosophy for its apparent authoritarianism, but its influence continued, re-emerging throughout Chinese history.

With

Frances Wood
Former Curator of the Chinese Collections at the British Library

Hilde de Weerdt
Professor of Chinese History at Leiden University

And

Roel Sterckx
Joseph Needham Professor of Chinese History at the University of Cambridge.

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 10 Dec 2015 11:29:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2727</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03bq0gj.mp3" length="31815000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b06r84qy</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03bq0gj.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p03bq0gj.mp3" fileSize="31815000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2727" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b06r84qy</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Voyages of James Cook</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the scientific advances made in the three voyages of Captain James Cook, from 1768 to 1779. Cook's voyages astonished Europeans, bringing back detailed knowledge of the Pacific and its people, from the Antarctic to the Bering Straits. This topic is one of more than a thousand different ideas suggested by listeners in October and came from Alysoun Hodges in the UK, Fiachra O'Brolchain in Ireland, Mhairi Mackay in New Zealand, Enzo Vozzo in Australia, Jeff Radford in British Columbia and Mark Green in Alaska. 

With 

Simon Schaffer
Professor of the History of Science at the University of Cambridge

Rebekah Higgitt
Lecturer in the History of Science at the University of Kent

And

Sophie Forgan
Retired Principle Lecturer at the University of Teesside 
Chairman of Trustees of the Captain Cook Museum, Whitby

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the voyages of James Cook, as suggested by listeners.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the scientific advances made in the three voyages of Captain James Cook, from 1768 to 1779. Cook's voyages astonished Europeans, bringing back detailed knowledge of the Pacific and its people, from the Antarctic to the Bering Straits. This topic is one of more than a thousand different ideas suggested by listeners in October and came from Alysoun Hodges in the UK, Fiachra O'Brolchain in Ireland, Mhairi Mackay in New Zealand, Enzo Vozzo in Australia, Jeff Radford in British Columbia and Mark Green in Alaska. 

With 

Simon Schaffer
Professor of the History of Science at the University of Cambridge

Rebekah Higgitt
Lecturer in the History of Science at the University of Kent

And

Sophie Forgan
Retired Principle Lecturer at the University of Teesside 
Chairman of Trustees of the Captain Cook Museum, Whitby

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Dec 2015 11:32:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2836</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p039zfvt.mp3" length="33086666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b06qkrks</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p039zfvt.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p039zfvt.mp3" fileSize="33086666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2836" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b06qkrks</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Salem Witch Trials</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the outbreak of witch trials in Massachusetts in 1692-3, centred on Salem, which led to the execution of twenty people, with more dying in prison before or after trial. Some were men, including Giles Corey who died after being pressed with heavy rocks, but the majority were women. At its peak, around 150 people were suspected of witchcraft, including the wife of the governor who had established the trials. Many of the claims of witchcraft arose from personal rivalries in an area known for unrest, but were examined and upheld by the courts at a time of mass hysteria, belief in the devil, fear of attack by Native Americans and religious divisions.

With 

Susan Castillo-Street
Harriet Beecher Stowe Professor Emerita of American Studies at King's College London

Simon Middleton
Senior Lecturer in American History at the University of Sheffield

And 

Marion Gibson
Professor of Renaissance and Magical Literatures at Exeter University, Penryn Campus.

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Salem witch trials.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the outbreak of witch trials in Massachusetts in 1692-3, centred on Salem, which led to the execution of twenty people, with more dying in prison before or after trial. Some were men, including Giles Corey who died after being pressed with heavy rocks, but the majority were women. At its peak, around 150 people were suspected of witchcraft, including the wife of the governor who had established the trials. Many of the claims of witchcraft arose from personal rivalries in an area known for unrest, but were examined and upheld by the courts at a time of mass hysteria, belief in the devil, fear of attack by Native Americans and religious divisions.

With 

Susan Castillo-Street
Harriet Beecher Stowe Professor Emerita of American Studies at King's College London

Simon Middleton
Senior Lecturer in American History at the University of Sheffield

And 

Marion Gibson
Professor of Renaissance and Magical Literatures at Exeter University, Penryn Campus.

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 26 Nov 2015 11:35:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2728</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p0396tvn.mp3" length="31826666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b06pxp2z</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p0396tvn.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p0396tvn.mp3" fileSize="31826666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2728" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b06pxp2z</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Emma</title> <description>&quot;Emma Woodhouse, handsome, clever, and rich, with a comfortable home and happy disposition, seemed to unite some of the best blessings of existence; and had lived nearly twenty-one years in the world with very little to distress or vex her.&quot; So begins Emma by Jane Austen, describing her leading character who, she said, was &quot;a heroine whom no-one but myself will much like.&quot; Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss this, one of Austen's most popular novels and arguably her masterpiece, a brilliantly sparkling comedy of manners published in December 1815 by John Murray, the last to be published in Austen's lifetime. This followed Sense and Sensibility (1811), Pride and Prejudice (1813) and Mansfield Park (1814), with her brother Henry handling publication of Northanger Abbey and Persuasion (1817). 

With 

Janet Todd
Professor Emerita of Literature, University of Aberdeen and Honorary Fellow of Newnham College, Cambridge

John Mullan
Professor of English at University College, London

And

Emma Clery
Professor of English at the University of Southampton.

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Emma, the novel by Jane Austen.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>&quot;Emma Woodhouse, handsome, clever, and rich, with a comfortable home and happy disposition, seemed to unite some of the best blessings of existence; and had lived nearly twenty-one years in the world with very little to distress or vex her.&quot; So begins Emma by Jane Austen, describing her leading character who, she said, was &quot;a heroine whom no-one but myself will much like.&quot; Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss this, one of Austen's most popular novels and arguably her masterpiece, a brilliantly sparkling comedy of manners published in December 1815 by John Murray, the last to be published in Austen's lifetime. This followed Sense and Sensibility (1811), Pride and Prejudice (1813) and Mansfield Park (1814), with her brother Henry handling publication of Northanger Abbey and Persuasion (1817). 

With 

Janet Todd
Professor Emerita of Literature, University of Aberdeen and Honorary Fellow of Newnham College, Cambridge

John Mullan
Professor of English at University College, London

And

Emma Clery
Professor of English at the University of Southampton.

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 19 Nov 2015 11:50:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2847</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p038hp5p.mp3" length="33215000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b06pd3b9</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p038hp5p.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p038hp5p.mp3" fileSize="33215000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2847" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b06pd3b9</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Battle of Lepanto</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss The Battle of Lepanto, 1571, the last great sea battle between galleys, in which the Catholic fleet of the Holy League of principally Venice, Spain, the Papal States, Malta, Genoa, and Savoy defeated the Ottoman forces of Selim II. When much of Europe was divided over the Reformation, this was the first major victory of a Christian force over a Turkish fleet. The battle followed the Ottoman invasion of Venetian Cyprus and decades in which the Venetians had been trying to stop the broader westward expansion of the Ottomans into the Mediterranean. The outcome had a great impact on morale in Europe and Pope Pius V established a feast day of Our Lady of Victory. Some historians call it the most significant sea battle since Actium (31 BC). However, the Ottomans viewed the loss as less significant than their victory in Cyprus and, within two years, the Holy League had broken up.

With

Diarmaid MacCulloch
Professor of the History of the Church at the University of Oxford

Kate Fleet
Director of the Skilliter Centre for Ottoman Studies and Fellow of Newnham College, University of Cambridge

And

Noel Malcolm
A Senior Research Fellow in History at All Soul's College, University of Oxford 


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Battle of Lepanto, 1571.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss The Battle of Lepanto, 1571, the last great sea battle between galleys, in which the Catholic fleet of the Holy League of principally Venice, Spain, the Papal States, Malta, Genoa, and Savoy defeated the Ottoman forces of Selim II. When much of Europe was divided over the Reformation, this was the first major victory of a Christian force over a Turkish fleet. The battle followed the Ottoman invasion of Venetian Cyprus and decades in which the Venetians had been trying to stop the broader westward expansion of the Ottomans into the Mediterranean. The outcome had a great impact on morale in Europe and Pope Pius V established a feast day of Our Lady of Victory. Some historians call it the most significant sea battle since Actium (31 BC). However, the Ottomans viewed the loss as less significant than their victory in Cyprus and, within two years, the Holy League had broken up.

With

Diarmaid MacCulloch
Professor of the History of the Church at the University of Oxford

Kate Fleet
Director of the Skilliter Centre for Ottoman Studies and Fellow of Newnham College, University of Cambridge

And

Noel Malcolm
A Senior Research Fellow in History at All Soul's College, University of Oxford 


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 12 Nov 2015 12:36:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2898</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p037v6jv.mp3" length="33809999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b06nrqv8</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p037v6jv.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p037v6jv.mp3" fileSize="33809999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2898" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b06nrqv8</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>P v NP</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the problem of P versus NP, which has a bearing on online security. There is a $1,000,000 prize on offer from the Clay Mathematical Institute for the first person to come up with a complete solution. At its heart is the question &quot;are there problems for which the answers can be checked by computers, but not found in a reasonable time?&quot; If the answer to that is yes, then P does not equal NP. However, if all answers can be found easily as well as checked, if only we knew how, then P equals NP. The area has intrigued mathematicians and computer scientists since Alan Turing, in 1936, found that it's impossible to decide in general whether an algorithm will run forever on some problems. Resting on P versus NP is the security of all online transactions which are currently encrypted: if it transpires that P=NP, if answers could be found as easily as checked, computers could crack passwords in moments.

With 

Colva Roney-Dougal
Reader in Pure Mathematics at the University of St Andrews

Timothy Gowers
Royal Society Research Professor in Mathematics at the University of Cambridge

And 

Leslie Ann Goldberg
Professor of Computer Science and Fellow of St Edmund Hall, University of Oxford

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the mathematical problem of P versus NP.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the problem of P versus NP, which has a bearing on online security. There is a $1,000,000 prize on offer from the Clay Mathematical Institute for the first person to come up with a complete solution. At its heart is the question &quot;are there problems for which the answers can be checked by computers, but not found in a reasonable time?&quot; If the answer to that is yes, then P does not equal NP. However, if all answers can be found easily as well as checked, if only we knew how, then P equals NP. The area has intrigued mathematicians and computer scientists since Alan Turing, in 1936, found that it's impossible to decide in general whether an algorithm will run forever on some problems. Resting on P versus NP is the security of all online transactions which are currently encrypted: if it transpires that P=NP, if answers could be found as easily as checked, computers could crack passwords in moments.

With 

Colva Roney-Dougal
Reader in Pure Mathematics at the University of St Andrews

Timothy Gowers
Royal Society Research Professor in Mathematics at the University of Cambridge

And 

Leslie Ann Goldberg
Professor of Computer Science and Fellow of St Edmund Hall, University of Oxford

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 05 Nov 2015 11:06:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2745</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p037611x.mp3" length="32025000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b06mtms8</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p037611x.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p037611x.mp3" fileSize="32025000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2745" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b06mtms8</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Empire of Mali</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Empire of Mali which flourished from 1200 to 1600 and was famous in the wider world for the wealth of rulers such as Mansa Musa. Mali was the largest empire in west Africa and for almost 400 years controlled the flow of gold from mines in the south up to the Mediterranean coast and across to the Middle East. These gold mines were the richest known deposits in the 14th Century and produced around half of the world's gold. When Mansa Musa journeyed to Cairo in 1324 as part of his Hajj, he distributed so much gold that its value depreciated by over 10%. Some of the mosques he built on his return survive, albeit rebuilt, such as the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Great Mosque of Djenne. 

With 

Amira Bennison
Reader in the History and Culture of the Maghrib at the University of Cambridge

Marie Rodet
Senior Lecturer in the History of Africa at SOAS

And

Kevin MacDonald
Professor of African Archaeology
Chair of the African Studies Programme at University College, London 

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the empire of Mali.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Empire of Mali which flourished from 1200 to 1600 and was famous in the wider world for the wealth of rulers such as Mansa Musa. Mali was the largest empire in west Africa and for almost 400 years controlled the flow of gold from mines in the south up to the Mediterranean coast and across to the Middle East. These gold mines were the richest known deposits in the 14th Century and produced around half of the world's gold. When Mansa Musa journeyed to Cairo in 1324 as part of his Hajj, he distributed so much gold that its value depreciated by over 10%. Some of the mosques he built on his return survive, albeit rebuilt, such as the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Great Mosque of Djenne. 

With 

Amira Bennison
Reader in the History and Culture of the Maghrib at the University of Cambridge

Marie Rodet
Senior Lecturer in the History of Africa at SOAS

And

Kevin MacDonald
Professor of African Archaeology
Chair of the African Studies Programme at University College, London 

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 29 Oct 2015 11:03:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2867</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p036jnft.mp3" length="33448333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b06kgggv</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p036jnft.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p036jnft.mp3" fileSize="33448333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2867" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b06kgggv</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Simone de Beauvoir</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Simone de Beauvoir. &quot;One is not born, but rather becomes, a woman,&quot; she wrote in her best known and most influential work, The Second Sex, her exploration of what it means to be a woman in a world defined by men. Published in 1949, it was an immediate success with the thousands of women who bought it. Many male critics felt men came out of it rather badly. Beauvoir was born in 1908 to a high bourgeois family and it was perhaps her good fortune that her father lost his money when she was a girl. With no dowry, she pursued her education in Paris to get work and in a key exam to allow her to teach philosophy, came second only to Jean Paul Sartre. He was retaking. They became lovers and, for the rest of their lives together, intellectual sparring partners. Sartre concentrated on existentialist philosophy; Beauvoir explored that, and existentialist ethics, plus the novel and, increasingly in the decades up to her death in 1986, the situation of women in the world. 

With
Christina Howells
Professor of French and Fellow of Wadham College at the University of Oxford

Margaret Atack
Professor of French at the University of Leeds

And 

Ursula Tidd
Professor of Modern French Literature and Thought at the University of Manchester


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the ideas, work and life of Simone de Beauvoir.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Simone de Beauvoir. &quot;One is not born, but rather becomes, a woman,&quot; she wrote in her best known and most influential work, The Second Sex, her exploration of what it means to be a woman in a world defined by men. Published in 1949, it was an immediate success with the thousands of women who bought it. Many male critics felt men came out of it rather badly. Beauvoir was born in 1908 to a high bourgeois family and it was perhaps her good fortune that her father lost his money when she was a girl. With no dowry, she pursued her education in Paris to get work and in a key exam to allow her to teach philosophy, came second only to Jean Paul Sartre. He was retaking. They became lovers and, for the rest of their lives together, intellectual sparring partners. Sartre concentrated on existentialist philosophy; Beauvoir explored that, and existentialist ethics, plus the novel and, increasingly in the decades up to her death in 1986, the situation of women in the world. 

With
Christina Howells
Professor of French and Fellow of Wadham College at the University of Oxford

Margaret Atack
Professor of French at the University of Leeds

And 

Ursula Tidd
Professor of Modern French Literature and Thought at the University of Manchester


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 22 Oct 2015 11:39:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2760</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p035x4n7.mp3" length="32199999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b06j5ncn</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p035x4n7.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p035x4n7.mp3" fileSize="32199999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2760" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b06j5ncn</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Holbein at the Tudor Court</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the life and work of Hans Holbein the Younger (1497-1543) during his two extended stays in England, when he worked at the Tudor Court and became the King's painter. Holbein created some of the most significant portraits of his age, including an image of Henry VIII, looking straight at the viewer, hands on hips, that has dominated perceptions of him since. The original at Whitehall Palace was said to make visitors tremble at its majesty. Holbein was later sent to Europe to paint the women who might be Henry's fourth wife; his depiction of Anne of Cleves was enough to encourage Henry to marry her, a decision Henry quickly regretted and for which Thomas Cromwell, her supporter, was executed. His paintings still shape the way we see those in and around the Tudor Court, including Cromwell, Thomas More, the infant Prince Edward (of which there is a detail, above), The Ambassadors and, of course, Henry the Eighth himself.

With

Susan Foister
Curator of Early Netherlandish, German and British Painting at the National Gallery

John Guy
A fellow of Clare College, University of Cambridge

And

Maria Hayward
Professor of Early Modern History at the University of Southampton

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Holbein at the court of Henry VIII.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the life and work of Hans Holbein the Younger (1497-1543) during his two extended stays in England, when he worked at the Tudor Court and became the King's painter. Holbein created some of the most significant portraits of his age, including an image of Henry VIII, looking straight at the viewer, hands on hips, that has dominated perceptions of him since. The original at Whitehall Palace was said to make visitors tremble at its majesty. Holbein was later sent to Europe to paint the women who might be Henry's fourth wife; his depiction of Anne of Cleves was enough to encourage Henry to marry her, a decision Henry quickly regretted and for which Thomas Cromwell, her supporter, was executed. His paintings still shape the way we see those in and around the Tudor Court, including Cromwell, Thomas More, the infant Prince Edward (of which there is a detail, above), The Ambassadors and, of course, Henry the Eighth himself.

With

Susan Foister
Curator of Early Netherlandish, German and British Painting at the National Gallery

John Guy
A fellow of Clare College, University of Cambridge

And

Maria Hayward
Professor of Early Modern History at the University of Southampton

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 15 Oct 2015 10:48:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2790</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p035901x.mp3" length="32549999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b06gw3jj</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p035901x.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p035901x.mp3" fileSize="32549999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2790" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b06gw3jj</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Alexander the Great</title> <description>Alexander the Great is one of the most celebrated military commanders in history. Born into the Macedonian royal family in 356 BC, he gained control of Greece and went on to conquer the Persian Empire, defeating its powerful king, Darius III. At its peak, Alexander's empire covered modern Turkey, Syria, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan and part of India. As a result, Greek culture and language was spread into regions it had not penetrated before, and he is also remembered for founding a number of cities. Over the last 2,000 years, the legend of Alexander has grown and he has influenced numerous generals and politicians.

With:

Paul Cartledge
Emeritus Professor of Greek Culture and AG Leventis Senior Research Fellow at Clare College, University of Cambridge

Diana Spencer
Professor of Classics at the University of Birmingham

Rachel Mairs
Lecturer in Classics at the University of Reading

Producer: Victoria Brignell.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the life and legacy of Alexander the Great.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Alexander the Great is one of the most celebrated military commanders in history. Born into the Macedonian royal family in 356 BC, he gained control of Greece and went on to conquer the Persian Empire, defeating its powerful king, Darius III. At its peak, Alexander's empire covered modern Turkey, Syria, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan and part of India. As a result, Greek culture and language was spread into regions it had not penetrated before, and he is also remembered for founding a number of cities. Over the last 2,000 years, the legend of Alexander has grown and he has influenced numerous generals and politicians.

With:

Paul Cartledge
Emeritus Professor of Greek Culture and AG Leventis Senior Research Fellow at Clare College, University of Cambridge

Diana Spencer
Professor of Classics at the University of Birmingham

Rachel Mairs
Lecturer in Classics at the University of Reading

Producer: Victoria Brignell.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 01 Oct 2015 10:45:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2833</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p0341lxg.mp3" length="33051666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b06d9bkx</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p0341lxg.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p0341lxg.mp3" fileSize="33051666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2833" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b06d9bkx</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Perpetual Motion</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the rise of the idea of perpetual motion and its decline, in the 19th Century, with the Laws of Thermodynamics. For hundreds of years, some of the greatest names in science thought there might be machines that could power themselves endlessly. Leonardo Da Vinci tested the idea of a constantly-spinning wheel and Robert Boyle tried to recirculate water from a draining flask. Gottfried Leibniz supported a friend, Orffyreus, who claimed he had built an ever-rotating wheel. An increasing number of scientists voiced their doubts about perpetual motion, from the time of Galileo, but none could prove it was impossible. For scientists, the designs were a way of exploring the laws of nature. Others claimed their inventions actually worked, and promised a limitless supply of energy. It was not until the 19th Century that the picture became clearer, with the experiments of James Joule and Robert Mayer on the links between heat and work, and the establishment of the First and Second Laws of Thermodynamics.

With 

Ruth Gregory
Professor of Mathematics and Physics at Durham University

Frank Close
Professor Emeritus of Physics at the University of Oxford

and

Steven Bramwell
Professor of Physics and former Professor of Chemistry at University College London


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss perpetual motion.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the rise of the idea of perpetual motion and its decline, in the 19th Century, with the Laws of Thermodynamics. For hundreds of years, some of the greatest names in science thought there might be machines that could power themselves endlessly. Leonardo Da Vinci tested the idea of a constantly-spinning wheel and Robert Boyle tried to recirculate water from a draining flask. Gottfried Leibniz supported a friend, Orffyreus, who claimed he had built an ever-rotating wheel. An increasing number of scientists voiced their doubts about perpetual motion, from the time of Galileo, but none could prove it was impossible. For scientists, the designs were a way of exploring the laws of nature. Others claimed their inventions actually worked, and promised a limitless supply of energy. It was not until the 19th Century that the picture became clearer, with the experiments of James Joule and Robert Mayer on the links between heat and work, and the establishment of the First and Second Laws of Thermodynamics.

With 

Ruth Gregory
Professor of Mathematics and Physics at Durham University

Frank Close
Professor Emeritus of Physics at the University of Oxford

and

Steven Bramwell
Professor of Physics and former Professor of Chemistry at University College London


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 24 Sep 2015 11:49:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2740</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p033d65z.mp3" length="31966666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b06c06nd</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p033d65z.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p033d65z.mp3" fileSize="31966666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2740" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b06c06nd</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Frida Kahlo</title> <description>Born near Mexico City in 1907, Frida Kahlo is considered one of Mexico's greatest artists. She took up painting after a bus accident left her severely injured, was a Communist, married Diego Rivera, a celebrated muralist, became friends with Trotsky and developed an iconic series of self-portraits. Her work brings together elements such as surrealism, pop culture, Aztec and Indian mythology and commentary on Mexican culture. In 1938, artist and poet Andre Breton organised an exhibition of her work in New York, writing in the catalogue, &quot;The Art of Frida Kahlo is a ribbon around a bomb.&quot; She was not as widely appreciated during her lifetime as she has since become, but is now one of the most recognised artists of the 20th century. 

With

Patience Schell
Chair in Hispanic Studies at the University of Aberdeen

Valerie Fraser
Emeritus Professor of Latin American Art at the University of Essex

And

Alan Knight
Emeritus Professor of the History of Latin America at the University of Oxford

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Frida Kahlo.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Born near Mexico City in 1907, Frida Kahlo is considered one of Mexico's greatest artists. She took up painting after a bus accident left her severely injured, was a Communist, married Diego Rivera, a celebrated muralist, became friends with Trotsky and developed an iconic series of self-portraits. Her work brings together elements such as surrealism, pop culture, Aztec and Indian mythology and commentary on Mexican culture. In 1938, artist and poet Andre Breton organised an exhibition of her work in New York, writing in the catalogue, &quot;The Art of Frida Kahlo is a ribbon around a bomb.&quot; She was not as widely appreciated during her lifetime as she has since become, but is now one of the most recognised artists of the 20th century. 

With

Patience Schell
Chair in Hispanic Studies at the University of Aberdeen

Valerie Fraser
Emeritus Professor of Latin American Art at the University of Essex

And

Alan Knight
Emeritus Professor of the History of Latin America at the University of Oxford

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 09 Jul 2015 10:39:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2737</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02wmz21.mp3" length="31931666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b06125zc</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02wmz21.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02wmz21.mp3" fileSize="31931666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2737" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b06125zc</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Frederick the Great</title> <description>Frederick the Great ruled Prussia from 1740 until his death in 1786. Born in 1712, he increased the power of the state, he made Prussia the leading military power in Europe and his bold campaigns had great implications for the European political landscape. An absolute monarch in the age of enlightenment, he was a prolific writer, attracted figures such as Voltaire to his court, fostered education and put Berlin firmly on the cultural map. He was much admired by Napoleon and was often romanticised by German historians, becoming a hero for many in united Germany in the 19th and 20th centuries. Others, however, vilified him for aspects such as his militarism and the partition of Poland. 

With 

Tim Blanning
Emeritus Professor of Modern European History at the University of Cambridge

Katrin Kohl
Professor of German Literature at the University of Oxford and a Fellow of Jesus College

And 

Thomas Biskup
Lecturer in Early Modern History at the University of Hull


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Frederick II, king of Prussia from 1740 to 1786.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Frederick the Great ruled Prussia from 1740 until his death in 1786. Born in 1712, he increased the power of the state, he made Prussia the leading military power in Europe and his bold campaigns had great implications for the European political landscape. An absolute monarch in the age of enlightenment, he was a prolific writer, attracted figures such as Voltaire to his court, fostered education and put Berlin firmly on the cultural map. He was much admired by Napoleon and was often romanticised by German historians, becoming a hero for many in united Germany in the 19th and 20th centuries. Others, however, vilified him for aspects such as his militarism and the partition of Poland. 

With 

Tim Blanning
Emeritus Professor of Modern European History at the University of Cambridge

Katrin Kohl
Professor of German Literature at the University of Oxford and a Fellow of Jesus College

And 

Thomas Biskup
Lecturer in Early Modern History at the University of Hull


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 02 Jul 2015 13:38:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2899</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02w41qc.mp3" length="33821666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b060bctg</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02w41qc.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02w41qc.mp3" fileSize="33821666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2899" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b060bctg</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Extremophiles</title> <description>In 1977, scientists in the submersible &quot;Alvin&quot; were exploring the deep ocean bed off the Galapagos Islands. In the dark, they discovered hydrothermal vents, like chimneys, from which superheated water flowed. Around the vents there was an extraordinary variety of life, feeding on microbes which were thriving in the acidity and extreme temperature of the vents. While it was already known that some microbes are extremophiles, thriving in extreme conditions, such as the springs and geysers of Yellowstone Park (pictured), that had not prepared scientists for what they now found. Since the &quot;Alvin&quot; discovery, the increased study of extremophile microbes has revealed much about what is and is not needed to sustain life on Earth and given rise to new theories about how and where life began. It has also suggested forms and places in which life might be found elsewhere in the Universe. 

With 

Monica Grady
Professor of Planetary and Space Sciences at the Open University

Ian Crawford
Professor of Planetary Science and Astrobiology at Birkbeck University of London

And

Nick Lane
Reader in Evolutionary Biochemistry at University College London

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss extremophiles and astrobiology.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>In 1977, scientists in the submersible &quot;Alvin&quot; were exploring the deep ocean bed off the Galapagos Islands. In the dark, they discovered hydrothermal vents, like chimneys, from which superheated water flowed. Around the vents there was an extraordinary variety of life, feeding on microbes which were thriving in the acidity and extreme temperature of the vents. While it was already known that some microbes are extremophiles, thriving in extreme conditions, such as the springs and geysers of Yellowstone Park (pictured), that had not prepared scientists for what they now found. Since the &quot;Alvin&quot; discovery, the increased study of extremophile microbes has revealed much about what is and is not needed to sustain life on Earth and given rise to new theories about how and where life began. It has also suggested forms and places in which life might be found elsewhere in the Universe. 

With 

Monica Grady
Professor of Planetary and Space Sciences at the Open University

Ian Crawford
Professor of Planetary Science and Astrobiology at Birkbeck University of London

And

Nick Lane
Reader in Evolutionary Biochemistry at University College London

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2015 10:36:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2787</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02vk15n.mp3" length="32515000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b05zl3v2</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02vk15n.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02vk15n.mp3" fileSize="32515000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2787" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b05zl3v2</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Jane Eyre</title> <description>The story of Jane Eyre is one of the best-known in English fiction. Jane is the orphan who survives a miserable early life, first with her aunt at Gateshead Hall and then at Lowood School. She leaves the school for Thornfield Hall, to become governess to the French ward of Mr Rochester. She and Rochester fall in love but, at their wedding, it is revealed he is married already and his wife, insane, is kept in Thornfield's attic. When Jane Eyre was published in 1847, it was a great success and brought fame to Charlotte Bronte. Combined with Gothic mystery and horror, the book explores many themes, including the treatment of children, relations between men and women, religious faith and hypocrisy, individuality, morality, equality and the nature of true love. 



With



Dinah Birch

Professor of English Literature and Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research at the University of Liverpool



Karen O'Brien

Vice Principal and Professor of English Literature at King's College London



And



Sara Lyons

Lecturer in Victorian Literature at the University of Kent



Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte, first published in 1847.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>The story of Jane Eyre is one of the best-known in English fiction. Jane is the orphan who survives a miserable early life, first with her aunt at Gateshead Hall and then at Lowood School. She leaves the school for Thornfield Hall, to become governess to the French ward of Mr Rochester. She and Rochester fall in love but, at their wedding, it is revealed he is married already and his wife, insane, is kept in Thornfield's attic. When Jane Eyre was published in 1847, it was a great success and brought fame to Charlotte Bronte. Combined with Gothic mystery and horror, the book explores many themes, including the treatment of children, relations between men and women, religious faith and hypocrisy, individuality, morality, equality and the nature of true love. 



With



Dinah Birch

Professor of English Literature and Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research at the University of Liverpool



Karen O'Brien

Vice Principal and Professor of English Literature at King's College London



And



Sara Lyons

Lecturer in Victorian Literature at the University of Kent



Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 18 Jun 2015 15:29:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2737</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02v0v68.mp3" length="31931666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b05y11v8</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02v0v68.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02v0v68.mp3" fileSize="31931666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2737" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b05y11v8</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Utilitarianism</title> <description>A moral theory that emphasises ends over means, Utilitarianism holds that a good act is one that increases pleasure in the world and decreases pain. The tradition flourished in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries with Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill, and has antecedents in ancient philosophy. According to Bentham, happiness is the means for assessing the utility of an act, declaring &quot;it is the greatest happiness of the greatest number that is the measure of right and wrong.&quot; Mill and others went on to refine and challenge Bentham's views and to defend them from critics such as Thomas Carlyle, who termed Utilitarianism a &quot;doctrine worthy only of swine.&quot;

With

Melissa Lane
The Class of 1943 Professor of Politics at Princeton University

Janet Radcliffe Richards
Professor of Practical Philosophy at the University of Oxford

and

Brad Hooker
A Professor of Philosophy at the University of Reading

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Utilitarianism.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>A moral theory that emphasises ends over means, Utilitarianism holds that a good act is one that increases pleasure in the world and decreases pain. The tradition flourished in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries with Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill, and has antecedents in ancient philosophy. According to Bentham, happiness is the means for assessing the utility of an act, declaring &quot;it is the greatest happiness of the greatest number that is the measure of right and wrong.&quot; Mill and others went on to refine and challenge Bentham's views and to defend them from critics such as Thomas Carlyle, who termed Utilitarianism a &quot;doctrine worthy only of swine.&quot;

With

Melissa Lane
The Class of 1943 Professor of Politics at Princeton University

Janet Radcliffe Richards
Professor of Practical Philosophy at the University of Oxford

and

Brad Hooker
A Professor of Philosophy at the University of Reading

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 11 Jun 2015 10:03:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2639</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02tfjn4.mp3" length="30788333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b05xhwqf</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02tfjn4.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02tfjn4.mp3" fileSize="30788333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2639" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b05xhwqf</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Prester John</title> <description>In the Middle Ages, Prester John was seen as the great hope for Crusaders struggling to hold on to, then regain, Jerusalem. He was thought to rule a lost Christian kingdom somewhere in the East and was ready to attack Muslim opponents with his enormous armies. There was apparent proof of Prester John's existence, in letters purportedly from him and in stories from travelers who claimed they had met, if not him, then people who had news of him. Most pointed to a home in the earthly paradise in the Indies, outside Eden, with fantastical animals and unimaginable riches. Later, Portuguese explorers thought they had found him in Ethiopia, despite the mystified denials of people there. Melvyn Bragg asks why the legend was so strongly believed for so long, and what facts helped sustain the myths.

With

Marianne O'Doherty
Associate Professor in English at the University of Southampton

Martin Palmer
Director of the International Consultancy on Religion, Education, and Culture

And

Amanda Power
Senior Lecturer in Medieval History at the University of Sheffield.

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the legend of Prester John.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>In the Middle Ages, Prester John was seen as the great hope for Crusaders struggling to hold on to, then regain, Jerusalem. He was thought to rule a lost Christian kingdom somewhere in the East and was ready to attack Muslim opponents with his enormous armies. There was apparent proof of Prester John's existence, in letters purportedly from him and in stories from travelers who claimed they had met, if not him, then people who had news of him. Most pointed to a home in the earthly paradise in the Indies, outside Eden, with fantastical animals and unimaginable riches. Later, Portuguese explorers thought they had found him in Ethiopia, despite the mystified denials of people there. Melvyn Bragg asks why the legend was so strongly believed for so long, and what facts helped sustain the myths.

With

Marianne O'Doherty
Associate Professor in English at the University of Southampton

Martin Palmer
Director of the International Consultancy on Religion, Education, and Culture

And

Amanda Power
Senior Lecturer in Medieval History at the University of Sheffield.

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2015 10:07:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2681</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02swmcq.mp3" length="31278333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">urn:bbc:podcast:b05wyq5m</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02swmcq.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02swmcq.mp3" fileSize="31278333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2681" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b05wyq5m</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Science of Glass</title> <description>While glass items have been made for at least 5,000 years, scientists are yet to explain, conclusively, what happens when the substance it's made from moves from a molten state to its hard, transparent phase. It is said to be one of the great unsolved problems in physics. While apparently solid, the glass retains certain properties of a liquid. At times, ways of making glass have been highly confidential; in Venice in the Middle Ages, disclosure of manufacturing techniques was a capital offence. Despite the complexity and mystery of the science of glass, glass technology has continued to advance from sheet glass to crystal glass, optical glass and prisms, to float glasses, chemical glassware, fibre optics and metal glasses.

With:

Dame Athene Donald
Professor of Experimental Physics at the University of Cambridge and Master of Churchill College, Cambridge

Jim Bennett
Former Director of the Museum of the History of Science at the University of Oxford and Keeper Emeritus at the Science Museum

Paul McMillan
Professor of Chemistry at University College London

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the puzzling science of glass.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>While glass items have been made for at least 5,000 years, scientists are yet to explain, conclusively, what happens when the substance it's made from moves from a molten state to its hard, transparent phase. It is said to be one of the great unsolved problems in physics. While apparently solid, the glass retains certain properties of a liquid. At times, ways of making glass have been highly confidential; in Venice in the Middle Ages, disclosure of manufacturing techniques was a capital offence. Despite the complexity and mystery of the science of glass, glass technology has continued to advance from sheet glass to crystal glass, optical glass and prisms, to float glasses, chemical glassware, fibre optics and metal glasses.

With:

Dame Athene Donald
Professor of Experimental Physics at the University of Cambridge and Master of Churchill College, Cambridge

Jim Bennett
Former Director of the Museum of the History of Science at the University of Oxford and Keeper Emeritus at the Science Museum

Paul McMillan
Professor of Chemistry at University College London

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 28 May 2015 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2757</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02sv89y.mp3" length="32165000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20150528-1145.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02sv89y.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02sv89y.mp3" fileSize="32165000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2757" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b05w456c</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Josephus</title> <description>It is said that, in Britain from the 18th Century, copies of Josephus' works were as widespread and as well read as The Bible. Christians valued &quot;The Antiquities of the Jews&quot; in particular, for the retelling of parts of the Old Testament and apparently corroborating the historical existence of Jesus. Born Joseph son of Matthias, in Jerusalem, in 37AD, he fought the Romans in Galilee in the First Jewish-Roman War. He was captured by Vespasian's troops and became a Roman citizen, later describing the siege and fall of Jerusalem. His actions and writings made him a controversial figure, from his lifetime to the present day.

With

Tessa Rajak
Professor Emeritus of Ancient History, University of Reading

Philip Alexander
Professor Emeritus of Jewish Studies, University of Manchester

And

Martin Goodman
Professor of Jewish Studies, University of Oxford and President of the Oxford Centre for Hebrew and Jewish Studies

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Flavius Josephus, author of The Jewish War.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>It is said that, in Britain from the 18th Century, copies of Josephus' works were as widespread and as well read as The Bible. Christians valued &quot;The Antiquities of the Jews&quot; in particular, for the retelling of parts of the Old Testament and apparently corroborating the historical existence of Jesus. Born Joseph son of Matthias, in Jerusalem, in 37AD, he fought the Romans in Galilee in the First Jewish-Roman War. He was captured by Vespasian's troops and became a Roman citizen, later describing the siege and fall of Jerusalem. His actions and writings made him a controversial figure, from his lifetime to the present day.

With

Tessa Rajak
Professor Emeritus of Ancient History, University of Reading

Philip Alexander
Professor Emeritus of Jewish Studies, University of Manchester

And

Martin Goodman
Professor of Jewish Studies, University of Oxford and President of the Oxford Centre for Hebrew and Jewish Studies

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 21 May 2015 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2736</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02sv8hv.mp3" length="31920000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20150521-1205.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02sv8hv.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02sv8hv.mp3" fileSize="31920000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2736" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b05vfdzl</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Lancashire Cotton Famine</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Cotton Famine in Lancashire from 1861-65. The Famine followed the blockade of Confederate Southern ports during the American Civil War which stopped the flow of cotton into mills in Britain and Europe. Reports at the time told of starvation, mass unemployment and migration. Abraham Lincoln wrote, &quot;I know and deeply deplore the sufferings which the working-men of Manchester, and in all Europe, are called to endure in this crisis.&quot; While the full cause and extent of the Famine in Lancashire are disputed, the consequences of this and the cotton blockade were far reaching.

With

Lawrence Goldman
Director of the Institute of Historical Research at the University of London

Emma Griffin
Professor of History at the University of East Anglia

And

David Brown
Senior Lecturer in American Studies at University of Manchester

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Lancashire cotton famine during the American Civil War</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Cotton Famine in Lancashire from 1861-65. The Famine followed the blockade of Confederate Southern ports during the American Civil War which stopped the flow of cotton into mills in Britain and Europe. Reports at the time told of starvation, mass unemployment and migration. Abraham Lincoln wrote, &quot;I know and deeply deplore the sufferings which the working-men of Manchester, and in all Europe, are called to endure in this crisis.&quot; While the full cause and extent of the Famine in Lancashire are disputed, the consequences of this and the cotton blockade were far reaching.

With

Lawrence Goldman
Director of the Institute of Historical Research at the University of London

Emma Griffin
Professor of History at the University of East Anglia

And

David Brown
Senior Lecturer in American Studies at University of Manchester

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2015 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2712</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02sv8c7.mp3" length="31640000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20150514-1145.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02sv8c7.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02sv8c7.mp3" fileSize="31640000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2712" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b05tly3f</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Tagore</title> <description>Rabindranath Tagore was the first non-European to win a Nobel Prize for Literature. He has been called one of the outstanding thinkers of the 20th century and the greatest poet India has ever produced. His Nobel followed publication of Gitanjali, his English version of some of his Bengali poems. WB Yeats and Ezra Pound were great supporters. Tagore was born in Calcutta in 1861 and educated partly in Britain; King George V knighted him, but Tagore renounced this in 1919 following the Amritsar Massacre. A key figure in Indian nationalism, Tagore became a friend of Gandhi, offering criticism as well as support. A polymath and progressive, Tagore painted, wrote plays, novels, short stories and many songs. The national anthems of India and Bangladesh are based on his poems. 

With

Chandrika Kaul
Lecturer in Modern History at the University of St Andrews

Bashabi Fraser
Professor of English Literature and Creative Writing at Edinburgh Napier University

And

John Stevens
Leverhulme Postdoctoral Fellow at SOAS, University of London


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Rabindranath Tagore.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Rabindranath Tagore was the first non-European to win a Nobel Prize for Literature. He has been called one of the outstanding thinkers of the 20th century and the greatest poet India has ever produced. His Nobel followed publication of Gitanjali, his English version of some of his Bengali poems. WB Yeats and Ezra Pound were great supporters. Tagore was born in Calcutta in 1861 and educated partly in Britain; King George V knighted him, but Tagore renounced this in 1919 following the Amritsar Massacre. A key figure in Indian nationalism, Tagore became a friend of Gandhi, offering criticism as well as support. A polymath and progressive, Tagore painted, wrote plays, novels, short stories and many songs. The national anthems of India and Bangladesh are based on his poems. 

With

Chandrika Kaul
Lecturer in Modern History at the University of St Andrews

Bashabi Fraser
Professor of English Literature and Creative Writing at Edinburgh Napier University

And

John Stevens
Leverhulme Postdoctoral Fellow at SOAS, University of London


Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 07 May 2015 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2796</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02s45d7.mp3" length="32619999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20150507-1205.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02s45d7.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02s45d7.mp3" fileSize="32619999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2796" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b05sxv7b</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Earth's Core</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Earth's Core. The inner core is an extremely dense, solid ball of iron and nickel, the size of the Moon, while the outer core is a flowing liquid, the size of Mars. Thanks to the magnetic fields produced within the core, life on Earth is possible. The magnetosphere protects the Earth from much of the Sun's radiation and the flow of particles which would otherwise strip away the atmosphere. The precise structure of the core and its properties have been fascinating scientists from the Renaissance. Recent seismographs show the picture is even more complex than we might have imagined, with suggestions that the core is spinning at a different speed and on a different axis from the surface.

With

Stephen Blundell
Professor of Physics and Fellow of Mansfield College at the University of Oxford

Arwen Deuss
Associate Professor in Seismology at Utrecht University

and

Simon Redfern
Professor of Mineral Physics at the University of Cambridge

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Earth's core.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Earth's Core. The inner core is an extremely dense, solid ball of iron and nickel, the size of the Moon, while the outer core is a flowing liquid, the size of Mars. Thanks to the magnetic fields produced within the core, life on Earth is possible. The magnetosphere protects the Earth from much of the Sun's radiation and the flow of particles which would otherwise strip away the atmosphere. The precise structure of the core and its properties have been fascinating scientists from the Renaissance. Recent seismographs show the picture is even more complex than we might have imagined, with suggestions that the core is spinning at a different speed and on a different axis from the surface.

With

Stephen Blundell
Professor of Physics and Fellow of Mansfield College at the University of Oxford

Arwen Deuss
Associate Professor in Seismology at Utrecht University

and

Simon Redfern
Professor of Mineral Physics at the University of Cambridge

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 2015 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2801</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02s3mnk.mp3" length="32678333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20150430-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02s3mnk.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02s3mnk.mp3" fileSize="32678333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2801" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b05s3gyv</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Fanny Burney</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and work of the 18th-century novelist, playwright and diarist Fanny Burney, also known as Madame D'Arblay and Frances Burney. Her first novel, Evelina, was published anonymously and caused a sensation, attracting the admiration of many eminent contemporaries. In an era when very few women published their work she achieved extraordinary success, and her admirers included Dr Johnson and Edmund Burke; later Virginia Woolf called her 'the mother of English fiction'.

With 

Nicole Pohl
Reader in English Literature at Oxford Brookes University

Judith Hawley
Professor of Eighteenth-Century Literature at Royal Holloway, University of London

and

John Mullan
Professor of English at University College London. 

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the work of the 18th-century writer Fanny Burney.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and work of the 18th-century novelist, playwright and diarist Fanny Burney, also known as Madame D'Arblay and Frances Burney. Her first novel, Evelina, was published anonymously and caused a sensation, attracting the admiration of many eminent contemporaries. In an era when very few women published their work she achieved extraordinary success, and her admirers included Dr Johnson and Edmund Burke; later Virginia Woolf called her 'the mother of English fiction'.

With 

Nicole Pohl
Reader in English Literature at Oxford Brookes University

Judith Hawley
Professor of Eighteenth-Century Literature at Royal Holloway, University of London

and

John Mullan
Professor of English at University College London. 

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2015 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2665</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02s3jw4.mp3" length="31091666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20150423-1150.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02s3jw4.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02s3jw4.mp3" fileSize="31091666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2665" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b05r3zjk</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Matteo Ricci and the Ming Dynasty</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life of Matteo Ricci, a Jesuit priest who in the 16th century led a Christian mission to China. An accomplished scholar, Ricci travelled extensively and came into contact with senior officials of the Ming Dynasty administration. His story is one of the most important encounters between Renaissance Europe and a China which was still virtually closed to outsiders.

With 

Mary Laven
Reader in Early Modern History at the University of Cambridge

Craig Clunas
Professor of the History of Art at the University of Oxford

and

Anne Gerritsen
Reader in History at the University of Warwick 

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Matteo Ricci's 16th-century travels in Ming China.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life of Matteo Ricci, a Jesuit priest who in the 16th century led a Christian mission to China. An accomplished scholar, Ricci travelled extensively and came into contact with senior officials of the Ming Dynasty administration. His story is one of the most important encounters between Renaissance Europe and a China which was still virtually closed to outsiders.

With 

Mary Laven
Reader in Early Modern History at the University of Cambridge

Craig Clunas
Professor of the History of Art at the University of Oxford

and

Anne Gerritsen
Reader in History at the University of Warwick 

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 16 Apr 2015 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2724</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02qfzkg.mp3" length="31779999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20150416-1150.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02qfzkg.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02qfzkg.mp3" fileSize="31779999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2724" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b05qjq67</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Sappho</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Greek poet Sappho. Born in the late seventh century BC, Sappho spent much of her life on the island of Lesbos. In antiquity she was famed as one of the greatest lyric poets, but owing to a series of accidents the bulk of her work was lost to posterity. The fragments that do survive, however, give a tantalising glimpse of a unique voice of Greek literature. Her work has lived on in other languages, too, translated by such major poets as Ovid, Christina Rossetti and Baudelaire.

With

Edith Hall
Professor of Classics at King's College, London

Margaret Reynolds
Professor of English at Queen Mary, University of London

and 

Dirk Obbink
Professor of Papyrology and Greek Literature at the University of Oxford
Fellow and tutor at Christ Church, Oxford

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the ancient Greek poet Sappho.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Greek poet Sappho. Born in the late seventh century BC, Sappho spent much of her life on the island of Lesbos. In antiquity she was famed as one of the greatest lyric poets, but owing to a series of accidents the bulk of her work was lost to posterity. The fragments that do survive, however, give a tantalising glimpse of a unique voice of Greek literature. Her work has lived on in other languages, too, translated by such major poets as Ovid, Christina Rossetti and Baudelaire.

With

Edith Hall
Professor of Classics at King's College, London

Margaret Reynolds
Professor of English at Queen Mary, University of London

and 

Dirk Obbink
Professor of Papyrology and Greek Literature at the University of Oxford
Fellow and tutor at Christ Church, Oxford

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2015 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2762</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02qj081.mp3" length="32223333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20150409-1145.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02qj081.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02qj081.mp3" fileSize="32223333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2762" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b05pqsk4</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The California Gold Rush</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the California Gold Rush. In 1849 the recent discovery of gold at Coloma, near Sacramento in California, led to a massive influx of prospectors seeking to make their fortunes. Within a couple of years the tiny settlement of San Francisco had become a major city, with tens of thousands of immigrants, the so-called Forty-Niners, arriving by boat and over land. The gold rush transformed the west coast of America and its economy, but also uprooted local populations of Native Americans and made irreversible changes to natural habitats.

With:

Kathleen Burk
Professor of Modern and Contemporary History at University College London

Jacqueline Fear-Segal
Reader in American History and Culture at the University of East Anglia

Frank Cogliano
Professor of American History at the University of Edinburgh.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the California Gold Rush of the 1850s.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the California Gold Rush. In 1849 the recent discovery of gold at Coloma, near Sacramento in California, led to a massive influx of prospectors seeking to make their fortunes. Within a couple of years the tiny settlement of San Francisco had become a major city, with tens of thousands of immigrants, the so-called Forty-Niners, arriving by boat and over land. The gold rush transformed the west coast of America and its economy, but also uprooted local populations of Native Americans and made irreversible changes to natural habitats.

With:

Kathleen Burk
Professor of Modern and Contemporary History at University College London

Jacqueline Fear-Segal
Reader in American History and Culture at the University of East Anglia

Frank Cogliano
Professor of American History at the University of Edinburgh.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 2015 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2752</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02qh5zz.mp3" length="32106666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20150402-1150.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02qh5zz.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02qh5zz.mp3" fileSize="32106666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2752" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b05nxgdd</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Curies</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the scientific achievements of the Curie family. In 1903 Marie and Pierre Curie shared a Nobel Prize in Physics with Henri Becquerel for their work on radioactivity, a term which Marie coined. Marie went on to win a Nobel in Chemistry eight years later; remarkably, her daughter Irène Joliot-Curie would later share a Nobel with her husband Frédéric Joliot-Curie for their discovery that it was possible to create radioactive materials in the laboratory. The work of the Curies added immensely to our knowledge of fundamental physics and paved the way for modern treatments for cancer and other illnesses.

With:

Patricia Fara
Senior Tutor of Clare College, University of Cambridge

Robert Fox
Emeritus Professor of the History of Science at the University of Oxford

Steven T Bramwell
Professor of Physics and former Professor of Chemistry at University College London

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the scientific achievements of the Curie family.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the scientific achievements of the Curie family. In 1903 Marie and Pierre Curie shared a Nobel Prize in Physics with Henri Becquerel for their work on radioactivity, a term which Marie coined. Marie went on to win a Nobel in Chemistry eight years later; remarkably, her daughter Irène Joliot-Curie would later share a Nobel with her husband Frédéric Joliot-Curie for their discovery that it was possible to create radioactive materials in the laboratory. The work of the Curies added immensely to our knowledge of fundamental physics and paved the way for modern treatments for cancer and other illnesses.

With:

Patricia Fara
Senior Tutor of Clare College, University of Cambridge

Robert Fox
Emeritus Professor of the History of Science at the University of Oxford

Steven T Bramwell
Professor of Physics and former Professor of Chemistry at University College London

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2015 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2842</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q596w.mp3" length="33156666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20150326-1230.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q596w.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q596w.mp3" fileSize="33156666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2842" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b05n1dmt</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Al-Ghazali</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and work of Al-Ghazali, a major philosopher and theologian of the late 11th century. Born in Persia, he was one of the most prominent intellectuals of his age, working in such centres of learning as Baghdad, Damascus and Jerusalem. He is now seen as a key figure in the development of Islamic thought, not just refining the theology of Islam but also building on the existing philosophical tradition inherited from the ancient Greeks.

With:

Peter Adamson
Professor of Late Ancient and Arabic Philosophy at the LMU in Munich

Carole Hillenbrand
Professor of Islamic History at Edinburgh and St Andrews Universities

Robert Gleave
Professor of Arabic Studies at the University of Exeter

Producer: Victoria Brignell.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the medieval Islamic thinker Al-Ghazali.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and work of Al-Ghazali, a major philosopher and theologian of the late 11th century. Born in Persia, he was one of the most prominent intellectuals of his age, working in such centres of learning as Baghdad, Damascus and Jerusalem. He is now seen as a key figure in the development of Islamic thought, not just refining the theology of Islam but also building on the existing philosophical tradition inherited from the ancient Greeks.

With:

Peter Adamson
Professor of Late Ancient and Arabic Philosophy at the LMU in Munich

Carole Hillenbrand
Professor of Islamic History at Edinburgh and St Andrews Universities

Robert Gleave
Professor of Arabic Studies at the University of Exeter

Producer: Victoria Brignell.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2015 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2652</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5976.mp3" length="30940000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20150319-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5976.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5976.mp3" fileSize="30940000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2652" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b055j9rv</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Dark Matter</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss dark matter, the mysterious and invisible substance which is believed to make up most of the Universe. In 1932 the Dutch astronomer Jan Oort noticed that the speed at which galaxies moved was at odds with the amount of material they appeared to contain. He hypothesized that much of this 'missing' matter was simply invisible to telescopes. Today astronomers and particle physicists are still fascinated by the search for dark matter and the question of what it is.

With 

Carolin Crawford
Public Astronomer at the Institute of Astronomy, University of Cambridge and Gresham Professor of Astronomy

Carlos Frenk
Ogden Professor of Fundamental Physics and Director of the Institute for Computational Cosmology at the University of Durham

Anne Green
Reader in Physics at the University of Nottingham

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss dark matter, the 'missing mass' of the universe.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss dark matter, the mysterious and invisible substance which is believed to make up most of the Universe. In 1932 the Dutch astronomer Jan Oort noticed that the speed at which galaxies moved was at odds with the amount of material they appeared to contain. He hypothesized that much of this 'missing' matter was simply invisible to telescopes. Today astronomers and particle physicists are still fascinated by the search for dark matter and the question of what it is.

With 

Carolin Crawford
Public Astronomer at the Institute of Astronomy, University of Cambridge and Gresham Professor of Astronomy

Carlos Frenk
Ogden Professor of Fundamental Physics and Director of the Institute for Computational Cosmology at the University of Durham

Anne Green
Reader in Physics at the University of Nottingham

Producer: Simon Tillotson.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2015 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2743</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q597f.mp3" length="32001666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20150312-1145.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q597f.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q597f.mp3" fileSize="32001666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2743" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b054t3s2</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Beowulf</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the epic poem Beowulf, one of the masterpieces of Anglo-Saxon literature. Composed in the early Middle Ages by an anonymous poet, the work tells the story of a Scandinavian hero whose feats include battles with the fearsome monster Grendel and a fire-breathing dragon. It survives in a single manuscript dating from around 1000 AD, and was almost completely unknown until its rediscovery in the nineteenth century. Since then it has been translated into modern English by writers including William Morris, JRR Tolkien and Seamus Heaney, and inspired poems, novels and films.

With:

Laura Ashe
Associate Professor in English at the University of Oxford and Fellow of Worcester College

Clare Lees
Professor of Medieval English Literature and History of the Language at King's College London

Andy Orchard
Rawlinson and Bosworth Professor of Anglo-Saxon at the University of Oxford

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the epic Anglo-Saxon poem Beowulf.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the epic poem Beowulf, one of the masterpieces of Anglo-Saxon literature. Composed in the early Middle Ages by an anonymous poet, the work tells the story of a Scandinavian hero whose feats include battles with the fearsome monster Grendel and a fire-breathing dragon. It survives in a single manuscript dating from around 1000 AD, and was almost completely unknown until its rediscovery in the nineteenth century. Since then it has been translated into modern English by writers including William Morris, JRR Tolkien and Seamus Heaney, and inspired poems, novels and films.

With:

Laura Ashe
Associate Professor in English at the University of Oxford and Fellow of Worcester College

Clare Lees
Professor of Medieval English Literature and History of the Language at King's College London

Andy Orchard
Rawlinson and Bosworth Professor of Anglo-Saxon at the University of Oxford

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 05 Mar 2015 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2789</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q597m.mp3" length="32538333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20150305-1120.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q597m.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q597m.mp3" fileSize="32538333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2789" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b0542xt7</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Eunuch</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the history and significance of eunuchs, castrated men who were a common feature of many civilisations for at least three thousand years. Eunuchs were typically employed as servants in royal households in the ancient Middle East, China and classical antiquity. In some civilisations they were used as administrators or senior military commanders, sometimes achieving high office. The tradition lingered until surprisingly recently, with castrated singers remaining a feature of Vatican choirs until the nineteenth century, while the last Chinese eunuch of the imperial court died in 1996.

With:

Karen Radner
Professor of Ancient Near Eastern History at University College London

Shaun Tougher
Reader in Ancient History at Cardiff University

Michael Hoeckelmann
British Academy Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of History at King's College London

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the history and significance of eunuchs.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the history and significance of eunuchs, castrated men who were a common feature of many civilisations for at least three thousand years. Eunuchs were typically employed as servants in royal households in the ancient Middle East, China and classical antiquity. In some civilisations they were used as administrators or senior military commanders, sometimes achieving high office. The tradition lingered until surprisingly recently, with castrated singers remaining a feature of Vatican choirs until the nineteenth century, while the last Chinese eunuch of the imperial court died in 1996.

With:

Karen Radner
Professor of Ancient Near Eastern History at University College London

Shaun Tougher
Reader in Ancient History at Cardiff University

Michael Hoeckelmann
British Academy Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of History at King's College London

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2015 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2801</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q597v.mp3" length="32678333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20150226-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q597v.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q597v.mp3" fileSize="32678333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2801" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b053bsf9</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Wealth of Nations</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Adam Smith's celebrated economic treatise The Wealth of Nations. Smith was one of Scotland's greatest thinkers, a moral philosopher and pioneer of economic theory whose 1776 masterpiece has come to define classical economics. Based on his careful consideration of the transformation wrought on the British economy by the Industrial Revolution, and how it contrasted with marketplaces elsewhere in the world, the book outlined a theory of wealth and how it is accumulated that has arguably had more influence on economic theory than any other.

With:

Richard Whatmore
Professor of Modern History and Director of the Institute of Intellectual History at the University of St Andrews

Donald Winch
Emeritus Professor of Intellectual History at the University of Sussex

Helen Paul
Lecturer in Economics and Economic History at the University of Southampton

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Adam Smith's economic treatise The Wealth of Nations.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Adam Smith's celebrated economic treatise The Wealth of Nations. Smith was one of Scotland's greatest thinkers, a moral philosopher and pioneer of economic theory whose 1776 masterpiece has come to define classical economics. Based on his careful consideration of the transformation wrought on the British economy by the Industrial Revolution, and how it contrasted with marketplaces elsewhere in the world, the book outlined a theory of wealth and how it is accumulated that has arguably had more influence on economic theory than any other.

With:

Richard Whatmore
Professor of Modern History and Director of the Institute of Intellectual History at the University of St Andrews

Donald Winch
Emeritus Professor of Intellectual History at the University of Sussex

Helen Paul
Lecturer in Economics and Economic History at the University of Southampton

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2015 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2765</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5981.mp3" length="32258333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20150219-1115.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5981.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5981.mp3" fileSize="32258333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2765" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b052ln55</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Photon</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the photon, one of the most enigmatic objects in the Universe. Generations of scientists have struggled to understand the nature of light. In the late nineteenth century it seemed clear that light was an electromagnetic wave. But the work of physicists including Planck and Einstein shed doubt on this theory. Today scientists accept that light can behave both as a wave and a particle, the latter known as the photon. Understanding light in terms of photons has enabled the development of some of the most important technology of the last fifty years.

With:

Frank Close
Professor Emeritus of Physics at the University of Oxford

Wendy Flavell
Professor of Surface Physics at the University of Manchester

Susan Cartwright
Senior Lecturer in Physics and Astronomy at the University of Sheffield.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the photon, the fundamental particle of light.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the photon, one of the most enigmatic objects in the Universe. Generations of scientists have struggled to understand the nature of light. In the late nineteenth century it seemed clear that light was an electromagnetic wave. But the work of physicists including Planck and Einstein shed doubt on this theory. Today scientists accept that light can behave both as a wave and a particle, the latter known as the photon. Understanding light in terms of photons has enabled the development of some of the most important technology of the last fifty years.

With:

Frank Close
Professor Emeritus of Physics at the University of Oxford

Wendy Flavell
Professor of Surface Physics at the University of Manchester

Susan Cartwright
Senior Lecturer in Physics and Astronomy at the University of Sheffield.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 12 Feb 2015 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2702</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5988.mp3" length="31523333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20150212-1105.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5988.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5988.mp3" fileSize="31523333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2702" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b051vlpf</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Ashoka the Great</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Indian Emperor Ashoka. Active in the 3rd century BC, Ashoka conquered almost all of the landmass covered by modern-day India, creating the largest empire South Asia had ever known. After his campaign of conquest he converted to Buddhism, and spread the religion throughout his domain. His edicts were inscribed on the sides of an extraordinary collection of stone pillars spread far and wide across his empire, many of which survive today. Our knowledge of ancient India and its chronology, and how this aligns with the history of Europe, is largely dependent on this important set of inscriptions, which were deciphered only in the nineteenth century.

With:

Jessica Frazier
Lecturer in Religious Studies at the University of Kent and a Research Fellow at the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies

Naomi Appleton
Chancellor's Fellow in Religious Studies at the University of Edinburgh

Richard Gombrich
Founder and Academic Director of the Oxford Centre for Buddhist Studies and Emeritus Professor of Sanskrit at the University of Oxford

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Indian ruler Ashoka the Great.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Indian Emperor Ashoka. Active in the 3rd century BC, Ashoka conquered almost all of the landmass covered by modern-day India, creating the largest empire South Asia had ever known. After his campaign of conquest he converted to Buddhism, and spread the religion throughout his domain. His edicts were inscribed on the sides of an extraordinary collection of stone pillars spread far and wide across his empire, many of which survive today. Our knowledge of ancient India and its chronology, and how this aligns with the history of Europe, is largely dependent on this important set of inscriptions, which were deciphered only in the nineteenth century.

With:

Jessica Frazier
Lecturer in Religious Studies at the University of Kent and a Research Fellow at the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies

Naomi Appleton
Chancellor's Fellow in Religious Studies at the University of Edinburgh

Richard Gombrich
Founder and Academic Director of the Oxford Centre for Buddhist Studies and Emeritus Professor of Sanskrit at the University of Oxford

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 05 Feb 2015 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2796</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q598m.mp3" length="32619999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20150205-1052.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q598m.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q598m.mp3" fileSize="32619999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2796" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b0511tm1</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Thucydides</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the ancient Greek historian Thucydides. In the fifth century BC Thucydides wrote The History of the Peloponnesian War, an account of a conflict in which he had himself taken part. This work is now seen as one of the first great masterpieces of history writing, a book which influenced writers for centuries afterwards. Thucydides was arguably the first historian to make a conscious attempt to be objective, bringing a rational and impartial approach to his scholarship. Today his work is still widely studied at military colleges and in the field of international relations for the insight it brings to bear on complex political situations.

With:

Paul Cartledge
Emeritus Professor of Greek Culture and AG Leventis Senior Research Fellow at Clare College, Cambridge

Katherine Harloe
Associate Professor in Classics and Intellectual History at the University of Reading

Neville Morley
Professor of Ancient History at the University of Bristol

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the ancient Greek historian Thucydides.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the ancient Greek historian Thucydides. In the fifth century BC Thucydides wrote The History of the Peloponnesian War, an account of a conflict in which he had himself taken part. This work is now seen as one of the first great masterpieces of history writing, a book which influenced writers for centuries afterwards. Thucydides was arguably the first historian to make a conscious attempt to be objective, bringing a rational and impartial approach to his scholarship. Today his work is still widely studied at military colleges and in the field of international relations for the insight it brings to bear on complex political situations.

With:

Paul Cartledge
Emeritus Professor of Greek Culture and AG Leventis Senior Research Fellow at Clare College, Cambridge

Katherine Harloe
Associate Professor in Classics and Intellectual History at the University of Reading

Neville Morley
Professor of Ancient History at the University of Bristol

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2015 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2739</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q598w.mp3" length="31955000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20150129-1045.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q598w.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q598w.mp3" fileSize="31955000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2739" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b050bcf1</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Phenomenology</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss phenomenology, a style of philosophy developed by the German thinker Edmund Husserl in the first decades of the 20th century. Husserl's initial insights underwent a radical transformation in the work of his student Martin Heidegger, and played a key role in the development of French philosophy at the hands of writers like Emmanuel Levinas, Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir and Maurice Merleau-Ponty.

Phenomenology has been a remarkably adaptable approach to philosophy. It has given its proponents a platform to expose and critique the basic assumptions of past philosophy, and to talk about everything from the foundations of geometry to the difference between fear and anxiety. It has also been instrumental in getting philosophy out of the seminar room and making it relevant to the lives people actually lead. 

GUESTS

Simon Glendinning, Professor of European Philosophy in the European Institute at the London School of Economics 

Joanna Hodge, Professor of Philosophy at Manchester Metropolitan University 

Stephen Mulhall, Professor of Philosophy and Tutor at New College at the University of Oxford 

Producer: Luke Mulhall.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the philosophical movement phenomenology.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss phenomenology, a style of philosophy developed by the German thinker Edmund Husserl in the first decades of the 20th century. Husserl's initial insights underwent a radical transformation in the work of his student Martin Heidegger, and played a key role in the development of French philosophy at the hands of writers like Emmanuel Levinas, Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir and Maurice Merleau-Ponty.

Phenomenology has been a remarkably adaptable approach to philosophy. It has given its proponents a platform to expose and critique the basic assumptions of past philosophy, and to talk about everything from the foundations of geometry to the difference between fear and anxiety. It has also been instrumental in getting philosophy out of the seminar room and making it relevant to the lives people actually lead. 

GUESTS

Simon Glendinning, Professor of European Philosophy in the European Institute at the London School of Economics 

Joanna Hodge, Professor of Philosophy at Manchester Metropolitan University 

Stephen Mulhall, Professor of Philosophy and Tutor at New College at the University of Oxford 

Producer: Luke Mulhall.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2015 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2793</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5991.mp3" length="32584999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20150122-1215.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5991.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5991.mp3" fileSize="32584999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2793" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b04ykk4m</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Bruegel's The Fight Between Carnival and Lent</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Pieter Bruegel the Elder's painting of 1559, 'The Fight Between Carnival And Lent'. Created in Antwerp at a time of religious tension between Catholics and Protestants, the painting is rich in detail and seems ripe for interpretation. But Bruegel is notoriously difficult to interpret. His art seems to reject the preoccupations of the Italian Renaissance, drawing instead on techniques associated with the new technology of the 16th century, print. Was Bruegel using his art to comment on the controversies of his day? If so, what comment was he making? 

CONTRIBUTORS

Louise Milne, Lecturer in Visual Culture in the School of Art at the University of Edinburgh and Edinburgh Napier University

Jeanne Nuechterlein, Senior Lecturer in the Department of History of Art, University of York

Miri Rubin, Professor of Medieval and Early Modern History and Head of the School of History at Queen Mary, University of London

Producer: Luke Mulhall.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Bruegel's painting The Fight Between Carnival and Lent.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Pieter Bruegel the Elder's painting of 1559, 'The Fight Between Carnival And Lent'. Created in Antwerp at a time of religious tension between Catholics and Protestants, the painting is rich in detail and seems ripe for interpretation. But Bruegel is notoriously difficult to interpret. His art seems to reject the preoccupations of the Italian Renaissance, drawing instead on techniques associated with the new technology of the 16th century, print. Was Bruegel using his art to comment on the controversies of his day? If so, what comment was he making? 

CONTRIBUTORS

Louise Milne, Lecturer in Visual Culture in the School of Art at the University of Edinburgh and Edinburgh Napier University

Jeanne Nuechterlein, Senior Lecturer in the Department of History of Art, University of York

Miri Rubin, Professor of Medieval and Early Modern History and Head of the School of History at Queen Mary, University of London

Producer: Luke Mulhall.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 15 Jan 2015 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2735</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5998.mp3" length="31908333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20150115-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5998.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5998.mp3" fileSize="31908333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2735" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b04xrv9n</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Truth</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the philosophy of truth. Pontius Pilate famously asked: what is truth? In the twentieth century, the nature of truth became a subject of particular interest to philosophers, but they preferred to ask a slightly different question: what does it mean to say of any particular statement that it is true? What is the difference between these two questions, and how useful is the second of them?

With:

Simon Blackburn
Fellow of Trinity College, University of Cambridge, and Professor of Philosophy at the New College of the Humanities

Jennifer Hornsby
Professor of Philosophy at Birkbeck, University of London

Crispin Wright
Regius Professor of Logic at the University of Aberdeen, and Professor of Philosophy at New York University

Producer: Victoria Brignell and Luke Mulhall.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss philosophical approaches to truth.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the philosophy of truth. Pontius Pilate famously asked: what is truth? In the twentieth century, the nature of truth became a subject of particular interest to philosophers, but they preferred to ask a slightly different question: what does it mean to say of any particular statement that it is true? What is the difference between these two questions, and how useful is the second of them?

With:

Simon Blackburn
Fellow of Trinity College, University of Cambridge, and Professor of Philosophy at the New College of the Humanities

Jennifer Hornsby
Professor of Philosophy at Birkbeck, University of London

Crispin Wright
Regius Professor of Logic at the University of Aberdeen, and Professor of Philosophy at New York University

Producer: Victoria Brignell and Luke Mulhall.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 18 Dec 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2530</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q599f.mp3" length="29516666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20141218-1030.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q599f.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q599f.mp3" fileSize="29516666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2530" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b04v59gz</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Behavioural Ecology</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Behavioural Ecology, the scientific study of animal behaviour.

What factors influence where and what an animal chooses to eat? Why do some animals mate for life whilst others are promiscuous? Behavioural ecologists approach questions like these using Darwin's theory of natural selection, along with ideas drawn from game theory and the economics of consumer choice.

Scientists had always been interested in why animals behave as they do, but before behavioural ecology this area of zoology never got much beyond a collection of interesting anecdotes. Behavioural ecology gave researchers techniques for constructing rigorous mathematical models of how animals act under different circumstances, and for predicting how they will react if circumstances change. Behavioural ecology emerged as a branch of zoology in the second half of the 20th century and proponents say it revolutionized our understanding of animals in their environments.

GUESTS

Steve Jones, Emeritus Professor of Genetics at University College London

Rebecca Kilner, Professor of Evolutionary Biology at the University of Cambridge

John Krebs, Principal of Jesus College at the University of Oxford

Producer: Luke Mulhall.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss behavioural ecology.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Behavioural Ecology, the scientific study of animal behaviour.

What factors influence where and what an animal chooses to eat? Why do some animals mate for life whilst others are promiscuous? Behavioural ecologists approach questions like these using Darwin's theory of natural selection, along with ideas drawn from game theory and the economics of consumer choice.

Scientists had always been interested in why animals behave as they do, but before behavioural ecology this area of zoology never got much beyond a collection of interesting anecdotes. Behavioural ecology gave researchers techniques for constructing rigorous mathematical models of how animals act under different circumstances, and for predicting how they will react if circumstances change. Behavioural ecology emerged as a branch of zoology in the second half of the 20th century and proponents say it revolutionized our understanding of animals in their environments.

GUESTS

Steve Jones, Emeritus Professor of Genetics at University College London

Rebecca Kilner, Professor of Evolutionary Biology at the University of Cambridge

John Krebs, Principal of Jesus College at the University of Oxford

Producer: Luke Mulhall.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 11 Dec 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2735</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q599t.mp3" length="31908333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20141211-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q599t.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q599t.mp3" fileSize="31908333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2735" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b04tljk0</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Zen</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Zen. It's often thought of as a form of Buddhism that emphasises the practice of meditation over any particular set of beliefs. In fact Zen belongs to a particular intellectual tradition within Buddhism that took root in China in the 6th century AD. It spread to Japan in the early Middle Ages, where Zen practitioners set up religious institutions like temples, monasteries and universities that remain important today.

GUESTS

Tim Barrett, Emeritus Professor in the Department of the Study of Religions at SOAS, University of London

Lucia Dolce, Numata Reader in Japanese Buddhism at SOAS, University of London

Eric Greene, Lecturer in East Asian Religions at the University of Bristol

Producer: Luke Mulhall.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Zen, a distinctively East Asian form of Buddhism.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Zen. It's often thought of as a form of Buddhism that emphasises the practice of meditation over any particular set of beliefs. In fact Zen belongs to a particular intellectual tradition within Buddhism that took root in China in the 6th century AD. It spread to Japan in the early Middle Ages, where Zen practitioners set up religious institutions like temples, monasteries and universities that remain important today.

GUESTS

Tim Barrett, Emeritus Professor in the Department of the Study of Religions at SOAS, University of London

Lucia Dolce, Numata Reader in Japanese Buddhism at SOAS, University of London

Eric Greene, Lecturer in East Asian Religions at the University of Bristol

Producer: Luke Mulhall.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 04 Dec 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2708</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59b1.mp3" length="31593333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20141204-1140.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59b1.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59b1.mp3" fileSize="31593333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2708" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b04sxv29</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Kafka's The Trial</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Franz Kafka's novel of power and alienation 'The Trial', in which readers follow the protagonist Joseph K into a bizarre, nightmarish world in which he stands accused of an unknown crime; courts of interrogation convene in obscure tenement buildings; and there seems to be no escape from a crushing, oppressive bureaucracy.

Kafka was a German-speaking Jew who lived in the Czech city of Prague, during the turbulent years which followed the First World War. He spent his days working as a lawyer for an insurance company, but by night he wrote stories and novels considered some of the high points of twentieth century literature. His explorations of power and alienation have chimed with existentialists, Marxists, psychoanalysts, postmodernists - and Radio 4 listeners, who suggested this as our topic for listener week on In Our Time.

GUESTS

Elizabeth Boa, Professor Emerita of German at the University of Nottingham
Steve Connor, Grace 2 Professor of English at the University of Cambridge
Ritchie Robertson, Taylor Professor of the German Language and Literature at the University of Oxford

Producer: Luke Mulhall.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss The Trial, by Franz Kafka.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Franz Kafka's novel of power and alienation 'The Trial', in which readers follow the protagonist Joseph K into a bizarre, nightmarish world in which he stands accused of an unknown crime; courts of interrogation convene in obscure tenement buildings; and there seems to be no escape from a crushing, oppressive bureaucracy.

Kafka was a German-speaking Jew who lived in the Czech city of Prague, during the turbulent years which followed the First World War. He spent his days working as a lawyer for an insurance company, but by night he wrote stories and novels considered some of the high points of twentieth century literature. His explorations of power and alienation have chimed with existentialists, Marxists, psychoanalysts, postmodernists - and Radio 4 listeners, who suggested this as our topic for listener week on In Our Time.

GUESTS

Elizabeth Boa, Professor Emerita of German at the University of Nottingham
Steve Connor, Grace 2 Professor of English at the University of Cambridge
Ritchie Robertson, Taylor Professor of the German Language and Literature at the University of Oxford

Producer: Luke Mulhall.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 27 Nov 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2598</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59b7.mp3" length="30309999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20141127-1255.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59b7.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59b7.mp3" fileSize="30309999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2598" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b04pv8j1</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Aesop</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Aesop. According to some accounts, Aesop was a strikingly ugly slave who was dumb until granted the power of speech by the goddess Isis. In stories of his life he's often found outwitting his masters using clever wordplay, but he's best known today as the supposed author of a series of fables that are some of the most enduringly popular works of Ancient Greek literature. Some modern scholars question whether he existed at all, but the body of work that has come down to us under his name gives us a rare glimpse of the popular culture of the Ancient World.

WITH

Pavlos Avlamis, Junior Research Fellow in Classics at Trinity College at the University of Oxford

Simon Goldhill, Professor of Greek Literature and Culture at the University of Cambridge

Lucy Grig, Senior Lecturer in Classics at the University of Edinburgh

Producer: Luke Mulhall.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Aesop, legendary author of the famous collection of fables</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Aesop. According to some accounts, Aesop was a strikingly ugly slave who was dumb until granted the power of speech by the goddess Isis. In stories of his life he's often found outwitting his masters using clever wordplay, but he's best known today as the supposed author of a series of fables that are some of the most enduringly popular works of Ancient Greek literature. Some modern scholars question whether he existed at all, but the body of work that has come down to us under his name gives us a rare glimpse of the popular culture of the Ancient World.

WITH

Pavlos Avlamis, Junior Research Fellow in Classics at Trinity College at the University of Oxford

Simon Goldhill, Professor of Greek Literature and Culture at the University of Cambridge

Lucy Grig, Senior Lecturer in Classics at the University of Edinburgh

Producer: Luke Mulhall.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 20 Nov 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2722</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59bg.mp3" length="31756666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20141120-1230.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59bg.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59bg.mp3" fileSize="31756666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2722" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b04pbq9l</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Brunel</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the Victorian engineer responsible for bridges, tunnels and railways still in use today more than 150 years after they were built. Brunel represented the cutting edge of technological innovation in Victorian Britain, and his life gives us a window onto the social changes that accompanied the Industrial Revolution. Yet his work was not always successful, and his innovative approach to engineering projects was often greeted with suspicion from investors. 

Guests:

Julia Elton, former President of the Newcomen Society for the History of Engineering and Technology

Ben Marsden, Senior Lecturer in the School of Divinity, History and Philosophy at the University of Aberdeen

Crosbie Smith, Professor of the History of Science at the University of Kent

Producer: Luke Mulhall.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Isambard Kingdom Brunel.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the Victorian engineer responsible for bridges, tunnels and railways still in use today more than 150 years after they were built. Brunel represented the cutting edge of technological innovation in Victorian Britain, and his life gives us a window onto the social changes that accompanied the Industrial Revolution. Yet his work was not always successful, and his innovative approach to engineering projects was often greeted with suspicion from investors. 

Guests:

Julia Elton, former President of the Newcomen Society for the History of Engineering and Technology

Ben Marsden, Senior Lecturer in the School of Divinity, History and Philosophy at the University of Aberdeen

Crosbie Smith, Professor of the History of Science at the University of Kent

Producer: Luke Mulhall.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 13 Nov 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2684</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59bn.mp3" length="31313333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20141113-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59bn.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59bn.mp3" fileSize="31313333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2684" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b04nvbp1</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Hatshepsut</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Egyptian pharaoh Hatshepsut, whose name means 'foremost of noble ladies'. She ruled Egypt from about 1479 - 1458 BC and some scholars argue that she was one of the most successful and influential pharaohs. When she came to the throne, Egypt was still recovering from a period of turbulence known as the Second Intermediate Period a few generations earlier. Hatshepsut reasserted Egyptian power by building up international trade and commissioned buildings considered masterpieces of Egyptian architecture. She also made significant changes to the ideology surrounding the pharaoh and the gods. However, following her death, her name was erased from the records and left out of ancient lists of Egyptian kings.

With:

Elizabeth Frood
Associate Professor of Egyptology at the University of Oxford

Kate Spence
Lecturer in Egyptian Archaeology at the University of Cambridge

Campbell Price
Curator of Egypt and Sudan at The Manchester Museum

Producer: Victoria Brignell.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the female Egyptian pharaoh Hatshepsut.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Egyptian pharaoh Hatshepsut, whose name means 'foremost of noble ladies'. She ruled Egypt from about 1479 - 1458 BC and some scholars argue that she was one of the most successful and influential pharaohs. When she came to the throne, Egypt was still recovering from a period of turbulence known as the Second Intermediate Period a few generations earlier. Hatshepsut reasserted Egyptian power by building up international trade and commissioned buildings considered masterpieces of Egyptian architecture. She also made significant changes to the ideology surrounding the pharaoh and the gods. However, following her death, her name was erased from the records and left out of ancient lists of Egyptian kings.

With:

Elizabeth Frood
Associate Professor of Egyptology at the University of Oxford

Kate Spence
Lecturer in Egyptian Archaeology at the University of Cambridge

Campbell Price
Curator of Egypt and Sudan at The Manchester Museum

Producer: Victoria Brignell.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 06 Nov 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2742</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59bv.mp3" length="31990000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20141106-1700.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59bv.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59bv.mp3" fileSize="31990000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2742" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b04n62jx</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Nuclear Fusion</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss nuclear fusion, the process that powers stars. In the 1920s physicists predicted that it might be possible to generate huge amounts of energy by fusing atomic nuclei together, a reaction requiring enormous temperatures and pressures. Today we know that this complex reaction is what keeps the Sun shining. Scientists have achieved fusion in the laboratory and in nuclear weapons; today it is seen as a likely future source of limitless and clean energy.

Guests:

Philippa Browning, Professor of Astrophysics at the University of Manchester

Steve Cowley, Chief Executive of the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority

Justin Wark, Professor of Physics and fellow of Trinity College at the University of Oxford

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the history and science of nuclear fusion.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss nuclear fusion, the process that powers stars. In the 1920s physicists predicted that it might be possible to generate huge amounts of energy by fusing atomic nuclei together, a reaction requiring enormous temperatures and pressures. Today we know that this complex reaction is what keeps the Sun shining. Scientists have achieved fusion in the laboratory and in nuclear weapons; today it is seen as a likely future source of limitless and clean energy.

Guests:

Philippa Browning, Professor of Astrophysics at the University of Manchester

Steve Cowley, Chief Executive of the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority

Justin Wark, Professor of Physics and fellow of Trinity College at the University of Oxford

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 30 Oct 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2815</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59c1.mp3" length="32841666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20141030-1145.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59c1.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59c1.mp3" fileSize="32841666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2815" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b04mgtdq</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Haitian Revolution</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Haitian Revolution. In 1791 an uprising began in the French colonial territory of St Domingue. Partly a consequence of the French Revolution and partly a backlash against the brutality of slave owners, it turned into a complex struggle involving not just the residents of the island but French, English and Spanish forces. By 1804 the former slaves had won, establishing the first independent state in Latin America and the first nation to be created as a result of a successful slave rebellion. But the revolution also created one of the world's most impoverished societies, a legacy which Haiti has struggled to escape.

Contributors

Kate Hodgson, Postdoctoral Research Fellow in French at the University of Liverpool

Tim Lockley, Reader in American Studies at the University of Warwick

Karen Salt, Fellow in History in the School of Language and Literature at the University of Aberdeen

Producer: Luke Mulhall.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Haitian Revolution of 1791-1804.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Haitian Revolution. In 1791 an uprising began in the French colonial territory of St Domingue. Partly a consequence of the French Revolution and partly a backlash against the brutality of slave owners, it turned into a complex struggle involving not just the residents of the island but French, English and Spanish forces. By 1804 the former slaves had won, establishing the first independent state in Latin America and the first nation to be created as a result of a successful slave rebellion. But the revolution also created one of the world's most impoverished societies, a legacy which Haiti has struggled to escape.

Contributors

Kate Hodgson, Postdoctoral Research Fellow in French at the University of Liverpool

Tim Lockley, Reader in American Studies at the University of Warwick

Karen Salt, Fellow in History in the School of Language and Literature at the University of Aberdeen

Producer: Luke Mulhall.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 23 Oct 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2801</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59cc.mp3" length="32678333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20141023-1155.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59cc.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59cc.mp3" fileSize="32678333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2801" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b04lsqgs</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Rudyard Kipling</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and work of Rudyard Kipling. Born in Bombay in 1865, Kipling has been described as the poet of Empire, celebrated for fictional works including Kim and The Jungle Book. Today his poem 'If--' remains one of the best known in the English language. Kipling was amongst the first writers in English to develop the short story as a literary form in its own right, and was the first British recipient of a Nobel Prize for Literature. A literary celebrity of the Edwardian era, Kipling's work for the Commonwealth War Graves Commission played a major role in Britain's cultural response to the First World War.

Contributors:

Howard Booth, Senior Lecturer in English Literature at the University of Manchester

Daniel Karlin, Winterstoke Professor of English Literature at the University of Bristol

Jan Montefiore, Professor of Twentieth Century English Literature at the University of Kent

Producer: Luke Mulhall.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and work of Rudyard Kipling.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and work of Rudyard Kipling. Born in Bombay in 1865, Kipling has been described as the poet of Empire, celebrated for fictional works including Kim and The Jungle Book. Today his poem 'If--' remains one of the best known in the English language. Kipling was amongst the first writers in English to develop the short story as a literary form in its own right, and was the first British recipient of a Nobel Prize for Literature. A literary celebrity of the Edwardian era, Kipling's work for the Commonwealth War Graves Commission played a major role in Britain's cultural response to the First World War.

Contributors:

Howard Booth, Senior Lecturer in English Literature at the University of Manchester

Daniel Karlin, Winterstoke Professor of English Literature at the University of Bristol

Jan Montefiore, Professor of Twentieth Century English Literature at the University of Kent

Producer: Luke Mulhall.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 16 Oct 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2744</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59ck.mp3" length="32013333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20141016-1255.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59ck.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59ck.mp3" fileSize="32013333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2744" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b04l3852</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Battle of Talas</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Battle of Talas, a significant encounter between Arab and Chinese forces which took place in central Asia in 751 AD. It brought together two mighty empires, the Abbasid Caliphate and the Tang Dynasty, and although not well known today the battle had profound consequences for the future of both civilisations. The Arabs won the confrontation, but the battle marks the point where the Islamic Empire halted its march eastwards, and the Chinese stopped their expansion to the west. It was also a point of cultural exchange: some historians believe that it was also the moment when the technology of paper manufacture found its way from China to the Western world.

GUESTS

Hilde de Weerdt, Professor of Chinese History at Leiden University

Michael Höckelmann, British Academy Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of History at King's College London

Hugh Kennedy, Professor of Arabic at SOAS, University of London

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Battle of Talas in AD751.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Battle of Talas, a significant encounter between Arab and Chinese forces which took place in central Asia in 751 AD. It brought together two mighty empires, the Abbasid Caliphate and the Tang Dynasty, and although not well known today the battle had profound consequences for the future of both civilisations. The Arabs won the confrontation, but the battle marks the point where the Islamic Empire halted its march eastwards, and the Chinese stopped their expansion to the west. It was also a point of cultural exchange: some historians believe that it was also the moment when the technology of paper manufacture found its way from China to the Western world.

GUESTS

Hilde de Weerdt, Professor of Chinese History at Leiden University

Michael Höckelmann, British Academy Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of History at King's College London

Hugh Kennedy, Professor of Arabic at SOAS, University of London

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 09 Oct 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2724</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59cp.mp3" length="31779999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20141009-1145.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59cp.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59cp.mp3" fileSize="31779999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2724" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b04kf8ps</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Julius Caesar</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life, work and reputation of Julius Caesar. Famously assassinated as he entered the Roman senate on the Ides of March, 44 BC, Caesar was an inspirational general who conquered much of Europe. He was a ruthless and canny politician who became dictator of Rome, and wrote The Gallic Wars, one of the most admired and studied works of Latin literature. Shakespeare is one of many later writers to have been fascinated by the figure of Julius Caesar.

With:

Christopher Pelling
Regius Professor of Greek at the University of Oxford

Catherine Steel
Professor of Classics at the University of Glasgow

Maria Wyke
Professor of Latin at University College London

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and reputation of Julius Caesar.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life, work and reputation of Julius Caesar. Famously assassinated as he entered the Roman senate on the Ides of March, 44 BC, Caesar was an inspirational general who conquered much of Europe. He was a ruthless and canny politician who became dictator of Rome, and wrote The Gallic Wars, one of the most admired and studied works of Latin literature. Shakespeare is one of many later writers to have been fascinated by the figure of Julius Caesar.

With:

Christopher Pelling
Regius Professor of Greek at the University of Oxford

Catherine Steel
Professor of Classics at the University of Glasgow

Maria Wyke
Professor of Latin at University College London

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 02 Oct 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2790</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59cy.mp3" length="32549999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20141002-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59cy.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59cy.mp3" fileSize="32549999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2790" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b04jlygw</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>e</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Euler's number, also known as e. First discovered in the seventeenth century by the Swiss mathematician Jacob Bernoulli when he was studying compound interest, e is now recognised as one of the most important and interesting numbers in mathematics. Roughly equal to 2.718, e is useful in studying many everyday situations, from personal savings to epidemics. It also features in Euler's Identity, sometimes described as the most beautiful equation ever written. 

With:

Colva Roney-Dougal
Reader in Pure Mathematics at the University of St Andrews

June Barrow-Green
Senior Lecturer in the History of Maths at the Open University

Vicky Neale
Whitehead Lecturer at the Mathematical Institute and Balliol College at the University of Oxford

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Euler's number, e.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Euler's number, also known as e. First discovered in the seventeenth century by the Swiss mathematician Jacob Bernoulli when he was studying compound interest, e is now recognised as one of the most important and interesting numbers in mathematics. Roughly equal to 2.718, e is useful in studying many everyday situations, from personal savings to epidemics. It also features in Euler's Identity, sometimes described as the most beautiful equation ever written. 

With:

Colva Roney-Dougal
Reader in Pure Mathematics at the University of St Andrews

June Barrow-Green
Senior Lecturer in the History of Maths at the Open University

Vicky Neale
Whitehead Lecturer at the Mathematical Institute and Balliol College at the University of Oxford

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 25 Sep 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2719</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59d5.mp3" length="31721666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140925-1205.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59d5.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59d5.mp3" fileSize="31721666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2719" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b04hz49f</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Sun</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Sun. The object that gives the Earth its light and heat is a massive ball of gas and plasma 93 million miles away. Thanks to the nuclear fusion reactions taking place at its core, the Sun has been shining for four and a half billion years. Its structure, and the processes that keep it burning, have fascinated astronomers for centuries. After the invention of the telescope it became apparent that the Sun is not a placid, steadily shining body but is subject to periodic changes in its appearance and eruptions of dramatic violence, some of which can affect us here on Earth. Recent space missions have revealed fascinating new insights into our nearest star.

With:

Carolin Crawford
Gresham Professor of Astronomy and Fellow of Emmanuel College, Cambridge

Yvonne Elsworth
Poynting Professor of Physics at the University of Birmingham

Louise Harra
Professor of Solar Physics at UCL Mullard Space Science Laboratory

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the science of the sun, source of all our energy.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Sun. The object that gives the Earth its light and heat is a massive ball of gas and plasma 93 million miles away. Thanks to the nuclear fusion reactions taking place at its core, the Sun has been shining for four and a half billion years. Its structure, and the processes that keep it burning, have fascinated astronomers for centuries. After the invention of the telescope it became apparent that the Sun is not a placid, steadily shining body but is subject to periodic changes in its appearance and eruptions of dramatic violence, some of which can affect us here on Earth. Recent space missions have revealed fascinating new insights into our nearest star.

With:

Carolin Crawford
Gresham Professor of Astronomy and Fellow of Emmanuel College, Cambridge

Yvonne Elsworth
Poynting Professor of Physics at the University of Birmingham

Louise Harra
Professor of Solar Physics at UCL Mullard Space Science Laboratory

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 10 Jul 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2847</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59dl.mp3" length="33215000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140710-1120.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59dl.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59dl.mp3" fileSize="33215000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2847" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b048nlfb</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Mrs Dalloway</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Virginia Woolf's novel Mrs Dalloway. First published in 1925, it charts a single day in the life of Clarissa Dalloway, a prosperous member of London society, as she prepares to throw a party. Writing in her diary during the writing of the book, Woolf explained what she had set out to do: 'I want to give life and death, sanity and insanity. I want to criticize the social system, and to show it at work at its most intense.' Celebrated for its innovative narrative technique and distillation of many of the preoccupations of 1920s Britain, Mrs Dalloway is now seen as a landmark of twentieth-century fiction, and one of the finest products of literary modernism.

With:

Professor Dame Hermione Lee
President of Wolfson College, Oxford

Jane Goldman
Reader in English Literature at the University of Glasgow

Kathryn Simpson
Senior Lecturer in English Literature at Cardiff Metropolitan University.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Virginia Woolf's novel Mrs Dalloway.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Virginia Woolf's novel Mrs Dalloway. First published in 1925, it charts a single day in the life of Clarissa Dalloway, a prosperous member of London society, as she prepares to throw a party. Writing in her diary during the writing of the book, Woolf explained what she had set out to do: 'I want to give life and death, sanity and insanity. I want to criticize the social system, and to show it at work at its most intense.' Celebrated for its innovative narrative technique and distillation of many of the preoccupations of 1920s Britain, Mrs Dalloway is now seen as a landmark of twentieth-century fiction, and one of the finest products of literary modernism.

With:

Professor Dame Hermione Lee
President of Wolfson College, Oxford

Jane Goldman
Reader in English Literature at the University of Glasgow

Kathryn Simpson
Senior Lecturer in English Literature at Cardiff Metropolitan University.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Jul 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2730</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59dy.mp3" length="31849999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140703-1205.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59dy.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59dy.mp3" fileSize="31849999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2730" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b048033q</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Hildegard of Bingen</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss one of the most remarkable figures of the Middle Ages, Hildegard of Bingen. The abbess of a Benedictine convent, Hildegard experienced a series of mystical visions which she documented in her writings. She was an influential person in the religious world and much of her extensive correspondence with popes, monarchs and other important figures survives. Hildegard was also celebrated for her wide-ranging scholarship, which as well as theology covered the natural world, science and medicine. Officially recognised as a saint by the Catholic Church in 2012, Hildegard is also one of the earliest known composers. Since their rediscovery in recent decades her compositions have been widely recorded and performed.

With:

Miri Rubin
Professor of Medieval and Early Modern History and Head of the School of History at Queen Mary, University of London

William Flynn
Lecturer in Medieval Latin at the Institute for Medieval Studies at the University of Leeds

Almut Suerbaum
Professor of Medieval German and Fellow of Somerville College, Oxford.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the medieval writer and mystic Hildegard of Bingen.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss one of the most remarkable figures of the Middle Ages, Hildegard of Bingen. The abbess of a Benedictine convent, Hildegard experienced a series of mystical visions which she documented in her writings. She was an influential person in the religious world and much of her extensive correspondence with popes, monarchs and other important figures survives. Hildegard was also celebrated for her wide-ranging scholarship, which as well as theology covered the natural world, science and medicine. Officially recognised as a saint by the Catholic Church in 2012, Hildegard is also one of the earliest known composers. Since their rediscovery in recent decades her compositions have been widely recorded and performed.

With:

Miri Rubin
Professor of Medieval and Early Modern History and Head of the School of History at Queen Mary, University of London

William Flynn
Lecturer in Medieval Latin at the Institute for Medieval Studies at the University of Leeds

Almut Suerbaum
Professor of Medieval German and Fellow of Somerville College, Oxford.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 26 Jun 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2673</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59fy.mp3" length="31184999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140626-1155.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59fy.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59fy.mp3" fileSize="31184999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2673" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b047c312</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Philosophy of Solitude</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the philosophy of solitude. The state of being alone can arise for many different reasons: imprisonment, exile or personal choice. It can be prompted by religious belief, personal necessity or a philosophical need for solitary contemplation. Many thinkers have dealt with the subject, from Plato and Aristotle to Hannah Arendt. It's a philosophical tradition that takes in medieval religious mystics, the work of Montaigne and Adam Smith, and the great American poets of solitude Thoreau and Emerson.

With:

Melissa Lane
Professor of Politics at Princeton University

Simon Blackburn
Professor of Philosophy at the New College of the Humanities and Fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge

John Haldane
Professor of Philosophy at the University of St Andrews

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the philosophy of solitude.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the philosophy of solitude. The state of being alone can arise for many different reasons: imprisonment, exile or personal choice. It can be prompted by religious belief, personal necessity or a philosophical need for solitary contemplation. Many thinkers have dealt with the subject, from Plato and Aristotle to Hannah Arendt. It's a philosophical tradition that takes in medieval religious mystics, the work of Montaigne and Adam Smith, and the great American poets of solitude Thoreau and Emerson.

With:

Melissa Lane
Professor of Politics at Princeton University

Simon Blackburn
Professor of Philosophy at the New College of the Humanities and Fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge

John Haldane
Professor of Philosophy at the University of St Andrews

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 19 Jun 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2826</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59gp.mp3" length="32970000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140619-1120.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59gp.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59gp.mp3" fileSize="32970000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2826" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b046ntnz</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Robert Boyle</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and work of Robert Boyle, a pioneering scientist and a founder member of the Royal Society. Born in Ireland in 1627, Boyle was one of the first natural philosophers to conduct rigorous experiments, laid the foundations of modern chemistry and derived Boyle's Law, describing the physical properties of gases. In addition to his experimental work he left a substantial body of writings about philosophy and religion; his piety was one of the most important factors in his intellectual activities, prompting a celebrated dispute with his contemporary Thomas Hobbes.

With:

Simon Schaffer
Professor of the History of Science at the University of Cambridge

Michael Hunter
Emeritus Professor of History at Birkbeck College, University of London

Anna Marie Roos
Senior Lecturer in the History of Science and Medicine at the University of Lincoln

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the work of the pioneering scientist Robert Boyle.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and work of Robert Boyle, a pioneering scientist and a founder member of the Royal Society. Born in Ireland in 1627, Boyle was one of the first natural philosophers to conduct rigorous experiments, laid the foundations of modern chemistry and derived Boyle's Law, describing the physical properties of gases. In addition to his experimental work he left a substantial body of writings about philosophy and religion; his piety was one of the most important factors in his intellectual activities, prompting a celebrated dispute with his contemporary Thomas Hobbes.

With:

Simon Schaffer
Professor of the History of Science at the University of Cambridge

Michael Hunter
Emeritus Professor of History at Birkbeck College, University of London

Anna Marie Roos
Senior Lecturer in the History of Science and Medicine at the University of Lincoln

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 12 Jun 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2796</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59h4.mp3" length="32619999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140612-1640.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59h4.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59h4.mp3" fileSize="32619999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2796" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b0460p63</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Bluestockings</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Bluestockings. Around the middle of the eighteenth century a small group of intellectual women began to meet regularly to discuss literature and other matters, inviting some of the leading thinkers of the day to take part in informal salons. In an age when women were not expected to be highly educated, the Bluestockings were sometimes regarded with suspicion or even hostility. But prominent members such as Elizabeth Montagu - known as 'the Queen of the Bluestockings', and author of an influential essay about Shakespeare - and the classicist Elizabeth Carter were highly regarded for their scholarship. Their accomplishments led to far greater acceptance of women as the intellectual equal of men, and furthered the cause of female education.

With:

Karen O'Brien
Vice-Principal and Professor of English at King's College London

Elizabeth Eger
Reader in English Literature at King's College London

Nicole Pohl
Reader in English Literature at Oxford Brookes University

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the 18th-century Bluestocking Society.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Bluestockings. Around the middle of the eighteenth century a small group of intellectual women began to meet regularly to discuss literature and other matters, inviting some of the leading thinkers of the day to take part in informal salons. In an age when women were not expected to be highly educated, the Bluestockings were sometimes regarded with suspicion or even hostility. But prominent members such as Elizabeth Montagu - known as 'the Queen of the Bluestockings', and author of an influential essay about Shakespeare - and the classicist Elizabeth Carter were highly regarded for their scholarship. Their accomplishments led to far greater acceptance of women as the intellectual equal of men, and furthered the cause of female education.

With:

Karen O'Brien
Vice-Principal and Professor of English at King's College London

Elizabeth Eger
Reader in English Literature at King's College London

Nicole Pohl
Reader in English Literature at Oxford Brookes University

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 05 Jun 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2792</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59hh.mp3" length="32573333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140605-1150.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59hh.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59hh.mp3" fileSize="32573333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2792" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b045c0h9</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Talmud</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the history and contents of the Talmud, one of the most important texts of Judaism. The Talmud was probably written down over a period of several hundred years, beginning in the 2nd century. It contains the authoritative text of the traditional Jewish oral law, and also an account of early Rabbinic discussion of, and commentary on, these laws. In later centuries scholars wrote important commentaries on these texts, which remain central to most strands of modern Judaism.

With:

Philip Alexander
Emeritus Professor of Jewish Studies at the University of Manchester

Rabbi Norman Solomon
Former Lecturer at the Oxford Centre for Jewish and Hebrew Studies

Laliv Clenman
Lecturer in Rabbinic Literature at Leo Baeck College and a Visiting Lecturer at the Department of Theology and Religious Studies, King's College London

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Talmud, a major text of rabbinical Judaism.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the history and contents of the Talmud, one of the most important texts of Judaism. The Talmud was probably written down over a period of several hundred years, beginning in the 2nd century. It contains the authoritative text of the traditional Jewish oral law, and also an account of early Rabbinic discussion of, and commentary on, these laws. In later centuries scholars wrote important commentaries on these texts, which remain central to most strands of modern Judaism.

With:

Philip Alexander
Emeritus Professor of Jewish Studies at the University of Manchester

Rabbi Norman Solomon
Former Lecturer at the Oxford Centre for Jewish and Hebrew Studies

Laliv Clenman
Lecturer in Rabbinic Literature at Leo Baeck College and a Visiting Lecturer at the Department of Theology and Religious Studies, King's College London

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 29 May 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2868</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59hy.mp3" length="33459999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140529-1210.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59hy.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59hy.mp3" fileSize="33459999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2868" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b044j7pd</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam. In 1859 the poet Edward FitzGerald published a long poem based on the verses of the 11th-century Persian scholar Omar Khayyam. Not a single copy was sold in the first few months after the work's publication, but after it came to the notice of members of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood it became enormously influential. Although only loosely based on the original, the Rubaiyat made Khayyam the best-known Eastern poet in the English-speaking world. FitzGerald's version is itself one of the most admired works of Victorian literature, praised and imitated by many later writers.

With:

Charles Melville
Professor of Persian History at the University of Cambridge

Daniel Karlin
Winterstoke Professor of English Literature at the University of Bristol

Kirstie Blair
Professor of English Studies at the University of Stirling

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam. In 1859 the poet Edward FitzGerald published a long poem based on the verses of the 11th-century Persian scholar Omar Khayyam. Not a single copy was sold in the first few months after the work's publication, but after it came to the notice of members of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood it became enormously influential. Although only loosely based on the original, the Rubaiyat made Khayyam the best-known Eastern poet in the English-speaking world. FitzGerald's version is itself one of the most admired works of Victorian literature, praised and imitated by many later writers.

With:

Charles Melville
Professor of Persian History at the University of Cambridge

Daniel Karlin
Winterstoke Professor of English Literature at the University of Bristol

Kirstie Blair
Professor of English Studies at the University of Stirling

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 22 May 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2827</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59j4.mp3" length="32981666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140522-1145.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59j4.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59j4.mp3" fileSize="32981666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2827" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b043xpkd</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Photosynthesis</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss photosynthesis, the process by which green plants and many other organisms use sunlight to synthesise organic molecules. Photosynthesis arose very early in evolutionary history and has been a crucial driver of life on Earth. In addition to providing most of the food consumed by organisms on the planet, it is also responsible for maintaining atmospheric oxygen levels, and is thus almost certainly the most important chemical process ever discovered.

With:

Nick Lane
Reader in Evolutionary Biochemistry at University College London

Sandra Knapp
Botanist at the Natural History Museum

John Allen
Professor of Biochemistry at Queen Mary, University of London.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss photosynthesis.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss photosynthesis, the process by which green plants and many other organisms use sunlight to synthesise organic molecules. Photosynthesis arose very early in evolutionary history and has been a crucial driver of life on Earth. In addition to providing most of the food consumed by organisms on the planet, it is also responsible for maintaining atmospheric oxygen levels, and is thus almost certainly the most important chemical process ever discovered.

With:

Nick Lane
Reader in Evolutionary Biochemistry at University College London

Sandra Knapp
Botanist at the Natural History Museum

John Allen
Professor of Biochemistry at Queen Mary, University of London.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 15 May 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2807</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59jd.mp3" length="32748333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140515-1145.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59jd.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59jd.mp3" fileSize="32748333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2807" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b0435jyv</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Sino-Japanese War</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Sino-Japanese War of 1937-45. After several years of rising tension, and the Japanese occupation of Manchuria, full-scale war between Japan and China broke out in the summer of 1937. The Japanese captured many major Chinese ports and cities, but met with fierce resistance, despite internal political divisions on the Chinese side. When the Americans entered the war following the bombing of Pearl Harbor, the Japanese found themselves fighting on several fronts simultaneously, and finally capitulated in August 1945. This notoriously brutal conflict left millions dead and had far-reaching consequences for international relations in Asia.

With:

Rana Mitter
Professor of the History and Politics of Modern China at the University of Oxford

Barak Kushner
Senior Lecturer in Japanese History at the University of Cambridge

Tehyun Ma
Lecturer in Chinese History at the University of Exeter

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Second Sino-Japanese War.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Sino-Japanese War of 1937-45. After several years of rising tension, and the Japanese occupation of Manchuria, full-scale war between Japan and China broke out in the summer of 1937. The Japanese captured many major Chinese ports and cities, but met with fierce resistance, despite internal political divisions on the Chinese side. When the Americans entered the war following the bombing of Pearl Harbor, the Japanese found themselves fighting on several fronts simultaneously, and finally capitulated in August 1945. This notoriously brutal conflict left millions dead and had far-reaching consequences for international relations in Asia.

With:

Rana Mitter
Professor of the History and Politics of Modern China at the University of Oxford

Barak Kushner
Senior Lecturer in Japanese History at the University of Cambridge

Tehyun Ma
Lecturer in Chinese History at the University of Exeter

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 08 May 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2801</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59jt.mp3" length="32678333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140508-1145.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59jt.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59jt.mp3" fileSize="32678333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2801" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b042ldyq</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Tale of Sinuhe</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss The Tale of Sinuhe, one of the most celebrated works of ancient Egyptian literature. Written around four thousand years ago, the poem narrates the story of an Egyptian official who is exiled to Syria before returning to his homeland some years later. The number of versions of the poem, which is known from several surviving papyri and inscriptions, suggests that it was seen as an important literary work; although the story is set against a backdrop of real historical events, most scholars believe that the poem is a work of fiction.

With:

Richard Parkinson
Professor of Egyptology and Fellow of Queen's College at the University of Oxford

Roland Enmarch
Senior Lecturer in Egyptology at the University of Liverpool.

Aidan Dodson
Senior Research Fellow in the Department of Archaeology and Anthropology at the University of Bristol

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the ancient Egyptian poem The Tale of Sinuhe.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss The Tale of Sinuhe, one of the most celebrated works of ancient Egyptian literature. Written around four thousand years ago, the poem narrates the story of an Egyptian official who is exiled to Syria before returning to his homeland some years later. The number of versions of the poem, which is known from several surviving papyri and inscriptions, suggests that it was seen as an important literary work; although the story is set against a backdrop of real historical events, most scholars believe that the poem is a work of fiction.

With:

Richard Parkinson
Professor of Egyptology and Fellow of Queen's College at the University of Oxford

Roland Enmarch
Senior Lecturer in Egyptology at the University of Liverpool.

Aidan Dodson
Senior Research Fellow in the Department of Archaeology and Anthropology at the University of Bristol

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 01 May 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2829</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59k0.mp3" length="33004999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140501-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59k0.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59k0.mp3" fileSize="33004999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2829" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b041ybj3</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Tristram Shandy</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Laurence Sterne's novel Tristram Shandy. Sterne's comic masterpiece is an extravagantly inventive work which was hugely popular when first published in 1759. Its often bawdy humour, and numerous digressions, are combined with bold literary experiment, such as a page printed entirely black to mark the death of one of the novel's characters. Dr Johnson wrote that &quot;Nothing odd will do long. Tristram Shandy did not last&quot; - but two hundred and fifty years after the book's publication, Tristram Shandy remains one of the most influential and widely admired books of the eighteenth century.

With:

Judith Hawley
Professor of Eighteenth-Century Literature at Royal Holloway, University of London

John Mullan
Professor of English at University College London

Mary Newbould
Bowman Supervisor in English at Wolfson College, University of Cambridge.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Laurence Sterne's comic novel Tristram Shandy.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Laurence Sterne's novel Tristram Shandy. Sterne's comic masterpiece is an extravagantly inventive work which was hugely popular when first published in 1759. Its often bawdy humour, and numerous digressions, are combined with bold literary experiment, such as a page printed entirely black to mark the death of one of the novel's characters. Dr Johnson wrote that &quot;Nothing odd will do long. Tristram Shandy did not last&quot; - but two hundred and fifty years after the book's publication, Tristram Shandy remains one of the most influential and widely admired books of the eighteenth century.

With:

Judith Hawley
Professor of Eighteenth-Century Literature at Royal Holloway, University of London

John Mullan
Professor of English at University College London

Mary Newbould
Bowman Supervisor in English at Wolfson College, University of Cambridge.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 24 Apr 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2845</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59k9.mp3" length="33191666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140424-1215.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59k9.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59k9.mp3" fileSize="33191666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2845" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b0418phf</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Domesday Book</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Domesday Book, a vast survey of the land and property of much of England and Wales completed in 1086. Twenty years after the Battle of Hastings, William the Conqueror sent officials to most of his new territories to compile a list of land holdings and to gather information about settlements, the people who lived there and even their farm animals. Almost without parallel in European history, the resulting document was of immense importance for many centuries, and remains a central source for medieval historians.

With:

Stephen Baxter
Reader in Medieval History at Kings College London

Elisabeth van Houts
Honorary Professor of Medieval European History at the University of Cambridge

David Bates
Professorial Fellow in Medieval History at the University of East Anglia

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Domesday Book.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Domesday Book, a vast survey of the land and property of much of England and Wales completed in 1086. Twenty years after the Battle of Hastings, William the Conqueror sent officials to most of his new territories to compile a list of land holdings and to gather information about settlements, the people who lived there and even their farm animals. Almost without parallel in European history, the resulting document was of immense importance for many centuries, and remains a central source for medieval historians.

With:

Stephen Baxter
Reader in Medieval History at Kings College London

Elisabeth van Houts
Honorary Professor of Medieval European History at the University of Cambridge

David Bates
Professorial Fellow in Medieval History at the University of East Anglia

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 17 Apr 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2864</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59km.mp3" length="33413333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140417-1145.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59km.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59km.mp3" fileSize="33413333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2864" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b040llvb</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Strabo's Geographica</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Strabo's Geographica. Written almost exactly two thousand years ago by a Greek scholar living in Rome, the Geographica is an ambitious attempt to describe the entire world known to the Romans and Greeks at that time. Strabo seems to have based his book on accounts of distant lands given to him by contemporary travellers and imperial administrators, and on earlier works of scholarship by other Greek writers. One of the earliest systematic works of geography, Strabo's book offers a revealing insight into the state of ancient scholarship, and remained influential for many centuries after the author's death. 

With:

Paul Cartledge
AG Leventis Professor of Greek Culture at the University of Cambridge

Maria Pretzler
Senior Lecturer in Ancient History at Swansea University

Benet Salway
Senior Lecturer in Ancient History at UCL

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Strabo's Geographica, an early work of geography.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Strabo's Geographica. Written almost exactly two thousand years ago by a Greek scholar living in Rome, the Geographica is an ambitious attempt to describe the entire world known to the Romans and Greeks at that time. Strabo seems to have based his book on accounts of distant lands given to him by contemporary travellers and imperial administrators, and on earlier works of scholarship by other Greek writers. One of the earliest systematic works of geography, Strabo's book offers a revealing insight into the state of ancient scholarship, and remained influential for many centuries after the author's death. 

With:

Paul Cartledge
AG Leventis Professor of Greek Culture at the University of Cambridge

Maria Pretzler
Senior Lecturer in Ancient History at Swansea University

Benet Salway
Senior Lecturer in Ancient History at UCL

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 10 Apr 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2867</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59kt.mp3" length="33448333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140410-1150.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59kt.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59kt.mp3" fileSize="33448333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2867" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03zr11t</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>States of Matter</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the science of matter and the states in which it can exist. Most people are familiar with the idea that a substance like water can exist in solid, liquid and gaseous forms. But as much as 99% of the matter in the universe is now believed to exist in a fourth state, plasma. Today scientists recognise a number of other exotic states or phases, such as glasses, gels and liquid crystals - many of them with useful properties that can be exploited.

With:

Andrea Sella
Professor of Chemistry at University College London

Athene Donald
Professor of Experimental Physics at the University of Cambridge

Justin Wark
Professor of Physics and Fellow of Trinity College at the University of Oxford

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the states of matter, from solids to plasmas.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the science of matter and the states in which it can exist. Most people are familiar with the idea that a substance like water can exist in solid, liquid and gaseous forms. But as much as 99% of the matter in the universe is now believed to exist in a fourth state, plasma. Today scientists recognise a number of other exotic states or phases, such as glasses, gels and liquid crystals - many of them with useful properties that can be exploited.

With:

Andrea Sella
Professor of Chemistry at University College London

Athene Donald
Professor of Experimental Physics at the University of Cambridge

Justin Wark
Professor of Physics and Fellow of Trinity College at the University of Oxford

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Apr 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2827</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59lc.mp3" length="32981666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140403-1150.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59lc.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59lc.mp3" fileSize="32981666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2827" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03zdbr4</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Weber's The Protestant Ethic</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Max Weber's book the Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism. Published in 1905, Weber's essay proposed that Protestantism had been a significant factor in the emergence of capitalism, making an explicit connection between religious ideas and economic systems. Weber suggested that Calvinism, with its emphasis on personal asceticism and the merits of hard work, had created an ethic which had enabled the success of capitalism in Protestant countries. Weber's essay has come in for some criticism since he published the work, but is still seen as one of the seminal texts of twentieth-century sociology.

With:

Peter Ghosh
Fellow in History at St Anne's College, Oxford

Sam Whimster
Honorary Professor in Sociology at the University of New South Wales

Linda Woodhead
Professor of Sociology of Religion at Lancaster University.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Weber's The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Max Weber's book the Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism. Published in 1905, Weber's essay proposed that Protestantism had been a significant factor in the emergence of capitalism, making an explicit connection between religious ideas and economic systems. Weber suggested that Calvinism, with its emphasis on personal asceticism and the merits of hard work, had created an ethic which had enabled the success of capitalism in Protestant countries. Weber's essay has come in for some criticism since he published the work, but is still seen as one of the seminal texts of twentieth-century sociology.

With:

Peter Ghosh
Fellow in History at St Anne's College, Oxford

Sam Whimster
Honorary Professor in Sociology at the University of New South Wales

Linda Woodhead
Professor of Sociology of Religion at Lancaster University.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 27 Mar 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>3040</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59lw.mp3" length="35466666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140327-1150.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59lw.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59lw.mp3" fileSize="35466666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="3040" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03yqj31</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Bishop Berkeley</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the work of George Berkeley, an Anglican bishop who was one of the most important philosophers of the eighteenth century. Bishop Berkeley believed that objects only truly exist in the mind of somebody who perceives them - an idea he called immaterialism. His interests and writing ranged widely, from the science of optics to religion and the medicinal benefits of tar water. His work on the nature of perception was a spur to many later thinkers, including David Hume and Immanuel Kant. The clarity of Berkeley's writing, and his ability to pose a profound problem in an easily understood form, has made him one of the most admired early modern thinkers.

With:

Peter Millican
Gilbert Ryle Fellow and Professor of Philosophy at Hertford College, Oxford

Tom Stoneham
Professor of Philosophy at the University of York

Michela Massimi
Senior Lecturer in Philosophy of Science at the University of Edinburgh.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the 18th-century philosopher George Berkeley.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the work of George Berkeley, an Anglican bishop who was one of the most important philosophers of the eighteenth century. Bishop Berkeley believed that objects only truly exist in the mind of somebody who perceives them - an idea he called immaterialism. His interests and writing ranged widely, from the science of optics to religion and the medicinal benefits of tar water. His work on the nature of perception was a spur to many later thinkers, including David Hume and Immanuel Kant. The clarity of Berkeley's writing, and his ability to pose a profound problem in an easily understood form, has made him one of the most admired early modern thinkers.

With:

Peter Millican
Gilbert Ryle Fellow and Professor of Philosophy at Hertford College, Oxford

Tom Stoneham
Professor of Philosophy at the University of York

Michela Massimi
Senior Lecturer in Philosophy of Science at the University of Edinburgh.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 20 Mar 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2849</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59m1.mp3" length="33238333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140320-1220.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59m1.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59m1.mp3" fileSize="33238333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2849" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03y36vr</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Trinity</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Trinity. The idea that God is a single entity, but one known in three distinct forms - Father, Son and Holy Spirit - has been a central belief for most Christians since the earliest years of the religion. The doctrine was often controversial in the early years of the Church, until clarified by the Council of Nicaea in the late 4th century. Later thinkers including St Augustine and Thomas Aquinas recognised that this religious mystery posed profound theological questions, such as whether the three persons of the Trinity always acted together, and whether they were of equal status. The Trinity's influence on Christian thought and practice is considerable, although it is interpreted in different ways by different Christian traditions. 

With:

Janet Soskice
Professor of Philosophical Theology at the University of Cambridge and a Fellow of Jesus College

Martin Palmer
Director of the International Consultancy on Religion, Education, and Culture

The Reverend Graham Ward
Regius Professor of Divinity at the University of Oxford and a Canon of Christ Church.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Trinity, a central doctrine of Christianity.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Trinity. The idea that God is a single entity, but one known in three distinct forms - Father, Son and Holy Spirit - has been a central belief for most Christians since the earliest years of the religion. The doctrine was often controversial in the early years of the Church, until clarified by the Council of Nicaea in the late 4th century. Later thinkers including St Augustine and Thomas Aquinas recognised that this religious mystery posed profound theological questions, such as whether the three persons of the Trinity always acted together, and whether they were of equal status. The Trinity's influence on Christian thought and practice is considerable, although it is interpreted in different ways by different Christian traditions. 

With:

Janet Soskice
Professor of Philosophical Theology at the University of Cambridge and a Fellow of Jesus College

Martin Palmer
Director of the International Consultancy on Religion, Education, and Culture

The Reverend Graham Ward
Regius Professor of Divinity at the University of Oxford and a Canon of Christ Church.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 13 Mar 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2531</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59m8.mp3" length="29528333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140313-1045.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59m8.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59m8.mp3" fileSize="29528333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2531" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03xgl3m</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Spartacus</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life of Spartacus, the gladiator who led a major slave rebellion against the Roman Republic in the 1st century BC. He was an accomplished military leader, and the campaign he led contributed significantly to the instability of the Roman state in this period. Spartacus was celebrated by some ancient historians and reviled by others, and became a hero to revolutionaries in 19th-century Europe. Modern perceptions of his character have been influenced by Stanley Kubrick's 1960 film - but ancient sources give a rather more complex picture of Spartacus and the aims of his rebellion.

With:

Mary Beard
Professor of Classics at the University of Cambridge

Maria Wyke
Professor of Latin at University College, London

Theresa Urbainczyk
Associate Professor of Classics at University College, Dublin.

Producer: Victoria Brignell.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Roman gladiator and rebel leader Spartacus.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life of Spartacus, the gladiator who led a major slave rebellion against the Roman Republic in the 1st century BC. He was an accomplished military leader, and the campaign he led contributed significantly to the instability of the Roman state in this period. Spartacus was celebrated by some ancient historians and reviled by others, and became a hero to revolutionaries in 19th-century Europe. Modern perceptions of his character have been influenced by Stanley Kubrick's 1960 film - but ancient sources give a rather more complex picture of Spartacus and the aims of his rebellion.

With:

Mary Beard
Professor of Classics at the University of Cambridge

Maria Wyke
Professor of Latin at University College, London

Theresa Urbainczyk
Associate Professor of Classics at University College, Dublin.

Producer: Victoria Brignell.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 06 Mar 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2519</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59mg.mp3" length="29388333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140306-1100.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59mg.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59mg.mp3" fileSize="29388333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2519" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03wq2p3</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Eye</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the eye. Humans have been attempting to understand the workings and significance of the organ for at least 2500 years. Some ancient philosophers believed that the eye enabled creatures to see by emitting its own light. The function and structures of the eye became an area of particular interest to doctors in the Islamic Golden Age. In Renaissance Europe the work of thinkers including Kepler and Descartes revolutionised thinking about how the organ worked, but it took several hundred years for the eye to be thoroughly understood. Eyes have long attracted more than purely scientific interest, known even today as the 'windows on the soul'.

With:

Patricia Fara
Senior Tutor of Clare College, University of Cambridge

William Ayliffe
Gresham Professor of Physic at Gresham College

Robert Iliffe
Professor of Intellectual History and History of Science at the University of Sussex

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the history of ideas about the eye and how it works.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the eye. Humans have been attempting to understand the workings and significance of the organ for at least 2500 years. Some ancient philosophers believed that the eye enabled creatures to see by emitting its own light. The function and structures of the eye became an area of particular interest to doctors in the Islamic Golden Age. In Renaissance Europe the work of thinkers including Kepler and Descartes revolutionised thinking about how the organ worked, but it took several hundred years for the eye to be thoroughly understood. Eyes have long attracted more than purely scientific interest, known even today as the 'windows on the soul'.

With:

Patricia Fara
Senior Tutor of Clare College, University of Cambridge

William Ayliffe
Gresham Professor of Physic at Gresham College

Robert Iliffe
Professor of Intellectual History and History of Science at the University of Sussex

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 27 Feb 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2531</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59mv.mp3" length="29528333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140227-1100.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59mv.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59mv.mp3" fileSize="29528333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2531" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03w2w19</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Social Darwinism</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Social Darwinism. After the publication of Charles Darwin's masterpiece On the Origin of Species in 1859, some thinkers argued that Darwin's ideas about evolution could also be applied to human society. One thinker particularly associated with this movement was Darwin's near-contemporary Herbert Spencer, who coined the phrase 'survival of the fittest'. He argued that competition among humans was beneficial, because it ensured that only the healthiest and most intelligent individuals would succeed. Social Darwinism remained influential for several generations, although its association with eugenics and later adoption as an ideological position by Fascist regimes ensured its eventual downfall from intellectual respectability.

With:

Adam Kuper
Centennial Professor of Anthropology at the LSE, University of London

Gregory Radick
Professor of History and Philosophy of Science at the University of Leeds

Charlotte Sleigh
Reader in the History of Science at the University of Kent.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Social Darwinism.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Social Darwinism. After the publication of Charles Darwin's masterpiece On the Origin of Species in 1859, some thinkers argued that Darwin's ideas about evolution could also be applied to human society. One thinker particularly associated with this movement was Darwin's near-contemporary Herbert Spencer, who coined the phrase 'survival of the fittest'. He argued that competition among humans was beneficial, because it ensured that only the healthiest and most intelligent individuals would succeed. Social Darwinism remained influential for several generations, although its association with eugenics and later adoption as an ideological position by Fascist regimes ensured its eventual downfall from intellectual respectability.

With:

Adam Kuper
Centennial Professor of Anthropology at the LSE, University of London

Gregory Radick
Professor of History and Philosophy of Science at the University of Leeds

Charlotte Sleigh
Reader in the History of Science at the University of Kent.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 20 Feb 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2501</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59n2.mp3" length="29178333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140220-1100.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59n2.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59n2.mp3" fileSize="29178333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2501" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03vgq1q</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Chivalry</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss chivalry, the moral code observed by knights of the Middle Ages. Chivalry originated in the military practices of aristocratic French and German soldiers, but developed into an elaborate system governing many different aspects of knightly behaviour. It influenced the conduct of medieval military campaigns and also had important religious and literary dimensions. It gave rise to the phenomenon of courtly love, the subject of much romance literature, as well as to the practice of heraldry. The remnants of the chivalric tradition linger in European culture even today.

Miri Rubin
Professor of Medieval and Early Modern History and Head of the School of History at Queen Mary, University of London

Matthew Strickland
Professor of Medieval History at the University of Glasgow

Laura Ashe
Associate Professor in English at the University of Oxford and Fellow of Worcester College

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss medieval chivalry.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss chivalry, the moral code observed by knights of the Middle Ages. Chivalry originated in the military practices of aristocratic French and German soldiers, but developed into an elaborate system governing many different aspects of knightly behaviour. It influenced the conduct of medieval military campaigns and also had important religious and literary dimensions. It gave rise to the phenomenon of courtly love, the subject of much romance literature, as well as to the practice of heraldry. The remnants of the chivalric tradition linger in European culture even today.

Miri Rubin
Professor of Medieval and Early Modern History and Head of the School of History at Queen Mary, University of London

Matthew Strickland
Professor of Medieval History at the University of Glasgow

Laura Ashe
Associate Professor in English at the University of Oxford and Fellow of Worcester College

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 13 Feb 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2535</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59nc.mp3" length="29575000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140213-1045.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59nc.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59nc.mp3" fileSize="29575000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2535" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03tt7kn</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Phoenicians</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Phoenicians. The Greek historian Herodotus wrote about a people from the Levant who were accomplished sailors and traders, and who taught the Greeks their alphabet. He called them the Phoenicians, the Greek word for purple, although it is not known what they called themselves. By about 700 BC they were trading all over the Mediterranean, taking Egyptian and Syrian goods as far as Spain and North Africa. Although they were hugely influential in the ancient world, they left few records of their own; some contemporary scholars believe that the Phoenicians were never a unified civilisation but a loose association of neighbouring city-states. 

With:

Mark Woolmer
Assistant Principal at Collingwood College, Durham University

Josephine Quinn
Lecturer in Ancient History at the University of Oxford

Cyprian Broodbank
Professor of Mediterranean Archaeology at University College London

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Phoenicians of the ancient Mediterranean.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Phoenicians. The Greek historian Herodotus wrote about a people from the Levant who were accomplished sailors and traders, and who taught the Greeks their alphabet. He called them the Phoenicians, the Greek word for purple, although it is not known what they called themselves. By about 700 BC they were trading all over the Mediterranean, taking Egyptian and Syrian goods as far as Spain and North Africa. Although they were hugely influential in the ancient world, they left few records of their own; some contemporary scholars believe that the Phoenicians were never a unified civilisation but a loose association of neighbouring city-states. 

With:

Mark Woolmer
Assistant Principal at Collingwood College, Durham University

Josephine Quinn
Lecturer in Ancient History at the University of Oxford

Cyprian Broodbank
Professor of Mediterranean Archaeology at University College London

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 06 Feb 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2519</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59nk.mp3" length="29388333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140206-1100.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59nk.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59nk.mp3" fileSize="29388333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2519" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03szw8l</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Catastrophism</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Catastrophism, the idea that natural disasters have had a significant influence in moulding the Earth's geological features. In 1822 William Buckland, the first reader of Geology at the University of Oxford, published his famous Reliquae Diluvianae, in which he ascribed most of the fossil record to the effects of Noah's flood. Charles Lyell in his Principles of Geology challenged these writings, arguing that geological change was slow and gradual, and that the processes responsible could still be seen at work today - a school of thought known as Uniformitarianism. But in the 1970s the idea that natural catastrophes were a major factor in the Earth's geology was revived and given new respectability by the discovery of evidence of a gigantic asteroid impact 65 million years ago, believed by many to have resulted in the extinction of the dinosaurs.

With:

Andrew Scott
Leverhulme Emeritus Fellow in the Department of Earth Sciences at Royal Holloway, University of London

Jan Zalasiewicz
Senior Lecturer in Geology at the University of Leicester

Leucha Veneer
Visiting Scholar at the Faculty of Life Sciences at the University of Manchester

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the geological theory of Catastrophism.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Catastrophism, the idea that natural disasters have had a significant influence in moulding the Earth's geological features. In 1822 William Buckland, the first reader of Geology at the University of Oxford, published his famous Reliquae Diluvianae, in which he ascribed most of the fossil record to the effects of Noah's flood. Charles Lyell in his Principles of Geology challenged these writings, arguing that geological change was slow and gradual, and that the processes responsible could still be seen at work today - a school of thought known as Uniformitarianism. But in the 1970s the idea that natural catastrophes were a major factor in the Earth's geology was revived and given new respectability by the discovery of evidence of a gigantic asteroid impact 65 million years ago, believed by many to have resulted in the extinction of the dinosaurs.

With:

Andrew Scott
Leverhulme Emeritus Fellow in the Department of Earth Sciences at Royal Holloway, University of London

Jan Zalasiewicz
Senior Lecturer in Geology at the University of Leicester

Leucha Veneer
Visiting Scholar at the Faculty of Life Sciences at the University of Manchester

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 30 Jan 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2514</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59ny.mp3" length="29330000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140130-1100.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59ny.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59ny.mp3" fileSize="29330000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2514" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03s9tlz</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Sources of Early Chinese History</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the sources for early Chinese history. The first attempts to make a record of historical events in China date from the Shang dynasty of the second millennium BC. The earliest surviving records were inscribed on bones or tortoise shells; in later centuries, chroniclers left detailed accounts on paper or silk. In the last hundred years, archaeologists have discovered a wealth of new materials, including a cache of previously unknown texts which were found in a sealed cave on the edge of the Gobi Desert. Such sources are are shedding new light on Chinese history, although interpreting ancient sources from the period before the invention of printing presents a number of challenges.

With:

Roel Sterckx
Joseph Needham Professor of Chinese History at the University of Cambridge

Tim Barrett
Professor of East Asian History at SOAS, University of London

Hilde de Weerdt
Professor of Chinese History at Leiden University

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the sources for early Chinese history.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the sources for early Chinese history. The first attempts to make a record of historical events in China date from the Shang dynasty of the second millennium BC. The earliest surviving records were inscribed on bones or tortoise shells; in later centuries, chroniclers left detailed accounts on paper or silk. In the last hundred years, archaeologists have discovered a wealth of new materials, including a cache of previously unknown texts which were found in a sealed cave on the edge of the Gobi Desert. Such sources are are shedding new light on Chinese history, although interpreting ancient sources from the period before the invention of printing presents a number of challenges.

With:

Roel Sterckx
Joseph Needham Professor of Chinese History at the University of Cambridge

Tim Barrett
Professor of East Asian History at SOAS, University of London

Hilde de Weerdt
Professor of Chinese History at Leiden University

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 23 Jan 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2539</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59pk.mp3" length="29621666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140123-1100.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59pk.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59pk.mp3" fileSize="29621666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2539" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03qf7qx</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Battle of Tours</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Battle of Tours. In 732 a large Arab army invaded Gaul from northern Spain, and travelled as far north as Poitiers. There they were defeated by Charles Martel, whose Frankish and Burgundian forces repelled the invaders. The result confirmed the regional supremacy of Charles, who went on to establish a strong Frankish dynasty. The Battle of Tours was the last major incursion of Muslim armies into northern Europe; some historians, including Edward Gibbon, have seen it as the decisive moment that determined that the continent would remain Christian.

With:

Hugh Kennedy
Professor of Arabic at SOAS, University of London

Rosamond McKitterick
Professor of Medieval History at the University of Cambridge

Matthew Innes
Vice-Master and Professor of History at Birkbeck, University of London.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Battle of Tours of 732.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Battle of Tours. In 732 a large Arab army invaded Gaul from northern Spain, and travelled as far north as Poitiers. There they were defeated by Charles Martel, whose Frankish and Burgundian forces repelled the invaders. The result confirmed the regional supremacy of Charles, who went on to establish a strong Frankish dynasty. The Battle of Tours was the last major incursion of Muslim armies into northern Europe; some historians, including Edward Gibbon, have seen it as the decisive moment that determined that the continent would remain Christian.

With:

Hugh Kennedy
Professor of Arabic at SOAS, University of London

Rosamond McKitterick
Professor of Medieval History at the University of Cambridge

Matthew Innes
Vice-Master and Professor of History at Birkbeck, University of London.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 16 Jan 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2525</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59py.mp3" length="29458333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140116-1045.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59py.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59py.mp3" fileSize="29458333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2525" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03pm7dv</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Plato's Symposium</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Plato's Symposium, one of the Greek philosopher's most celebrated works. Written in the 4th century BC, it is a dialogue set at a dinner party attended by a number of prominent ancient Athenians, including the philosopher Socrates and the playwright Aristophanes. Each of the guests speaks of Eros, or erotic love. This fictional discussion of the nature of love, how and why it arises and what it means to be in love, has had a significant influence on later thinkers, and is the origin of the modern notion of Platonic love.

With:

Angie Hobbs
Professor of the Public Understanding of Philosophy at the University of Sheffield

Richard Hunter
Regius Professor of Greek at the University of Cambridge

Frisbee Sheffield
Director of Studies in Philosophy at Christ's College, University of Cambridge.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Plato's Symposium.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Plato's Symposium, one of the Greek philosopher's most celebrated works. Written in the 4th century BC, it is a dialogue set at a dinner party attended by a number of prominent ancient Athenians, including the philosopher Socrates and the playwright Aristophanes. Each of the guests speaks of Eros, or erotic love. This fictional discussion of the nature of love, how and why it arises and what it means to be in love, has had a significant influence on later thinkers, and is the origin of the modern notion of Platonic love.

With:

Angie Hobbs
Professor of the Public Understanding of Philosophy at the University of Sheffield

Richard Hunter
Regius Professor of Greek at the University of Cambridge

Frisbee Sheffield
Director of Studies in Philosophy at Christ's College, University of Cambridge.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 02 Jan 2014 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2531</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59q6.mp3" length="29528333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20140102-1030.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59q6.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59q6.mp3" fileSize="29528333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2531" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03mhyzk</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Medici</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Medici family, who dominated Florence's political and cultural life for three centuries. The House of Medici came to prominence in Italy in the fifteenth century as a result of the wealth they had built up through banking. With the rise of Cosimo de' Medici, they became Florence's most powerful and influential dynasty, effectively controlling the city's government. Their patronage of the arts turned Florence into a leading centre of the Renaissance and the Medici Bank was one of the most successful institutions of its day. As well as producing four popes, members of the House of Medici married into various European royal families.

With:

Evelyn Welch
Professor of Renaissance Studies at King's College, University of London

Robert Black
Professor of Renaissance History at the University of Leeds

Catherine Fletcher
Lecturer in Public History at the University of Sheffield

Producer: Victoria Brignell.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Medici family, rulers of Renaissance Florence.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Medici family, who dominated Florence's political and cultural life for three centuries. The House of Medici came to prominence in Italy in the fifteenth century as a result of the wealth they had built up through banking. With the rise of Cosimo de' Medici, they became Florence's most powerful and influential dynasty, effectively controlling the city's government. Their patronage of the arts turned Florence into a leading centre of the Renaissance and the Medici Bank was one of the most successful institutions of its day. As well as producing four popes, members of the House of Medici married into various European royal families.

With:

Evelyn Welch
Professor of Renaissance Studies at King's College, University of London

Robert Black
Professor of Renaissance History at the University of Leeds

Catherine Fletcher
Lecturer in Public History at the University of Sheffield

Producer: Victoria Brignell.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 26 Dec 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2523</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59qk.mp3" length="29434999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20131226-1045.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59qk.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59qk.mp3" fileSize="29434999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2523" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03m7z08</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Complexity</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss complexity and how it can help us understand the world around us. When living beings come together and act in a group, they do so in complicated and unpredictable ways: societies often behave very differently from the individuals within them. Complexity was a phenomenon little understood a generation ago, but research into complex systems now has important applications in many different fields, from biology to political science. Today it is being used to explain how birds flock, to predict traffic flow in cities and to study the spread of diseases.

With:

Ian Stewart
Emeritus Professor of Mathematics at the University of Warwick

Jeff Johnson
Professor of Complexity Science and Design at the Open University

Professor Eve Mitleton-Kelly
Director of the Complexity Research Group at the London School of Economics.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss complexity theory.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss complexity and how it can help us understand the world around us. When living beings come together and act in a group, they do so in complicated and unpredictable ways: societies often behave very differently from the individuals within them. Complexity was a phenomenon little understood a generation ago, but research into complex systems now has important applications in many different fields, from biology to political science. Today it is being used to explain how birds flock, to predict traffic flow in cities and to study the spread of diseases.

With:

Ian Stewart
Emeritus Professor of Mathematics at the University of Warwick

Jeff Johnson
Professor of Complexity Science and Design at the Open University

Professor Eve Mitleton-Kelly
Director of the Complexity Research Group at the London School of Economics.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 19 Dec 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2509</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59r2.mp3" length="29271666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20131219-1100.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59r2.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59r2.mp3" fileSize="29271666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2509" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03ls154</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Pliny the Younger</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and work of Pliny the Younger, famous for his letters. A prominent lawyer in Rome in the first century AD, Pliny later became governor of the province of Bithynia, on the Black Sea coast of modern Turkey. Throughout his career he was a prolific letter-writer, sharing his thoughts with great contemporaries including the historian Tacitus, and asking the advice of the Emperor Trajan. Pliny's letters offer fascinating insights into life in ancient Rome and its empire, from the mundane details of irrigation schemes to his vivid eyewitness account of the eruption of Vesuvius.

With:

Catharine Edwards
Professor of Classics and Ancient History at Birkbeck, University of London

Roy Gibson
Professor of Latin at the University of Manchester

Alice König 
Lecturer in Latin and Classical Studies at the University of St Andrews

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Roman letter-writer Pliny the Younger.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and work of Pliny the Younger, famous for his letters. A prominent lawyer in Rome in the first century AD, Pliny later became governor of the province of Bithynia, on the Black Sea coast of modern Turkey. Throughout his career he was a prolific letter-writer, sharing his thoughts with great contemporaries including the historian Tacitus, and asking the advice of the Emperor Trajan. Pliny's letters offer fascinating insights into life in ancient Rome and its empire, from the mundane details of irrigation schemes to his vivid eyewitness account of the eruption of Vesuvius.

With:

Catharine Edwards
Professor of Classics and Ancient History at Birkbeck, University of London

Roy Gibson
Professor of Latin at the University of Manchester

Alice König 
Lecturer in Latin and Classical Studies at the University of St Andrews

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 12 Dec 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2506</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59rs.mp3" length="29236666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20131212-1120.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59rs.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59rs.mp3" fileSize="29236666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2506" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03kv0cl</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Hindu Ideas of Creation</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Hindu ideas about Creation. According to most Western religious traditions, a deity was the original creator of the Universe. Hinduism, on the other hand, has no single creation story. For thousands of years, Hindu thinkers have taken a variety of approaches to the question of where we come from, with some making the case for divine intervention and others asking whether it is even possible for humans to comprehend the nature of creation. The origin of our existence, and the nature of the Universe we live in, is one of the richest strands of Hindu thought.

With:

Jessica Frazier
Lecturer in Religious Studies at the University of Kent and a Research Fellow of the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies at the University of Oxford

Chakravarthi Ram-Prasad
Professor of Comparative Religion and Philosophy at Lancaster University

Gavin Flood
Professor of Hindu Studies and Comparative Religion at the University of Oxford.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Hindu ideas about the creation of the universe.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Hindu ideas about Creation. According to most Western religious traditions, a deity was the original creator of the Universe. Hinduism, on the other hand, has no single creation story. For thousands of years, Hindu thinkers have taken a variety of approaches to the question of where we come from, with some making the case for divine intervention and others asking whether it is even possible for humans to comprehend the nature of creation. The origin of our existence, and the nature of the Universe we live in, is one of the richest strands of Hindu thought.

With:

Jessica Frazier
Lecturer in Religious Studies at the University of Kent and a Research Fellow of the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies at the University of Oxford

Chakravarthi Ram-Prasad
Professor of Comparative Religion and Philosophy at Lancaster University

Gavin Flood
Professor of Hindu Studies and Comparative Religion at the University of Oxford.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 05 Dec 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2517</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59s0.mp3" length="29365000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20131205-1100.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59s0.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59s0.mp3" fileSize="29365000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2517" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03k289f</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Microscope</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the development of the microscope, an instrument which has revolutionised our knowledge of the world and the organisms that inhabit it. In the seventeenth century the pioneering work of two scientists, the Dutchman Antonie van Leeuwenhoek and Robert Hooke in England, revealed the teeming microscopic world that exists at scales beyond the capabilities of the naked eye. 

The microscope became an essential component of scientific enquiry by the nineteenth century, but in the 1930s a German physicist, Ernst Ruska, discovered that by using a beam of electrons he could view structures much tinier than was possible using visible light. Today light and electron microscopy are among the most powerful tools at the disposal of modern science, and new techniques are still being developed.

With:

Jim Bennett
Visiting Keeper at the Science Museum in London

Sir Colin Humphreys
Professor of Materials Science and Director of Research at the University of Cambridge

Michelle Peckham
Professor of Cell Biology at the University of Leeds

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the development of the microscope.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the development of the microscope, an instrument which has revolutionised our knowledge of the world and the organisms that inhabit it. In the seventeenth century the pioneering work of two scientists, the Dutchman Antonie van Leeuwenhoek and Robert Hooke in England, revealed the teeming microscopic world that exists at scales beyond the capabilities of the naked eye. 

The microscope became an essential component of scientific enquiry by the nineteenth century, but in the 1930s a German physicist, Ernst Ruska, discovered that by using a beam of electrons he could view structures much tinier than was possible using visible light. Today light and electron microscopy are among the most powerful tools at the disposal of modern science, and new techniques are still being developed.

With:

Jim Bennett
Visiting Keeper at the Science Museum in London

Sir Colin Humphreys
Professor of Materials Science and Director of Research at the University of Cambridge

Michelle Peckham
Professor of Cell Biology at the University of Leeds

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 28 Nov 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2530</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59sg.mp3" length="29516666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20131128-1045.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59sg.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59sg.mp3" fileSize="29516666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2530" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03jdy3p</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Pocahontas</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life of Pocahontas, the Native American woman who to English eyes became a symbol of the New World. During the colonisation of Virginia in the first years of the seventeenth century, Pocahontas famously saved the life of an English prisoner, John Smith. Later captured, she converted to Christianity, married a settler and travelled to England where she was regarded as a curiosity. She died in 1617 at the age of 22 and was buried in Gravesend; her story has fascinated generations on both sides of the Atlantic, and has been reinterpreted and retold by many writers and artists.

With:

Susan Castillo
Harriet Beecher Stowe Emeritus Professor of American Studies at King's College London

Tim Lockley
Reader in American Studies at the University of Warwick

Jacqueline Fear-Segal 
Reader in American History and Culture at the University of East Anglia

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life of the Native American Pocahontas.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life of Pocahontas, the Native American woman who to English eyes became a symbol of the New World. During the colonisation of Virginia in the first years of the seventeenth century, Pocahontas famously saved the life of an English prisoner, John Smith. Later captured, she converted to Christianity, married a settler and travelled to England where she was regarded as a curiosity. She died in 1617 at the age of 22 and was buried in Gravesend; her story has fascinated generations on both sides of the Atlantic, and has been reinterpreted and retold by many writers and artists.

With:

Susan Castillo
Harriet Beecher Stowe Emeritus Professor of American Studies at King's College London

Tim Lockley
Reader in American Studies at the University of Warwick

Jacqueline Fear-Segal 
Reader in American History and Culture at the University of East Anglia

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 21 Nov 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2510</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59sr.mp3" length="29283333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20131121-1100.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59sr.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59sr.mp3" fileSize="29283333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2510" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03hwn09</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Tempest</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Shakespeare's play The Tempest. Written in around 1610, it is thought to be one of the playwright's final works and contains some of the most poetic and memorable passages in all his output. It was influenced by accounts of distant lands written by contemporary explorers, and by the complex international politics of the early Jacobean age.

The Tempest is set entirely on an unnamed island inhabited by the magician Prospero, his daughter Miranda and the monstrous Caliban, one of the most intriguing characters in Shakespeare's output. Its themes include magic and the nature of theatre itself - and some modern critics have seen it as an early meditation on the ethics of colonialism.

With:

Jonathan Bate
Provost of Worcester College, Oxford

Erin Sullivan
Lecturer and Fellow at the Shakespeare Institute, University of Birmingham

Katherine Duncan-Jones
Emeritus Fellow of Somerville College, Oxford

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Shakespeare's The Tempest.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Shakespeare's play The Tempest. Written in around 1610, it is thought to be one of the playwright's final works and contains some of the most poetic and memorable passages in all his output. It was influenced by accounts of distant lands written by contemporary explorers, and by the complex international politics of the early Jacobean age.

The Tempest is set entirely on an unnamed island inhabited by the magician Prospero, his daughter Miranda and the monstrous Caliban, one of the most intriguing characters in Shakespeare's output. Its themes include magic and the nature of theatre itself - and some modern critics have seen it as an early meditation on the ethics of colonialism.

With:

Jonathan Bate
Provost of Worcester College, Oxford

Erin Sullivan
Lecturer and Fellow at the Shakespeare Institute, University of Birmingham

Katherine Duncan-Jones
Emeritus Fellow of Somerville College, Oxford

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 14 Nov 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2519</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59t2.mp3" length="29388333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20131114-1100.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59t2.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59t2.mp3" fileSize="29388333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2519" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03h6px5</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Ordinary Language Philosophy</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Ordinary Language Philosophy, a school of thought which emerged in Oxford in the years following World War II. With its roots in the work of Ludwig Wittgenstein, Ordinary Language Philosophy is concerned with the meanings of words as used in everyday speech. Its adherents believed that many philosophical problems were created by the misuse of words, and that if such 'ordinary language' were correctly analysed, such problems would disappear. Philosophers associated with the school include some of the most distinguished British thinkers of the twentieth century, such as Gilbert Ryle and JL Austin.

With:

Stephen Mulhall
Professor of Philosophy at New College, Oxford

Ray Monk
Professor of Philosophy at the University of Southampton

Julia Tanney
Reader in Philosophy of Mind at the University of Kent

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Ordinary Language Philosophy.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Ordinary Language Philosophy, a school of thought which emerged in Oxford in the years following World War II. With its roots in the work of Ludwig Wittgenstein, Ordinary Language Philosophy is concerned with the meanings of words as used in everyday speech. Its adherents believed that many philosophical problems were created by the misuse of words, and that if such 'ordinary language' were correctly analysed, such problems would disappear. Philosophers associated with the school include some of the most distinguished British thinkers of the twentieth century, such as Gilbert Ryle and JL Austin.

With:

Stephen Mulhall
Professor of Philosophy at New College, Oxford

Ray Monk
Professor of Philosophy at the University of Southampton

Julia Tanney
Reader in Philosophy of Mind at the University of Kent

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 07 Nov 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2517</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59tb.mp3" length="29365000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20131107-1115.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59tb.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59tb.mp3" fileSize="29365000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2517" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03ggc19</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Berlin Conference</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Berlin Conference of 1884. In the 1880s, as colonial powers attempted to increase their spheres of influence in Africa, tensions began to grow between European nations including Britain, Belgium and France. In 1884 the German Chancellor, Otto von Bismarck, brought together many of Europe's leading statesmen to discuss trade and colonial activities in Africa. Although the original purpose of the summit was to settle the question of territorial rights in West Africa, negotiations eventually dealt with the entire continent. The conference was part of the process known as the Scramble for Africa, and the decisions reached at it had effects which have lasted to the present day. The conference is commonly seen as one of the most significant events of the so-called Scramble for Africa; in the following decades, European nations laid claim to most of the continent.

With:

Richard Drayton
Rhodes Professor of Imperial History at King's College London

Richard Rathbone
Emeritus Professor of African History at SOAS, University of London

Joanna Lewis
Assistant Professor of Imperial History at the LSE, University of London.


Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Berlin Conference and the Scramble for Africa.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Berlin Conference of 1884. In the 1880s, as colonial powers attempted to increase their spheres of influence in Africa, tensions began to grow between European nations including Britain, Belgium and France. In 1884 the German Chancellor, Otto von Bismarck, brought together many of Europe's leading statesmen to discuss trade and colonial activities in Africa. Although the original purpose of the summit was to settle the question of territorial rights in West Africa, negotiations eventually dealt with the entire continent. The conference was part of the process known as the Scramble for Africa, and the decisions reached at it had effects which have lasted to the present day. The conference is commonly seen as one of the most significant events of the so-called Scramble for Africa; in the following decades, European nations laid claim to most of the continent.

With:

Richard Drayton
Rhodes Professor of Imperial History at King's College London

Richard Rathbone
Emeritus Professor of African History at SOAS, University of London

Joanna Lewis
Assistant Professor of Imperial History at the LSE, University of London.


Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 31 Oct 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2523</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59tj.mp3" length="29434999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20131031-1115.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59tj.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59tj.mp3" fileSize="29434999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2523" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03ffkfd</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Corn Laws</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Corn Laws. In 1815 the British Government passed legislation which artificially inflated the price of corn. The measure was supported by landowners but strongly opposed by manufacturers and the urban working class. In the 1830s the Anti-Corn Law League was founded to campaign for their repeal, led by the Radical Richard Cobden. The Conservative government of Sir Robert Peel finally repealed the laws in 1846, splitting his party in the process, and the resulting debate had profound consequences for the political and economic future of the country.

With:

Lawrence Goldman
Fellow in Modern History at St Peter's College, Oxford

Boyd Hilton
Former Professor of Modern British History at the University of Cambridge and Fellow of Trinity College

Cheryl Schonhardt-Bailey
Reader in Political Science at the London School of Economics

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Corn Laws of the 19th century.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Corn Laws. In 1815 the British Government passed legislation which artificially inflated the price of corn. The measure was supported by landowners but strongly opposed by manufacturers and the urban working class. In the 1830s the Anti-Corn Law League was founded to campaign for their repeal, led by the Radical Richard Cobden. The Conservative government of Sir Robert Peel finally repealed the laws in 1846, splitting his party in the process, and the resulting debate had profound consequences for the political and economic future of the country.

With:

Lawrence Goldman
Fellow in Modern History at St Peter's College, Oxford

Boyd Hilton
Former Professor of Modern British History at the University of Cambridge and Fellow of Trinity College

Cheryl Schonhardt-Bailey
Reader in Political Science at the London School of Economics

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 24 Oct 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2512</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59tq.mp3" length="29306666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20131024-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59tq.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59tq.mp3" fileSize="29306666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2512" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03dvbyk</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Book of Common Prayer</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Book of Common Prayer. In 1549, at the height of the English Reformation, a new prayer book was published containing versions of the liturgy in English. Generally believed to have been supervised by Thomas Cranmer, the Book of Common Prayer was at the centre of the decade of religious turmoil that followed, and disputes over its use were one of the major causes of the English Civil War in the 1640s. The book was revised several times before the celebrated final version was published in 1662. It is still in use in many churches today, and remains not just a liturgical text of great importance but a literary work of profound beauty and influence.With:Diarmaid MacCullochProfessor of the History of the Church at the University of OxfordAlexandra WalshamProfessor of Modern History at the University of CambridgeMartin PalmerDirector of the International Consultancy on Religion, Education, and CultureProducer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Book of Common Prayer.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Book of Common Prayer. In 1549, at the height of the English Reformation, a new prayer book was published containing versions of the liturgy in English. Generally believed to have been supervised by Thomas Cranmer, the Book of Common Prayer was at the centre of the decade of religious turmoil that followed, and disputes over its use were one of the major causes of the English Civil War in the 1640s. The book was revised several times before the celebrated final version was published in 1662. It is still in use in many churches today, and remains not just a liturgical text of great importance but a literary work of profound beauty and influence.With:Diarmaid MacCullochProfessor of the History of the Church at the University of OxfordAlexandra WalshamProfessor of Modern History at the University of CambridgeMartin PalmerDirector of the International Consultancy on Religion, Education, and CultureProducer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 17 Oct 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2520</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59tx.mp3" length="29400000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20131017-1100.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59tx.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59tx.mp3" fileSize="29400000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2520" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03ct4n4</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Galen</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Roman physician and medical theorist Galen. The most celebrated doctor in the ancient world, Galen was Greek by birth but spent most of his career in Rome, where he was personal physician to three Emperors. He was one of the most prolific authors of his age, and a sixth of all surviving ancient literature in Greek was written by him. Celebrated in his own lifetime, he was regarded as the preeminent medical authority for centuries after his death, both in the Arab world and in medieval Europe. It was only the discoveries of Renaissance science which removed Galen from his dominant position in the pantheon of medicine.With:Vivian NuttonEmeritus Professor of the History of Medicine at University College LondonHelen KingProfessor of Classical Studies at the Open UniversityCaroline PetitWellcome Trust Senior Research Fellow in Classics at the University of WarwickProducer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Roman physician and medical theorist Galen.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Roman physician and medical theorist Galen. The most celebrated doctor in the ancient world, Galen was Greek by birth but spent most of his career in Rome, where he was personal physician to three Emperors. He was one of the most prolific authors of his age, and a sixth of all surviving ancient literature in Greek was written by him. Celebrated in his own lifetime, he was regarded as the preeminent medical authority for centuries after his death, both in the Arab world and in medieval Europe. It was only the discoveries of Renaissance science which removed Galen from his dominant position in the pantheon of medicine.With:Vivian NuttonEmeritus Professor of the History of Medicine at University College LondonHelen KingProfessor of Classical Studies at the Open UniversityCaroline PetitWellcome Trust Senior Research Fellow in Classics at the University of WarwickProducer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 10 Oct 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2523</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59v3.mp3" length="29434999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20131010-1100.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59v3.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59v3.mp3" fileSize="29434999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2523" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03c4dys</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Exoplanets</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss exoplanets. Astronomers have speculated about the existence of planets beyond our solar system for centuries. Although strenuous efforts were made to find such planets orbiting distant stars, it was not until the 1990s that instruments became sophisticated enough to detect such remote objects. In 1992 Dale Frail and Aleksander Wolszczan discovered the first confirmed exoplanets: two planets orbiting the pulsar PSR B1257+12. Since then, astronomers have discovered more than 900 exoplanets, and are able to reach increasingly sophisticated conclusions about what they look like - and whether they might be able to support life. Recent data from experiments such as NASA's space telescope Kepler indicates that such planets may be far more common than previously suspected.

With:

Carolin Crawford
Gresham Professor of Astronomy and a member of the Institute of Astronomy at the University of Cambridge

Don Pollacco
Professor of Astronomy at the University of Warwick

Suzanne Aigrain
Lecturer in Astrophysics at the University of Oxford and a Fellow of All Souls College.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss planets outside our solar system, known as exoplanets.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss exoplanets. Astronomers have speculated about the existence of planets beyond our solar system for centuries. Although strenuous efforts were made to find such planets orbiting distant stars, it was not until the 1990s that instruments became sophisticated enough to detect such remote objects. In 1992 Dale Frail and Aleksander Wolszczan discovered the first confirmed exoplanets: two planets orbiting the pulsar PSR B1257+12. Since then, astronomers have discovered more than 900 exoplanets, and are able to reach increasingly sophisticated conclusions about what they look like - and whether they might be able to support life. Recent data from experiments such as NASA's space telescope Kepler indicates that such planets may be far more common than previously suspected.

With:

Carolin Crawford
Gresham Professor of Astronomy and a member of the Institute of Astronomy at the University of Cambridge

Don Pollacco
Professor of Astronomy at the University of Warwick

Suzanne Aigrain
Lecturer in Astrophysics at the University of Oxford and a Fellow of All Souls College.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Oct 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2521</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59vb.mp3" length="29411666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20131003-1045.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59vb.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59vb.mp3" fileSize="29411666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2521" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03brwql</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Mamluks</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Mamluks, who ruled Egypt and Syria from about 1250 to 1517. Originally slave soldiers who managed to depose their masters, they went on to repel the Mongols and the Crusaders to become the dominant force in the medieval Islamic Middle Eastern world. Although the Mamluks were renowned as warriors, under their rule art, crafts and architecture blossomed. Little known by many in the West today, the Mamluks remained in power for almost 300 years until they were eventually overthrown by the Ottomans.

With:

Amira Bennison
Reader in the History and Culture of the Maghrib at the University of Cambridge and Fellow of Magdalene College

Robert Irwin
Former Senior Research Associate in the Department of History at SOAS, University of London

Doris Behrens-Abouseif
Nasser D Khalili Professor of Islamic Art and Archaeology at SOAS, University of London

Producer: Victoria Brignell.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Mamluks, medieval rulers of Egypt and Syria.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Mamluks, who ruled Egypt and Syria from about 1250 to 1517. Originally slave soldiers who managed to depose their masters, they went on to repel the Mongols and the Crusaders to become the dominant force in the medieval Islamic Middle Eastern world. Although the Mamluks were renowned as warriors, under their rule art, crafts and architecture blossomed. Little known by many in the West today, the Mamluks remained in power for almost 300 years until they were eventually overthrown by the Ottomans.

With:

Amira Bennison
Reader in the History and Culture of the Maghrib at the University of Cambridge and Fellow of Magdalene College

Robert Irwin
Former Senior Research Associate in the Department of History at SOAS, University of London

Doris Behrens-Abouseif
Nasser D Khalili Professor of Islamic Art and Archaeology at SOAS, University of London

Producer: Victoria Brignell.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 26 Sep 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2525</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59vn.mp3" length="29458333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130926-1030.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59vn.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59vn.mp3" fileSize="29458333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2525" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03bfmlh</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Pascal</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests begin a new series of the programme with a discussion of the French polymath Blaise Pascal. Born in 1623, Pascal was a brilliant mathematician and scientist, inventing one of the first mechanical calculators and making important discoveries about fluids and vacuums while still a young man. In his thirties he experienced a religious conversion, after which he devoted most of his attention to philosophy and theology. Although he died in his late thirties, Pascal left a formidable legacy as a scientist and pioneer of probability theory, and as one of seventeenth century Europe's greatest writers. 

With:

David Wootton
Anniversary Professor of History at the University of York

Michael Moriarty
Drapers Professor of French at the University of Cambridge

Michela Massimi
Senior Lecturer in the Philosophy of Science at the University of Edinburgh.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and work of the French thinker Blaise Pascal.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests begin a new series of the programme with a discussion of the French polymath Blaise Pascal. Born in 1623, Pascal was a brilliant mathematician and scientist, inventing one of the first mechanical calculators and making important discoveries about fluids and vacuums while still a young man. In his thirties he experienced a religious conversion, after which he devoted most of his attention to philosophy and theology. Although he died in his late thirties, Pascal left a formidable legacy as a scientist and pioneer of probability theory, and as one of seventeenth century Europe's greatest writers. 

With:

David Wootton
Anniversary Professor of History at the University of York

Michael Moriarty
Drapers Professor of French at the University of Cambridge

Michela Massimi
Senior Lecturer in the Philosophy of Science at the University of Edinburgh.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 19 Sep 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2517</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59w7.mp3" length="29365000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130919-1030.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59w7.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59w7.mp3" fileSize="29365000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2517" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b03b2v6m</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Invention of Radio</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the invention of radio. In the early 1860s the Scottish physicist James Clerk Maxwell derived four equations which together describe the behaviour of electricity and magnetism. They predicted the existence of a previously unknown phenomenon: electromagnetic waves. These waves were first observed in the early 1880s, and over the next two decades a succession of scientists and engineers built increasingly elaborate devices to produce and detect them. Eventually this gave birth to a new technology: radio. The Italian Guglielmo Marconi is commonly described as the father of radio - but many other figures were involved in its development, and it was not him but a Canadian, Reginald Fessenden, who first succeeded in transmitting speech over the airwaves.

With:

Simon Schaffer
Professor of the History of Science at the University of Cambridge

Elizabeth Bruton
Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Leeds

John Liffen
Curator of Communications at the Science Museum, London

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the invention of radio.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the invention of radio. In the early 1860s the Scottish physicist James Clerk Maxwell derived four equations which together describe the behaviour of electricity and magnetism. They predicted the existence of a previously unknown phenomenon: electromagnetic waves. These waves were first observed in the early 1880s, and over the next two decades a succession of scientists and engineers built increasingly elaborate devices to produce and detect them. Eventually this gave birth to a new technology: radio. The Italian Guglielmo Marconi is commonly described as the father of radio - but many other figures were involved in its development, and it was not him but a Canadian, Reginald Fessenden, who first succeeded in transmitting speech over the airwaves.

With:

Simon Schaffer
Professor of the History of Science at the University of Cambridge

Elizabeth Bruton
Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Leeds

John Liffen
Curator of Communications at the Science Museum, London

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 04 Jul 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2519</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59wt.mp3" length="29388333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130704-1120.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59wt.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59wt.mp3" fileSize="29388333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2519" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b0368knw</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Romance of the Three Kingdoms</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Romance of the Three Kingdoms, widely regarded as one of the greatest works of Chinese literature. Written 600 years ago, it is an historical novel that tells the story of a tumultuous period in Chinese history, the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD. Partly historical and partly legend, it recounts the fighting and scheming of the feudal lords and the three states which came to power as the Han Dynasty collapsed. The influence of Romance of the Three Kingdoms in East Asia has been likened to that of Homer in the West, and this warfare epic remains popular in China today.

With:

Frances Wood
Former Lead Curator of Chinese Collections at the British Library

Craig Clunas
Professor of the History of Art at the University of Oxford

Margaret Hillenbrand
University Lecturer in Modern Chinese Literature at the University of Oxford and Fellow of Wadham College

Producer: Victoria Brignell.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Chinese book Romance of the Three Kingdoms.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Romance of the Three Kingdoms, widely regarded as one of the greatest works of Chinese literature. Written 600 years ago, it is an historical novel that tells the story of a tumultuous period in Chinese history, the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD. Partly historical and partly legend, it recounts the fighting and scheming of the feudal lords and the three states which came to power as the Han Dynasty collapsed. The influence of Romance of the Three Kingdoms in East Asia has been likened to that of Homer in the West, and this warfare epic remains popular in China today.

With:

Frances Wood
Former Lead Curator of Chinese Collections at the British Library

Craig Clunas
Professor of the History of Art at the University of Oxford

Margaret Hillenbrand
University Lecturer in Modern Chinese Literature at the University of Oxford and Fellow of Wadham College

Producer: Victoria Brignell.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 27 Jun 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2527</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59xb.mp3" length="29481666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130627-1100.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59xb.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59xb.mp3" fileSize="29481666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2527" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b02ykzh7</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Physiocrats</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Physiocrats, an important group of economic thinkers in eighteenth-century France. The Physiocrats believed that the land was the ultimate source of all wealth, and crucially that markets should not be constrained by governments. Their ideas were important not just to economists but to the course of politics in France. Later they influenced the work of Adam Smith, who called Physiocracy &quot;perhaps the nearest approximation to the truth that has yet been published upon the subject of political economy.&quot;

With:

Richard Whatmore
Professor of Intellectual History &amp; the History of Political Thought at the University of Sussex

Joel Felix
Professor of History at the University of Reading

Helen Paul
Lecturer in Economics and Economic History at the University of Southampton.


Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Physiocrats, important French economic thinkers.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Physiocrats, an important group of economic thinkers in eighteenth-century France. The Physiocrats believed that the land was the ultimate source of all wealth, and crucially that markets should not be constrained by governments. Their ideas were important not just to economists but to the course of politics in France. Later they influenced the work of Adam Smith, who called Physiocracy &quot;perhaps the nearest approximation to the truth that has yet been published upon the subject of political economy.&quot;

With:

Richard Whatmore
Professor of Intellectual History &amp; the History of Political Thought at the University of Sussex

Joel Felix
Professor of History at the University of Reading

Helen Paul
Lecturer in Economics and Economic History at the University of Southampton.


Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 20 Jun 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2521</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59y5.mp3" length="29411666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130620-1300.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59y5.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59y5.mp3" fileSize="29411666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2521" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b02x97k6</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Prophecy</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the meaning and significance of prophecy in the Abrahamic religions. Prophets, those with the ability to convey divinely-inspired revelation, are significant figures in the Hebrew Bible and later became important not just to Judaism but also to Christianity and Islam. Although these three religions share many of the same prophets, their interpretation of the nature of prophecy often differs.

With:

Mona Siddiqui
Professor of Islamic and Interreligious Studies at the University of Edinburgh

Justin Meggitt
University Senior Lecturer in the Study of Religion and the Origins of Christianity at the University of Cambridge

Jonathan Stökl
Post-Doctoral Researcher at Leiden University.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss prophecy in the Abrahamic religions.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the meaning and significance of prophecy in the Abrahamic religions. Prophets, those with the ability to convey divinely-inspired revelation, are significant figures in the Hebrew Bible and later became important not just to Judaism but also to Christianity and Islam. Although these three religions share many of the same prophets, their interpretation of the nature of prophecy often differs.

With:

Mona Siddiqui
Professor of Islamic and Interreligious Studies at the University of Edinburgh

Justin Meggitt
University Senior Lecturer in the Study of Religion and the Origins of Christianity at the University of Cambridge

Jonathan Stökl
Post-Doctoral Researcher at Leiden University.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 13 Jun 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2526</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59zk.mp3" length="29470000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130613-1115.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59zk.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q59zk.mp3" fileSize="29470000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2526" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b02qncqn</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Relativity</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Einstein's theories of relativity. Between 1905 and 1917 Albert Einstein formulated a theoretical framework which transformed our understanding of the Universe. The twin theories of Special and General Relativity offered insights into the nature of space, time and gravitation which changed the face of modern science. Relativity resolved apparent contradictions in physics and also predicted several new phenomena, including black holes. It's regarded today as one of the greatest intellectual achievements of the twentieth century, and had an impact far beyond the world of science.

With:

Ruth Gregory
Professor of Mathematics and Physics at Durham University

Martin Rees
Astronomer Royal and Emeritus Professor of Cosmology and Astrophysics at the University of Cambridge

Roger Penrose
Emeritus Rouse Ball Professor of Mathematics at the University of Oxford.


Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Einstein's theory of relativity.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Einstein's theories of relativity. Between 1905 and 1917 Albert Einstein formulated a theoretical framework which transformed our understanding of the Universe. The twin theories of Special and General Relativity offered insights into the nature of space, time and gravitation which changed the face of modern science. Relativity resolved apparent contradictions in physics and also predicted several new phenomena, including black holes. It's regarded today as one of the greatest intellectual achievements of the twentieth century, and had an impact far beyond the world of science.

With:

Ruth Gregory
Professor of Mathematics and Physics at Durham University

Martin Rees
Astronomer Royal and Emeritus Professor of Cosmology and Astrophysics at the University of Cambridge

Roger Penrose
Emeritus Rouse Ball Professor of Mathematics at the University of Oxford.


Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 06 Jun 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2524</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b04.mp3" length="29446666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130606-1100.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b04.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b04.mp3" fileSize="29446666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2524" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b02144gl</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Queen Zenobia</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Queen Zenobia, a famous military leader of the ancient world. Born in around 240 AD, Zenobia was Empress of the Palmyrene Empire in the Middle East. A highly educated, intelligent and militarily accomplished leader, she claimed descent from Dido and Cleopatra and spoke many languages, including Egyptian. Zenobia led a rebellion against the Roman Empire and conquered Egypt before being finally defeated by the Emperor Aurelian. Her story captured the imagination of many Renaissance writers, and has become the subject of numerous operas, poems and plays.

With:

Edith Hall 
Professor of Classics at King's College, London 

Kate Cooper 
Professor of Ancient History at the University of Manchester 

Richard Stoneman
Honorary Visiting Professor in the Department of Classics and Ancient History at the University of Exeter.


Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss Queen Zenobia, who led a rebellion against Ancient Rome.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Queen Zenobia, a famous military leader of the ancient world. Born in around 240 AD, Zenobia was Empress of the Palmyrene Empire in the Middle East. A highly educated, intelligent and militarily accomplished leader, she claimed descent from Dido and Cleopatra and spoke many languages, including Egyptian. Zenobia led a rebellion against the Roman Empire and conquered Egypt before being finally defeated by the Emperor Aurelian. Her story captured the imagination of many Renaissance writers, and has become the subject of numerous operas, poems and plays.

With:

Edith Hall 
Professor of Classics at King's College, London 

Kate Cooper 
Professor of Ancient History at the University of Manchester 

Richard Stoneman
Honorary Visiting Professor in the Department of Classics and Ancient History at the University of Exeter.


Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 30 May 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2520</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b0f.mp3" length="29400000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130530-1100.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b0f.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b0f.mp3" fileSize="29400000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2520" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01snjpp</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Lévi-Strauss</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the work of the anthropologist Claude Lévi-Strauss. One of twentieth-century France's most celebrated intellectuals, Lévi-Strauss attempted to show in his work that thought processes were a feature universal to humans, whether they lived in tribal rainforest societies or in the rich intellectual life of Paris. During the 1930s he studied native Brazilian tribes in the Amazonian jungle, but for most of his long career he preferred the study to the field. He was the leading exponent of structuralism, a school of thought which was influential for decades, and was involved in a famous debate with his friend Jean-Paul Sartre, who resisted many of his ideas. His books about the nature of myth, human thought and kinship are now seen as some of the most important anthropological texts written in the twentieth century.

With:

Adam Kuper 
Visiting Professor of Anthropology at Boston University 

Christina Howells 
Professor of French at Oxford University 

Vincent Debaene 
Associate Professor of French Literature at Columbia University


Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the work of French anthropologist Claude Levi-Strauss.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the work of the anthropologist Claude Lévi-Strauss. One of twentieth-century France's most celebrated intellectuals, Lévi-Strauss attempted to show in his work that thought processes were a feature universal to humans, whether they lived in tribal rainforest societies or in the rich intellectual life of Paris. During the 1930s he studied native Brazilian tribes in the Amazonian jungle, but for most of his long career he preferred the study to the field. He was the leading exponent of structuralism, a school of thought which was influential for decades, and was involved in a famous debate with his friend Jean-Paul Sartre, who resisted many of his ideas. His books about the nature of myth, human thought and kinship are now seen as some of the most important anthropological texts written in the twentieth century.

With:

Adam Kuper 
Visiting Professor of Anthropology at Boston University 

Christina Howells 
Professor of French at Oxford University 

Vincent Debaene 
Associate Professor of French Literature at Columbia University


Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2523</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b0p.mp3" length="29434999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130523-1045.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b0p.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b0p.mp3" fileSize="29434999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2523" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01sjjxl</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Cosmic Rays</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss cosmic rays. In 1912 the physicist Victor Hess discovered that the Earth is under constant bombardment from radiation coming from outside our atmosphere. These so-called cosmic rays have been known to cause damage to satellites and electronic devices on Earth, but most are absorbed by our atmosphere. The study of cosmic rays and their effects has led to major breakthroughs in particle physics. But today physicists are still trying to establish where these highly energetic subatomic particles come from.

With:

Carolin Crawford
Gresham Professor of Astronomy and a member of the Institute of Astronomy at the University of Cambridge 

Alan Watson 
Emeritus Professor of Physics at the University of Leeds 

Tim Greenshaw 
Professor of Physics at the University of Liverpool.



Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss cosmic rays.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss cosmic rays. In 1912 the physicist Victor Hess discovered that the Earth is under constant bombardment from radiation coming from outside our atmosphere. These so-called cosmic rays have been known to cause damage to satellites and electronic devices on Earth, but most are absorbed by our atmosphere. The study of cosmic rays and their effects has led to major breakthroughs in particle physics. But today physicists are still trying to establish where these highly energetic subatomic particles come from.

With:

Carolin Crawford
Gresham Professor of Astronomy and a member of the Institute of Astronomy at the University of Cambridge 

Alan Watson 
Emeritus Professor of Physics at the University of Leeds 

Tim Greenshaw 
Professor of Physics at the University of Liverpool.



Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2525</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b0w.mp3" length="29458333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130516-1045.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b0w.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b0w.mp3" fileSize="29458333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2525" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01sdnkg</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Icelandic Sagas</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Icelandic Sagas. First written down in the 13th century, the sagas tell the stories of the Norse settlers of Iceland, who began to arrive on the island in the late 9th century. They contain some of the richest and most extraordinary writing of the Middle Ages, and often depict events known to have happened in the early years of Icelandic history, although there is much debate as to how much of their content is factual and how much imaginative. Full of heroes, feuds and outlaws, with a smattering of ghosts and trolls, the sagas inspired later writers including Sir Walter Scott, William Morris and WH Auden.

With:

Carolyne Larrington
Fellow and Tutor in Medieval English Literature at St John's College, Oxford

Elizabeth Ashman Rowe
University Lecturer in Scandinavian History at the University of Cambridge

Emily Lethbridge
Post-Doctoral Researcher at the Árni Magnússon Manuscripts Institute in Reykjavík

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Icelandic sagas.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Icelandic Sagas. First written down in the 13th century, the sagas tell the stories of the Norse settlers of Iceland, who began to arrive on the island in the late 9th century. They contain some of the richest and most extraordinary writing of the Middle Ages, and often depict events known to have happened in the early years of Icelandic history, although there is much debate as to how much of their content is factual and how much imaginative. Full of heroes, feuds and outlaws, with a smattering of ghosts and trolls, the sagas inspired later writers including Sir Walter Scott, William Morris and WH Auden.

With:

Carolyne Larrington
Fellow and Tutor in Medieval English Literature at St John's College, Oxford

Elizabeth Ashman Rowe
University Lecturer in Scandinavian History at the University of Cambridge

Emily Lethbridge
Post-Doctoral Researcher at the Árni Magnússon Manuscripts Institute in Reykjavík

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 09 May 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2524</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b12.mp3" length="29446666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130509-1045.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b12.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b12.mp3" fileSize="29446666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2524" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01s8qx9</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Gnosticism</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Gnosticism, a sect associated with early Christianity. The Gnostics divided the universe into two domains: the visible world and the spiritual one. They believed that a special sort of knowledge, or gnosis, would enable them to escape the evils of the physical world and allow them access to the higher spiritual realm. The Gnostics were regarded as heretics by many of the Church Fathers, but their influence was important in defining the course of early Christianity. A major archaeological discovery in Egypt in the 1940s, when a large cache of Gnostic texts were found buried in an earthenware jar, enabled scholars to learn considerably more about their beliefs.

With:

Martin Palmer
Director of the International Consultancy on Religion, Education, and Culture

Caroline Humfress
Reader in History at Birkbeck College, University of London

Alastair Logan
Honorary University Fellow of the Department of Theology and Religion at the University of Exeter


Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Gnosticism, a sect associated with early Christianity.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Gnosticism, a sect associated with early Christianity. The Gnostics divided the universe into two domains: the visible world and the spiritual one. They believed that a special sort of knowledge, or gnosis, would enable them to escape the evils of the physical world and allow them access to the higher spiritual realm. The Gnostics were regarded as heretics by many of the Church Fathers, but their influence was important in defining the course of early Christianity. A major archaeological discovery in Egypt in the 1940s, when a large cache of Gnostic texts were found buried in an earthenware jar, enabled scholars to learn considerably more about their beliefs.

With:

Martin Palmer
Director of the International Consultancy on Religion, Education, and Culture

Caroline Humfress
Reader in History at Birkbeck College, University of London

Alastair Logan
Honorary University Fellow of the Department of Theology and Religion at the University of Exeter


Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 02 May 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2526</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b1b.mp3" length="29470000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130502-1045.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b1b.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b1b.mp3" fileSize="29470000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2526" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01s4rhz</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Montaigne</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Essays of Michel de Montaigne. Born near Bordeaux in 1533, Montaigne retired from a life of public service aged 38 and began to write. He called these short works 'essais', or 'attempts'; they deal with an eclectic range of subjects, from the dauntingly weighty to the apparently trivial. Although he never considered himself a philosopher, he is often now seen as one of the most outstanding Sceptical thinkers of early modern Europe. His approachable style, intelligence and subtle thought have made him one of the most widely admired writers of the Renaissance.

With:

David Wootton
Anniversary Professor of History at York University

Terence Cave
Emeritus Professor of French Literature at the University of Oxford

Felicity Green
Chancellor's Fellow in History at the University of Edinburgh.


Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the great French writer Michel de Montaigne.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Essays of Michel de Montaigne. Born near Bordeaux in 1533, Montaigne retired from a life of public service aged 38 and began to write. He called these short works 'essais', or 'attempts'; they deal with an eclectic range of subjects, from the dauntingly weighty to the apparently trivial. Although he never considered himself a philosopher, he is often now seen as one of the most outstanding Sceptical thinkers of early modern Europe. His approachable style, intelligence and subtle thought have made him one of the most widely admired writers of the Renaissance.

With:

David Wootton
Anniversary Professor of History at York University

Terence Cave
Emeritus Professor of French Literature at the University of Oxford

Felicity Green
Chancellor's Fellow in History at the University of Edinburgh.


Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 25 Apr 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2523</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b1j.mp3" length="29434999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130425-1045.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b1j.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b1j.mp3" fileSize="29434999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2523" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01s0qmj</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Putney Debates</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Putney Debates. For several weeks in late 1647, after the defeat of King Charles I in the first hostilities of the Civil War, representatives of the New Model Army and the radical Levellers met in a church in Putney to debate the future of England. There was much to discuss: who should be allowed to vote, civil liberties and religious freedom. The debates were inconclusive, but the ideas aired in Putney had a considerable influence on centuries of political thought.

With:

Justin Champion
Professor of the History of Early Modern Ideas at Royal Holloway, University of London

Ann Hughes 
Professor of Early Modern History at Keele University

Kate Peters 
Fellow in History at Murray Edwards College, Cambridge.



Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Putney Debates of 1647.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Putney Debates. For several weeks in late 1647, after the defeat of King Charles I in the first hostilities of the Civil War, representatives of the New Model Army and the radical Levellers met in a church in Putney to debate the future of England. There was much to discuss: who should be allowed to vote, civil liberties and religious freedom. The debates were inconclusive, but the ideas aired in Putney had a considerable influence on centuries of political thought.

With:

Justin Champion
Professor of the History of Early Modern Ideas at Royal Holloway, University of London

Ann Hughes 
Professor of Early Modern History at Keele University

Kate Peters 
Fellow in History at Murray Edwards College, Cambridge.



Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 18 Apr 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2516</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b1q.mp3" length="29353333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130418-1115.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b1q.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b1q.mp3" fileSize="29353333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2516" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01rw1k7</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Amazons</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Amazons, a tribe of formidable female warriors first described in Greek literature. They appear in the Homeric epics and were described by Herodotus, and featured prominently in the decoration of Greek vases and public buildings. In later centuries, particularly in the Renaissance, the Amazons became a popular theme of literature and art. After the discovery of the New World, the largest river in South America was named the Amazon, since the warlike tribes inhabiting the river's margins reminded Spanish pioneers of the warriors of classical myth.

With:

Paul Cartledge
A.G. Leventis Professor of Greek Culture at Cambridge University

Chiara Franceschini
Teaching Fellow at University College London and an Academic Assistant at the Warburg Institute

Caroline Vout
University Senior Lecturer in Classics and Fellow and Director of Studies at Christ's College, Cambridge.


Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Amazons, formidable female warriors of classical myth.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Amazons, a tribe of formidable female warriors first described in Greek literature. They appear in the Homeric epics and were described by Herodotus, and featured prominently in the decoration of Greek vases and public buildings. In later centuries, particularly in the Renaissance, the Amazons became a popular theme of literature and art. After the discovery of the New World, the largest river in South America was named the Amazon, since the warlike tribes inhabiting the river's margins reminded Spanish pioneers of the warriors of classical myth.

With:

Paul Cartledge
A.G. Leventis Professor of Greek Culture at Cambridge University

Chiara Franceschini
Teaching Fellow at University College London and an Academic Assistant at the Warburg Institute

Caroline Vout
University Senior Lecturer in Classics and Fellow and Director of Studies at Christ's College, Cambridge.


Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 11 Apr 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2532</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b1v.mp3" length="29540000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130411-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b1v.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b1v.mp3" fileSize="29540000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2532" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01rr7r7</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Japan's Sakoku Period</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Japan's Sakoku period, two centuries when the country deliberately isolated itself from the Western world. Sakoku began with a series of edicts in the 1630s which restricted the rights of Japanese to leave their country and expelled most of the Europeans living there. For the next two hundred years, Dutch traders were the only Westerners free to live in Japan. It was not until 1858 and the gunboat diplomacy of the American Commodore Matthew Perry that Japan's international isolation finally ended. Although historians used to think of Japan as completely isolated from external influence during this period, recent scholarship suggests that Japanese society was far less isolated from European ideas during this period than previously thought.

With:

Richard Bowring
Emeritus Professor of Japanese Studies at the University of Cambridge

Andrew Cobbing
Associate Professor of History at the University of Nottingham

Rebekah Clements
Research Fellow of Queens' College and Research Associate at the Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies at the University of Cambridge.


Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Japan's Sakoku period of deliberate isolation.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Japan's Sakoku period, two centuries when the country deliberately isolated itself from the Western world. Sakoku began with a series of edicts in the 1630s which restricted the rights of Japanese to leave their country and expelled most of the Europeans living there. For the next two hundred years, Dutch traders were the only Westerners free to live in Japan. It was not until 1858 and the gunboat diplomacy of the American Commodore Matthew Perry that Japan's international isolation finally ended. Although historians used to think of Japan as completely isolated from external influence during this period, recent scholarship suggests that Japanese society was far less isolated from European ideas during this period than previously thought.

With:

Richard Bowring
Emeritus Professor of Japanese Studies at the University of Cambridge

Andrew Cobbing
Associate Professor of History at the University of Nottingham

Rebekah Clements
Research Fellow of Queens' College and Research Associate at the Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies at the University of Cambridge.


Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 04 Apr 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2522</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b24.mp3" length="29423333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130404-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b24.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b24.mp3" fileSize="29423333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2522" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01rlptf</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Water</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss one of the simplest and most remarkable of all molecules: water.  Water is among the most abundant substances on Earth, covering more than two-thirds of the planet.  Consisting of just three atoms, the water molecule is superficially simple in its structure but extraordinary in its properties.  It is a rare example of a substance that can be found on Earth in gaseous, liquid and solid forms, and thanks to its unique chemical behaviour is the basis of all known life.  Scientists are still discovering new things about it, such as the fact that there are at least fifteen different forms of ice.

Hasok Chang
Hans Rausing Professor of History and Philosophy of Science at the University of Cambridge

Andrea Sella
Professor of Chemistry at University College London

Patricia Hunt
Senior Lecturer in Chemistry at Imperial College London.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss water, one of the most remarkable of all molecules.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss one of the simplest and most remarkable of all molecules: water.  Water is among the most abundant substances on Earth, covering more than two-thirds of the planet.  Consisting of just three atoms, the water molecule is superficially simple in its structure but extraordinary in its properties.  It is a rare example of a substance that can be found on Earth in gaseous, liquid and solid forms, and thanks to its unique chemical behaviour is the basis of all known life.  Scientists are still discovering new things about it, such as the fact that there are at least fifteen different forms of ice.

Hasok Chang
Hans Rausing Professor of History and Philosophy of Science at the University of Cambridge

Andrea Sella
Professor of Chemistry at University College London

Patricia Hunt
Senior Lecturer in Chemistry at Imperial College London.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 28 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2346</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b2c.mp3" length="27370000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130328-1200.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b2c.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b2c.mp3" fileSize="27370000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2346" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01rgm9g</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Alfred Russel Wallace</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the work of Alfred Russel Wallace, a pioneer of evolutionary theory. Born in 1823, Wallace travelled extensively, charting the distribution of animal species throughout the world. This fieldwork in the Amazon and later the Malay Archipelago led him to formulate a theory of evolution through natural selection. In 1858 he sent the paper he wrote on the subject to Charles Darwin, who was spurred into the writing and publication of his own masterpiece On the Origin of Species. Wallace was also the founder of the science of biogeography and made important discoveries about the nature of animal coloration. But despite his visionary work, Wallace has been overshadowed by the greater fame of his contemporary Darwin.

With:

Steve Jones
Emeritus Professor of Genetics at University College London

George Beccaloni
Curator of Cockroaches and Related Insects and Director of the Wallace Correspondence Project at the Natural History Museum

Ted Benton
Professor of Sociology at the University of Essex

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the work of the biologist Alfred Russel Wallace.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the work of Alfred Russel Wallace, a pioneer of evolutionary theory. Born in 1823, Wallace travelled extensively, charting the distribution of animal species throughout the world. This fieldwork in the Amazon and later the Malay Archipelago led him to formulate a theory of evolution through natural selection. In 1858 he sent the paper he wrote on the subject to Charles Darwin, who was spurred into the writing and publication of his own masterpiece On the Origin of Species. Wallace was also the founder of the science of biogeography and made important discoveries about the nature of animal coloration. But despite his visionary work, Wallace has been overshadowed by the greater fame of his contemporary Darwin.

With:

Steve Jones
Emeritus Professor of Genetics at University College London

George Beccaloni
Curator of Cockroaches and Related Insects and Director of the Wallace Correspondence Project at the Natural History Museum

Ted Benton
Professor of Sociology at the University of Essex

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 21 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2529</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b2w.mp3" length="29504999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130321-1115.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b2w.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b2w.mp3" fileSize="29504999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2529" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01r9rxr</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Chekhov</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and work of Anton Chekhov.  Born in 1860, Chekhov trained as a doctor and for most of his adult life divided his time between medicine and writing.  Best known for plays including The Cherry Orchard and Three Sisters, he is also celebrated today as one of the greatest of short story writers.  His works are often powerful character studies and chronicle the changing nature of Russian society in the late nineteenth century.

With:

Catriona Kelly
Professor of Russian at the University of Oxford

Cynthia Marsh
Emeritus Professor of Russian Drama and Literature at the University of Nottingham

Rosamund Bartlett
Founding Director of the Anton Chekhov Foundation and former Reader in Russian at the University of Durham.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and work of the Russian writer Anton Chekhov.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and work of Anton Chekhov.  Born in 1860, Chekhov trained as a doctor and for most of his adult life divided his time between medicine and writing.  Best known for plays including The Cherry Orchard and Three Sisters, he is also celebrated today as one of the greatest of short story writers.  His works are often powerful character studies and chronicle the changing nature of Russian society in the late nineteenth century.

With:

Catriona Kelly
Professor of Russian at the University of Oxford

Cynthia Marsh
Emeritus Professor of Russian Drama and Literature at the University of Nottingham

Rosamund Bartlett
Founding Director of the Anton Chekhov Foundation and former Reader in Russian at the University of Durham.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2523</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b33.mp3" length="29434999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130314-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b33.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b33.mp3" fileSize="29434999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2523" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01r5qc1</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Absolute Zero</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss absolute zero, the lowest conceivable temperature.  In the early eighteenth century the French physicist Guillaume Amontons suggested that temperature had a lower limit.  The subject of low temperature became a fertile field of research in the nineteenth century, and today we know that this limit - known as absolute zero - is approximately minus 273 degrees Celsius.  It is impossible to produce a temperature exactly equal to absolute zero, but today scientists have come to within a billionth of a degree.  At such low temperatures physicists have discovered a number of strange new phenomena including superfluids, liquids capable of climbing a vertical surface.

With:

Simon Schaffer
Professor of the History of Science at the University of Cambridge

Stephen Blundell
Professor of Physics at the University of Oxford

Nicola Wilkin
Lecturer in Theoretical Physics at the University of Birmingham

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss absolute zero, the theoretical lowest possible temperature</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss absolute zero, the lowest conceivable temperature.  In the early eighteenth century the French physicist Guillaume Amontons suggested that temperature had a lower limit.  The subject of low temperature became a fertile field of research in the nineteenth century, and today we know that this limit - known as absolute zero - is approximately minus 273 degrees Celsius.  It is impossible to produce a temperature exactly equal to absolute zero, but today scientists have come to within a billionth of a degree.  At such low temperatures physicists have discovered a number of strange new phenomena including superfluids, liquids capable of climbing a vertical surface.

With:

Simon Schaffer
Professor of the History of Science at the University of Cambridge

Stephen Blundell
Professor of Physics at the University of Oxford

Nicola Wilkin
Lecturer in Theoretical Physics at the University of Birmingham

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 07 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2531</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b3s.mp3" length="29528333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130307-1100.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b3s.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b3s.mp3" fileSize="29528333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2531" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01r113g</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Pitt-Rivers</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and work of the Victorian anthropologist and archaeologist Augustus Pitt-Rivers.  Over many years he amassed thousands of ethnographic and archaeological objects, some of which formed the founding collection of the Pitt Rivers Museum at Oxford University.  Inspired by the work of Charles Darwin, Pitt-Rivers believed that human technology evolved in the same way as living organisms, and devoted much of his life to exploring this theory.  He was also a pioneering archaeologist whose meticulous records of major excavations provided a model for later scholars.  

With:

Adam Kuper
Visiting Professor of Anthropology at Boston University

Richard Bradley
Professor in Archaeology at the University of Reading

Dan Hicks
University Lecturer &amp; Curator of Archaeology at the Pitt Rivers Museum at the University of Oxford.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Victorian archaeologist Augustus Pitt-Rivers.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and work of the Victorian anthropologist and archaeologist Augustus Pitt-Rivers.  Over many years he amassed thousands of ethnographic and archaeological objects, some of which formed the founding collection of the Pitt Rivers Museum at Oxford University.  Inspired by the work of Charles Darwin, Pitt-Rivers believed that human technology evolved in the same way as living organisms, and devoted much of his life to exploring this theory.  He was also a pioneering archaeologist whose meticulous records of major excavations provided a model for later scholars.  

With:

Adam Kuper
Visiting Professor of Anthropology at Boston University

Richard Bradley
Professor in Archaeology at the University of Reading

Dan Hicks
University Lecturer &amp; Curator of Archaeology at the Pitt Rivers Museum at the University of Oxford.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2501</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b47.mp3" length="29178333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130228-1045.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b47.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b47.mp3" fileSize="29178333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2501" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01qwgxx</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Decline and Fall</title> <description>David Bradshaw, John Bowen and Ann Pasternak Slater join Melvyn Bragg to discuss Evelyn Waugh's comic novel Decline and Fall. Set partly in a substandard boys' public school, the novel is a vivid, often riotous portrait of 1920s Britain. Its themes, including modernity, religion and fashionable society, came to dominate Waugh's later fiction, but its savage wit and economy of style were entirely new. Published when Waugh was 24, the book was immediately celebrated for its vicious satire and biting humour.

With:

David Bradshaw
Professor of English Literature at Worcester College, Oxford

John Bowen
Professor of Nineteenth-Century Literature at the University of York

Ann Pasternak Slater
Senior Research Fellow at St Anne's College, Oxford.


Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Evelyn Waugh's comic novel Decline and Fall.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>David Bradshaw, John Bowen and Ann Pasternak Slater join Melvyn Bragg to discuss Evelyn Waugh's comic novel Decline and Fall. Set partly in a substandard boys' public school, the novel is a vivid, often riotous portrait of 1920s Britain. Its themes, including modernity, religion and fashionable society, came to dominate Waugh's later fiction, but its savage wit and economy of style were entirely new. Published when Waugh was 24, the book was immediately celebrated for its vicious satire and biting humour.

With:

David Bradshaw
Professor of English Literature at Worcester College, Oxford

John Bowen
Professor of Nineteenth-Century Literature at the University of York

Ann Pasternak Slater
Senior Research Fellow at St Anne's College, Oxford.


Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2518</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b4s.mp3" length="29376666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130221-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b4s.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b4s.mp3" fileSize="29376666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2518" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01qmbsc</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Ice Ages</title> <description>Jane Francis, Richard Corfield and Carrie Lear join Melvyn Bragg to discuss ice ages, periods when a reduction in the surface temperature of the Earth has resulted in ice sheets at the Poles. Although the term 'ice age' is commonly associated with prehistoric eras when much of northern Europe was covered in ice, we are in fact currently in an ice age which began up to 40 million years ago. Geological evidence indicates that there have been several in the Earth's history, although their precise cause is not known. Ice ages have had profound effects on the geography and biology of our planet.

With:

Jane Francis
Professor of Paleoclimatology at the University of Leeds

Richard Corfield
Visiting Research Fellow in the Department of Earth Sciences at Oxford University

Carrie Lear
Senior Lecturer in Palaeoceanography at Cardiff University.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss ice ages.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Jane Francis, Richard Corfield and Carrie Lear join Melvyn Bragg to discuss ice ages, periods when a reduction in the surface temperature of the Earth has resulted in ice sheets at the Poles. Although the term 'ice age' is commonly associated with prehistoric eras when much of northern Europe was covered in ice, we are in fact currently in an ice age which began up to 40 million years ago. Geological evidence indicates that there have been several in the Earth's history, although their precise cause is not known. Ice ages have had profound effects on the geography and biology of our planet.

With:

Jane Francis
Professor of Paleoclimatology at the University of Leeds

Richard Corfield
Visiting Research Fellow in the Department of Earth Sciences at Oxford University

Carrie Lear
Senior Lecturer in Palaeoceanography at Cardiff University.

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 14 Feb 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2530</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b5c.mp3" length="29516666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130214-1145.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b5c.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b5c.mp3" fileSize="29516666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2530" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01qjj99</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Epicureanism</title> <description>Angie Hobbs, David Sedley and James Warren join Melvyn Bragg to discuss Epicureanism, the system of philosophy based on the teachings of Epicurus and founded in Athens in the fourth century BC.  Epicurus outlined a comprehensive philosophical system based on the idea that everything in the Universe is constructed from  two phenomena: atoms and void.  At the centre of his philosophy is the idea that the goal of human life is pleasure, by which he meant not luxury but the avoidance of pain.  His followers were suspicious of marriage and politics but placed great emphasis on friendship.  Epicureanism became influential in the Roman world, particularly through Lucretius's great poem De Rerum Natura, which was rediscovered and widely admired in the Renaissance.

With:

Angie Hobbs
Professor of the Public Understanding of Philosophy at the University of Sheffield

David Sedley
Laurence Professor of Ancient Philosophy at the University of Cambridge

James Warren
Reader in Ancient Philosophy at the University of Cambridge

Producer:  Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the philosophy of Epicureanism.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Angie Hobbs, David Sedley and James Warren join Melvyn Bragg to discuss Epicureanism, the system of philosophy based on the teachings of Epicurus and founded in Athens in the fourth century BC.  Epicurus outlined a comprehensive philosophical system based on the idea that everything in the Universe is constructed from  two phenomena: atoms and void.  At the centre of his philosophy is the idea that the goal of human life is pleasure, by which he meant not luxury but the avoidance of pain.  His followers were suspicious of marriage and politics but placed great emphasis on friendship.  Epicureanism became influential in the Roman world, particularly through Lucretius's great poem De Rerum Natura, which was rediscovered and widely admired in the Renaissance.

With:

Angie Hobbs
Professor of the Public Understanding of Philosophy at the University of Sheffield

David Sedley
Laurence Professor of Ancient Philosophy at the University of Cambridge

James Warren
Reader in Ancient Philosophy at the University of Cambridge

Producer:  Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 07 Feb 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2532</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b5p.mp3" length="29540000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130207-1100.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b5p.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b5p.mp3" fileSize="29540000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2532" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01qf083</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The War of 1812</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the War of 1812, the conflict between America and the British Empire sometimes referred to as the second American War of Independence. In June 1812, President James Madison declared war on Britain, angered by the restrictions Britain had imposed on American trade, the Royal Navy's capture of American sailors and British support for Native Americans. After three years of largely inconclusive fighting, the conflict finally came to an end with the Treaty of Ghent which, among other things, helped to hasten the abolition of the global slave trade.
 
Although the War of 1812 is often overlooked, historians say it had a profound effect on the USA and Canada's sense of national identity, confirming the USA as an independent country. America's national anthem, The Star-Spangled Banner began life as a poem written after its author, Francis Scott Key, witnessed the British bombardment of Fort McHenry during the Battle of Baltimore. The war also led to Native Americans losing hundreds of thousands of acres of land in a programme of forced removal.
 
With:
 
Kathleen Burk
Professor of Modern and Contemporary History at University College London
 
Lawrence Goldman
Fellow in Modern History at St Peter's College, University of Oxford
 
Frank Cogliano
Professor of American History at the University of Edinburgh
 
Producer: Victoria Brignell.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the War of 1812 between America and Great Britain.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the War of 1812, the conflict between America and the British Empire sometimes referred to as the second American War of Independence. In June 1812, President James Madison declared war on Britain, angered by the restrictions Britain had imposed on American trade, the Royal Navy's capture of American sailors and British support for Native Americans. After three years of largely inconclusive fighting, the conflict finally came to an end with the Treaty of Ghent which, among other things, helped to hasten the abolition of the global slave trade.
 
Although the War of 1812 is often overlooked, historians say it had a profound effect on the USA and Canada's sense of national identity, confirming the USA as an independent country. America's national anthem, The Star-Spangled Banner began life as a poem written after its author, Francis Scott Key, witnessed the British bombardment of Fort McHenry during the Battle of Baltimore. The war also led to Native Americans losing hundreds of thousands of acres of land in a programme of forced removal.
 
With:
 
Kathleen Burk
Professor of Modern and Contemporary History at University College London
 
Lawrence Goldman
Fellow in Modern History at St Peter's College, University of Oxford
 
Frank Cogliano
Professor of American History at the University of Edinburgh
 
Producer: Victoria Brignell.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2529</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b5x.mp3" length="29504999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130131-1045.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b5x.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b5x.mp3" fileSize="29504999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2529" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01q95s0</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Romulus and Remus</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Romulus and Remus, the central figures of the foundation myth of Rome.  According to tradition, the twins were abandoned by their parents as babies, but were saved by a she-wolf who found and nursed them.   Romulus killed his brother after a vicious quarrel, and went on to found a city, which was named after him.

The myth has been at the core of Roman identity since the 1st century AD, although the details vary in different versions of the story.  For many Roman writers, the story embodied the ethos and institutions of their civilisation.   The image of the she-wolf suckling the divinely fathered twins remains a potent icon of the city even today.

With:

Mary Beard
Professor of Classics at the University of Cambridge
 
Peter Wiseman
Emeritus Professor of Classics and Ancient History at the University of Exeter
 
Tim Cornell
Emeritus Professor of Ancient History at the University of Manchester.


Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Romulus and Remus, the foundation myth of Rome.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Romulus and Remus, the central figures of the foundation myth of Rome.  According to tradition, the twins were abandoned by their parents as babies, but were saved by a she-wolf who found and nursed them.   Romulus killed his brother after a vicious quarrel, and went on to found a city, which was named after him.

The myth has been at the core of Roman identity since the 1st century AD, although the details vary in different versions of the story.  For many Roman writers, the story embodied the ethos and institutions of their civilisation.   The image of the she-wolf suckling the divinely fathered twins remains a potent icon of the city even today.

With:

Mary Beard
Professor of Classics at the University of Cambridge
 
Peter Wiseman
Emeritus Professor of Classics and Ancient History at the University of Exeter
 
Tim Cornell
Emeritus Professor of Ancient History at the University of Manchester.


Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 24 Jan 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2531</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b69.mp3" length="29528333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130124-1045.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b69.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b69.mp3" fileSize="29528333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2531" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01q02t7</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Comets</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss comets, the 'dirty snowballs' of the Solar System. In the early 18th century the Astronomer Royal Sir Edmond Halley compiled a list of appearances of comets, bright objects like stars with long tails which are occasionally visible in the night sky. He concluded that many of these apparitions were in fact the same comet, which returns to our skies around every 75 years, and whose reappearance he correctly predicted. Halley's Comet is today the best known example of a comet, a body of ice and dust which orbits the Sun. Since they contain materials from the time when the Solar System was formed, comets are regarded by scientists as frozen time capsules, with the potential to reveal important information about the early history of our planet and others.

With:

Monica Grady
Professor of Planetary and Space Sciences at the Open University

Paul Murdin
Senior Fellow at the Institute of Astronomy at the University of Cambridge

Don Pollacco
Professor of Astronomy at the University of Warwick

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss comets, the 'dirty snowballs' of the solar system.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss comets, the 'dirty snowballs' of the Solar System. In the early 18th century the Astronomer Royal Sir Edmond Halley compiled a list of appearances of comets, bright objects like stars with long tails which are occasionally visible in the night sky. He concluded that many of these apparitions were in fact the same comet, which returns to our skies around every 75 years, and whose reappearance he correctly predicted. Halley's Comet is today the best known example of a comet, a body of ice and dust which orbits the Sun. Since they contain materials from the time when the Solar System was formed, comets are regarded by scientists as frozen time capsules, with the potential to reveal important information about the early history of our planet and others.

With:

Monica Grady
Professor of Planetary and Space Sciences at the Open University

Paul Murdin
Senior Fellow at the Institute of Astronomy at the University of Cambridge

Don Pollacco
Professor of Astronomy at the University of Warwick

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 17 Jan 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2533</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b6n.mp3" length="29551666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130117-1100.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b6n.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b6n.mp3" fileSize="29551666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2533" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01pw38n</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Le Morte d'Arthur</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Thomas Malory's &quot;Le Morte Darthur&quot;, the epic tale of King Arthur and his knights of the Round Table. Sir Thomas Malory was a knight from Warwickshire, a respectable country gentleman and MP in the 1440s who later turned to a life of crime and spent various spells in prison. It was during Malory's final incarceration that he wrote &quot;Le Morte Darthur&quot;, an epic work which was based primarily on French, but also some English, sources. 

Malory died shortly after his release in 1470 and it was to be another fifteen years before &quot;Le Morte Darthur&quot; was published by William Caxton, to immediate popular acclaim. Although the book fell from favour in the seventeenth century, it was revived again in Victorian times and became an inspiration for the Pre-Raphaelite movement who were entranced by the chivalric and romantic world that Malory portrayed. 

The Arthurian legend is one of the most enduring and popular in western literature and its characters - Sir Lancelot, Guinevere, Merlin and King Arthur himself, are as well-known today as they were then; and the book's themes - chivalry, betrayal, love and honour - remain as compelling.

With: 

Helen Cooper 
Professor of Medieval and Renaissance English at the University of Cambridge

Helen Fulton
Professor of Medieval Literature and Head of Department of English and Related Literature at the University of York

Laura Ashe
CUF Lecturer and Tutorial Fellow at Worcester College at the University of Oxford


Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Malory's epic medieval tale Le Morte d'Arthur.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Thomas Malory's &quot;Le Morte Darthur&quot;, the epic tale of King Arthur and his knights of the Round Table. Sir Thomas Malory was a knight from Warwickshire, a respectable country gentleman and MP in the 1440s who later turned to a life of crime and spent various spells in prison. It was during Malory's final incarceration that he wrote &quot;Le Morte Darthur&quot;, an epic work which was based primarily on French, but also some English, sources. 

Malory died shortly after his release in 1470 and it was to be another fifteen years before &quot;Le Morte Darthur&quot; was published by William Caxton, to immediate popular acclaim. Although the book fell from favour in the seventeenth century, it was revived again in Victorian times and became an inspiration for the Pre-Raphaelite movement who were entranced by the chivalric and romantic world that Malory portrayed. 

The Arthurian legend is one of the most enduring and popular in western literature and its characters - Sir Lancelot, Guinevere, Merlin and King Arthur himself, are as well-known today as they were then; and the book's themes - chivalry, betrayal, love and honour - remain as compelling.

With: 

Helen Cooper 
Professor of Medieval and Renaissance English at the University of Cambridge

Helen Fulton
Professor of Medieval Literature and Head of Department of English and Related Literature at the University of York

Laura Ashe
CUF Lecturer and Tutorial Fellow at Worcester College at the University of Oxford


Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 10 Jan 2013 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2527</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b6z.mp3" length="29481666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20130110-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b6z.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b6z.mp3" fileSize="29481666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2527" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01pp989</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Cult of Mithras</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the cult of Mithras, a mystery religion that existed in the Roman Empire from the 1st to the 4th centuries AD. Also known as the Mysteries of Mithras, its origins are uncertain. Academics have suggested a link with the ancient Vedic god Mitra and the Iranian Zoroastrian deity Mithra, but the extent and nature of the connection is a matter of controversy. 

Followers of Mithras are thought to have taken part in various rituals, most notably communal meals and a complex seven-stage initiation system. Typical depictions of Mithras show him being born from a rock, enjoying food with the sun god Sol and stabbing a bull. Mithraic places of worship have been found throughout the Roman world, including an impressive example in London. However, Mithraism went into decline in the 4th century AD with the rise of Christianity and eventually completely disappeared. In recent decades, many aspects of the cult have provoked debate, especially as there are no written accounts by its members. As a result, archaeology has been of great importance in the study of Mithraism and has provided new insights into the religion and its adherents. 

With:

Greg Woolf
Professor of Ancient History at the University of St Andrews

Almut Hintze 
Zartoshty Professor of Zoroastrianism at SOAS, University of London

John North
Acting Director of the Institute of Classical Studies, University of London.

Producer: Victoria Brignell.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the cult of Mithras, the Roman mystery religion.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the cult of Mithras, a mystery religion that existed in the Roman Empire from the 1st to the 4th centuries AD. Also known as the Mysteries of Mithras, its origins are uncertain. Academics have suggested a link with the ancient Vedic god Mitra and the Iranian Zoroastrian deity Mithra, but the extent and nature of the connection is a matter of controversy. 

Followers of Mithras are thought to have taken part in various rituals, most notably communal meals and a complex seven-stage initiation system. Typical depictions of Mithras show him being born from a rock, enjoying food with the sun god Sol and stabbing a bull. Mithraic places of worship have been found throughout the Roman world, including an impressive example in London. However, Mithraism went into decline in the 4th century AD with the rise of Christianity and eventually completely disappeared. In recent decades, many aspects of the cult have provoked debate, especially as there are no written accounts by its members. As a result, archaeology has been of great importance in the study of Mithraism and has provided new insights into the religion and its adherents. 

With:

Greg Woolf
Professor of Ancient History at the University of St Andrews

Almut Hintze 
Zartoshty Professor of Zoroastrianism at SOAS, University of London

John North
Acting Director of the Institute of Classical Studies, University of London.

Producer: Victoria Brignell.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 27 Dec 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2532</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b75.mp3" length="29540000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20121227-1100.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b75.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b75.mp3" fileSize="29540000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2532" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01pg5nt</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The South Sea Bubble</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss The South Sea Bubble, the speculation mania in early 18th-century England which ended in the financial ruin of many of its investors. The South Sea Company was founded in 1711 with a view to restructuring government debt and restoring public credit. The company would ostensibly trade with South America, hence its name; and indeed, it did trade in slaves for the Spanish market even after the Bubble burst in 1720. 

People from all walks of life bought shares in the South Sea Company, from servants to gentry, and it was said the entire country was gripped by South Sea speculation mania. When the shares crashed and the company collapsed there was a public outcry and many people faced financial ruin, although some investors sold before the crash and made substantial amounts of money. For example, the bookseller Thomas Guy made his fortune and founded a hospital in his name the following year. 

But how did such a financial crisis develop and were there any lessons learnt following this early example of a stock market boom and bust?

With:

Anne Murphy
Senior Lecturer in History at the University of Hertfordshire

Helen Paul 
Lecturer in Economics and Economic History at the University of Southampton

Roey Sweet 
Head of the School of History at the University of Leicester

Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the South Sea Bubble of the early 18th century.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss The South Sea Bubble, the speculation mania in early 18th-century England which ended in the financial ruin of many of its investors. The South Sea Company was founded in 1711 with a view to restructuring government debt and restoring public credit. The company would ostensibly trade with South America, hence its name; and indeed, it did trade in slaves for the Spanish market even after the Bubble burst in 1720. 

People from all walks of life bought shares in the South Sea Company, from servants to gentry, and it was said the entire country was gripped by South Sea speculation mania. When the shares crashed and the company collapsed there was a public outcry and many people faced financial ruin, although some investors sold before the crash and made substantial amounts of money. For example, the bookseller Thomas Guy made his fortune and founded a hospital in his name the following year. 

But how did such a financial crisis develop and were there any lessons learnt following this early example of a stock market boom and bust?

With:

Anne Murphy
Senior Lecturer in History at the University of Hertfordshire

Helen Paul 
Lecturer in Economics and Economic History at the University of Southampton

Roey Sweet 
Head of the School of History at the University of Leicester

Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 20 Dec 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2512</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b7n.mp3" length="29306666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20121220-1300.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b7n.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b7n.mp3" fileSize="29306666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2512" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01pcs5g</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Shahnameh of Ferdowsi</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the epic poem the Shahnameh of Ferdowsi, the 'Book of Kings', which has been at the heart of Persian culture for the past thousand years. The poem recounts a legendary history of Iran from the dawn of time to the fall of the Persian Empire in the 7th century and serves, in a sense, as a creation myth for the Persian nation. 

The Shahnameh took Ferdowsi thirty years to write and, consisting of over 50,000 verses, is said to be the longest poem ever written by a single author. Laced with tragedy, Ferdowsi's epic chronicles battles, romances, family rifts and Man's interior struggle with himself. Although the stories may not always be true they have a profound resonance with Iranians even today, and the poem has been referred to as both the 'encyclopaedia of Iranian culture' and the identity card of the Persian people. 

With:

Narguess Farzad 
Senior Fellow in Persian at SOAS, University of London

Charles Melville
Professor of Persian History at Pembroke College at the University of Cambridge

Vesta Sarkhosh Curtis
Curator of Middle Eastern Coins at the British Museum 

Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Persian epic poem, the Shahnameh of Ferdowsi.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the epic poem the Shahnameh of Ferdowsi, the 'Book of Kings', which has been at the heart of Persian culture for the past thousand years. The poem recounts a legendary history of Iran from the dawn of time to the fall of the Persian Empire in the 7th century and serves, in a sense, as a creation myth for the Persian nation. 

The Shahnameh took Ferdowsi thirty years to write and, consisting of over 50,000 verses, is said to be the longest poem ever written by a single author. Laced with tragedy, Ferdowsi's epic chronicles battles, romances, family rifts and Man's interior struggle with himself. Although the stories may not always be true they have a profound resonance with Iranians even today, and the poem has been referred to as both the 'encyclopaedia of Iranian culture' and the identity card of the Persian people. 

With:

Narguess Farzad 
Senior Fellow in Persian at SOAS, University of London

Charles Melville
Professor of Persian History at Pembroke College at the University of Cambridge

Vesta Sarkhosh Curtis
Curator of Middle Eastern Coins at the British Museum 

Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 13 Dec 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2526</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b84.mp3" length="29470000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20121213-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b84.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b84.mp3" fileSize="29470000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2526" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01p7dcv</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Bertrand Russell</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the influential British philosopher Bertrand Russell. Born in 1872 into an aristocratic family, Russell is widely regarded as one of the founders of Analytic philosophy, which is today the dominant philosophical tradition in the English-speaking world. In his important book The Principles of Mathematics, he sought to reduce mathematics to logic. Its revolutionary ideas include Russell's Paradox, a problem which inspired Ludwig Wittgenstein to pursue philosophy. Russell's most significant and famous idea, the theory of descriptions, had profound consequences for the discipline.

In addition to his academic work, Russell played an active role in many social and political campaigns. He supported women's suffrage, was imprisoned for his pacifism during World War I and was a founder of the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament. He wrote a number of books aimed at the general public, including The History of Western Philosophy which became enormously popular, and in 1950 he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature. Russell's many appearances on the BBC also helped to promote the public understanding of ideas.

With: 

AC Grayling
Master of the New College of the Humanities and a Supernumerary Fellow of St Anne's College, Oxford

Mike Beaney 
Professor of Philosophy at the University of York 

Hilary Greaves
Lecturer in Philosophy and Fellow of Somerville College, Oxford 

Producer: Victoria Brignell.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss influential British philosopher Bertrand Russell.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the influential British philosopher Bertrand Russell. Born in 1872 into an aristocratic family, Russell is widely regarded as one of the founders of Analytic philosophy, which is today the dominant philosophical tradition in the English-speaking world. In his important book The Principles of Mathematics, he sought to reduce mathematics to logic. Its revolutionary ideas include Russell's Paradox, a problem which inspired Ludwig Wittgenstein to pursue philosophy. Russell's most significant and famous idea, the theory of descriptions, had profound consequences for the discipline.

In addition to his academic work, Russell played an active role in many social and political campaigns. He supported women's suffrage, was imprisoned for his pacifism during World War I and was a founder of the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament. He wrote a number of books aimed at the general public, including The History of Western Philosophy which became enormously popular, and in 1950 he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature. Russell's many appearances on the BBC also helped to promote the public understanding of ideas.

With: 

AC Grayling
Master of the New College of the Humanities and a Supernumerary Fellow of St Anne's College, Oxford

Mike Beaney 
Professor of Philosophy at the University of York 

Hilary Greaves
Lecturer in Philosophy and Fellow of Somerville College, Oxford 

Producer: Victoria Brignell.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2535</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b8g.mp3" length="29575000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20121206-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b8g.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5b8g.mp3" fileSize="29575000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2535" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01p8fsr</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Crystallography</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the history of crystallography, the study of crystals and their structure. The discovery in the early 20th century that X-rays could be diffracted by a crystal revolutionised our knowledge of materials. This crystal technology has touched most people's lives, thanks to the vital role it plays in diverse scientific disciplines - from physics and chemistry, to molecular biology and mineralogy. To date, 28 Nobel Prizes have been awarded to scientists working with X-ray crystallography, an indication of its crucial importance. 

The history of crystallography began with the work of Johannes Kepler in the 17th century, but perhaps the most crucial leap in understanding came with the work of the father-and-son team the Braggs in 1912. They built on the work of the German physicist Max von Laue who had proved that X-rays are a form of light waves and that it was possible to scatter these rays using a crystal. The Braggs undertook seminal experiments which transformed our perception of crystals and their atomic arrangements, and led to some of the most significant scientific findings of the last century - such as revealing the structure of DNA. 

With:

Judith Howard
Director of the Biophysical Sciences Institute and Professor of Chemistry at the University of Durham

Chris Hammond
Life Fellow in Material Science at the University of Leeds

Mike Glazer
Emeritus Professor of Physics at the University of Oxford and Visiting Professor of Physics at the University of Warwick

Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the history and achievements of crystallography.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the history of crystallography, the study of crystals and their structure. The discovery in the early 20th century that X-rays could be diffracted by a crystal revolutionised our knowledge of materials. This crystal technology has touched most people's lives, thanks to the vital role it plays in diverse scientific disciplines - from physics and chemistry, to molecular biology and mineralogy. To date, 28 Nobel Prizes have been awarded to scientists working with X-ray crystallography, an indication of its crucial importance. 

The history of crystallography began with the work of Johannes Kepler in the 17th century, but perhaps the most crucial leap in understanding came with the work of the father-and-son team the Braggs in 1912. They built on the work of the German physicist Max von Laue who had proved that X-rays are a form of light waves and that it was possible to scatter these rays using a crystal. The Braggs undertook seminal experiments which transformed our perception of crystals and their atomic arrangements, and led to some of the most significant scientific findings of the last century - such as revealing the structure of DNA. 

With:

Judith Howard
Director of the Biophysical Sciences Institute and Professor of Chemistry at the University of Durham

Chris Hammond
Life Fellow in Material Science at the University of Leeds

Mike Glazer
Emeritus Professor of Physics at the University of Oxford and Visiting Professor of Physics at the University of Warwick

Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 29 Nov 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2516</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c35.mp3" length="29353333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20121128-1718.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c35.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c35.mp3" fileSize="29353333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2516" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01p0s9s</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Borgias</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Borgias, the most notorious family in Renaissance Italy. Famed for their treachery and corruption, the Borgias produced two popes during their time of dominance in Rome in the late 15th century. The most well-known of these two popes is Alexander VI, previously Cardinal Rodrigo Borgia. He was accused of buying votes to elect him to the papacy and openly promoted his children in positions of power. Rodrigo's daughter, Lucrezia, is widely remembered as a ruthless poisoner; his son, Cesare, as a brutal soldier. 

Murder, intrigue and power politics characterised their rule, but many of the stories now told about their depraved behaviour and evil ways emerged after their demise and gave rise to the so-called 'Black Legend'. The sullied reputation of the Borgia dynasty endures even today and their lives have provided a major theme for plays, novels and over forty films.


With:

Evelyn Welch
Professor of Renaissance Studies at Queen Mary, University of London

Catherine Fletcher
Lecturer in Public History at the University of Sheffield

Christine Shaw
Honorary Research Fellow at Swansea University 

Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Borgias, the most infamous family in Renaissance Italy</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Borgias, the most notorious family in Renaissance Italy. Famed for their treachery and corruption, the Borgias produced two popes during their time of dominance in Rome in the late 15th century. The most well-known of these two popes is Alexander VI, previously Cardinal Rodrigo Borgia. He was accused of buying votes to elect him to the papacy and openly promoted his children in positions of power. Rodrigo's daughter, Lucrezia, is widely remembered as a ruthless poisoner; his son, Cesare, as a brutal soldier. 

Murder, intrigue and power politics characterised their rule, but many of the stories now told about their depraved behaviour and evil ways emerged after their demise and gave rise to the so-called 'Black Legend'. The sullied reputation of the Borgia dynasty endures even today and their lives have provided a major theme for plays, novels and over forty films.


With:

Evelyn Welch
Professor of Renaissance Studies at Queen Mary, University of London

Catherine Fletcher
Lecturer in Public History at the University of Sheffield

Christine Shaw
Honorary Research Fellow at Swansea University 

Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 22 Nov 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2518</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c3t.mp3" length="29376666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20121122-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c3t.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c3t.mp3" fileSize="29376666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2518" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01nzgjz</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Simone Weil</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the French philosopher and social activist Simone Weil. Born in Paris in 1909 into a wealthy, agnostic Jewish family, Weil was a precocious child and attended the prestigious Ecole Normale Superieure in Paris, achieving the top marks in her class (Simone de Beauvoir came second). 

Weil rejected her comfortable background and chose to work in fields and factories to experience the life of the working classes at first hand. She was acutely sensitive to human suffering and devoted her life to helping those less fortunate than herself. Despite her belief in pacifism she volunteered on the Republican side during the Spanish Civil War and later joined the French Resistance movement in England. 

Her philosophy was both complex and intense. She argued that the presence of evil and suffering in the world was evidence of God's love and that Man has no right to ask anything of God or of anyone whom they love. Love which expects reward was not love at all in Weil's eyes. 

Weil died of TB in Kent at the age of only 34. Her strict lifestyle and self-denial may have contributed to her early death. T.S Eliot said &quot;she was not just a woman of genius, but was a genius akin to that of a saint&quot;; Albert Camus believed she was &quot;the only great spirit of our time.&quot; 

With:

Beatrice Han-Pile
Professor of Philosophy at the University of Essex

Stephen Plant
Runcie Fellow and Dean of Trinity Hall at the University of Cambridge

David Levy
Teaching Fellow in the Department of Philosophy at the University of Edinburgh

Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the French philosopher and social activist Simone Weil.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the French philosopher and social activist Simone Weil. Born in Paris in 1909 into a wealthy, agnostic Jewish family, Weil was a precocious child and attended the prestigious Ecole Normale Superieure in Paris, achieving the top marks in her class (Simone de Beauvoir came second). 

Weil rejected her comfortable background and chose to work in fields and factories to experience the life of the working classes at first hand. She was acutely sensitive to human suffering and devoted her life to helping those less fortunate than herself. Despite her belief in pacifism she volunteered on the Republican side during the Spanish Civil War and later joined the French Resistance movement in England. 

Her philosophy was both complex and intense. She argued that the presence of evil and suffering in the world was evidence of God's love and that Man has no right to ask anything of God or of anyone whom they love. Love which expects reward was not love at all in Weil's eyes. 

Weil died of TB in Kent at the age of only 34. Her strict lifestyle and self-denial may have contributed to her early death. T.S Eliot said &quot;she was not just a woman of genius, but was a genius akin to that of a saint&quot;; Albert Camus believed she was &quot;the only great spirit of our time.&quot; 

With:

Beatrice Han-Pile
Professor of Philosophy at the University of Essex

Stephen Plant
Runcie Fellow and Dean of Trinity Hall at the University of Cambridge

David Levy
Teaching Fellow in the Department of Philosophy at the University of Edinburgh

Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 15 Nov 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2526</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c4b.mp3" length="29470000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20121115-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c4b.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c4b.mp3" fileSize="29470000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2526" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01nthz3</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Upanishads</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Upanishads, the ancient sacred texts of Hinduism. Dating from about 700 BC, the Upanishads were passed down through an oral tradition in priestly castes and were not written down until the 6th century AD. They constitute the final part of the Vedas, the collection of texts which form the foundation of the Indian Hindu world, and were originally spoken during sacrificial rituals.

Yet the Upanishads go beyond incantations performed during sacrifices, and ask profound questions about human existence and man's place in the cosmos. The concepts of Brahman (the universal cosmic power) and Atman (the deeper soul of the individual) are central to the understanding of the Upanishads. Each individual treatise has its own character. Some are poetic; some are scientific; others are dialogues between kings and sages or metaphysical reflections. More than one hundred Upanishads were produced, thirteen of which are regarded as the canonical scriptures of Hinduism.

With:

Jessica Frazier
Lecturer in Religious Studies at the University of Kent and a Research Fellow at the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies at the University of Oxford

Chakravarthi Ram-Prasad
Professor of Comparative Religion and Philosophy at Lancaster University

Simon Brodbeck
Lecturer in Religious Studies at the University of Cardiff

Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Upanishads, the sacred texts of Hinduism.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Upanishads, the ancient sacred texts of Hinduism. Dating from about 700 BC, the Upanishads were passed down through an oral tradition in priestly castes and were not written down until the 6th century AD. They constitute the final part of the Vedas, the collection of texts which form the foundation of the Indian Hindu world, and were originally spoken during sacrificial rituals.

Yet the Upanishads go beyond incantations performed during sacrifices, and ask profound questions about human existence and man's place in the cosmos. The concepts of Brahman (the universal cosmic power) and Atman (the deeper soul of the individual) are central to the understanding of the Upanishads. Each individual treatise has its own character. Some are poetic; some are scientific; others are dialogues between kings and sages or metaphysical reflections. More than one hundred Upanishads were produced, thirteen of which are regarded as the canonical scriptures of Hinduism.

With:

Jessica Frazier
Lecturer in Religious Studies at the University of Kent and a Research Fellow at the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies at the University of Oxford

Chakravarthi Ram-Prasad
Professor of Comparative Religion and Philosophy at Lancaster University

Simon Brodbeck
Lecturer in Religious Studies at the University of Cardiff

Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 08 Nov 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2520</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c52.mp3" length="29400000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20121108-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c52.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c52.mp3" fileSize="29400000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2520" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01nq7ct</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Anarchy</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss The Anarchy, the civil war that took place in mid-twelfth century England. The war began as a succession dispute between the Empress Matilda, daughter of Henry I, and her cousin, Stephen of Blois. On Henry's death Stephen seized the English throne and held it for a number of years before Matilda wrestled it from him, although she was chased out of London before she could be crowned. 

The Anarchy dragged on for nearly twenty years and is so called because of the chaos and lawlessness that characterised the period. Yet only one major battle ever took place, the Battle of Lincoln in 1141, and any other fighting associated with the conflict was fairly localised. This has led historians to question the accuracy of labelling the civil war as The Anarchy, a name only bestowed on the era in the 19th century. But why did Matilda fail to become the monarch, and what impact did it have on the way England was ruled in centuries to come?

With: 

John Gillingham
Emeritus Professor of History at the London School of Economics and Political Science

Louise Wilkinson
Reader in Medieval History at Canterbury Christ Church University

David Carpenter
Professor of Medieval History at Kings College London. 

Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss The Anarchy, the 12th-century English civil war.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss The Anarchy, the civil war that took place in mid-twelfth century England. The war began as a succession dispute between the Empress Matilda, daughter of Henry I, and her cousin, Stephen of Blois. On Henry's death Stephen seized the English throne and held it for a number of years before Matilda wrestled it from him, although she was chased out of London before she could be crowned. 

The Anarchy dragged on for nearly twenty years and is so called because of the chaos and lawlessness that characterised the period. Yet only one major battle ever took place, the Battle of Lincoln in 1141, and any other fighting associated with the conflict was fairly localised. This has led historians to question the accuracy of labelling the civil war as The Anarchy, a name only bestowed on the era in the 19th century. But why did Matilda fail to become the monarch, and what impact did it have on the way England was ruled in centuries to come?

With: 

John Gillingham
Emeritus Professor of History at the London School of Economics and Political Science

Louise Wilkinson
Reader in Medieval History at Canterbury Christ Church University

David Carpenter
Professor of Medieval History at Kings College London. 

Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 01 Nov 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2532</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c5d.mp3" length="29540000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20121101-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c5d.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c5d.mp3" fileSize="29540000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2532" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01nl963</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Fermat's Last Theorem</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Fermat's Last Theorem. In 1637 the French mathematician Pierre de Fermat scribbled a note in the margin of one of his books. He claimed to have proved a remarkable property of numbers, but gave no clue as to how he'd gone about it. &quot;I have found a wonderful demonstration of this proposition,&quot; he wrote, &quot;which this margin is too narrow to contain&quot;. Fermat's theorem became one of the most iconic problems in mathematics and for centuries mathematicians struggled in vain to work out what his proof had been. In the 19th century the French Academy of Sciences twice offered prize money and a gold medal to the person who could discover Fermat's proof; but it was not until 1995 that the puzzle was finally solved by the British mathematician Andrew Wiles. 

With:

Marcus du Sautoy
Professor of Mathematics &amp; Simonyi Professor for the Public Understanding of Science at the University of Oxford

Vicky Neale
Fellow and Director of Studies in Mathematics at Murray Edwards College at the University of Cambridge

Samir Siksek
Professor at the Mathematics Institute at the University of Warwick.

Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Fermat's Last Theorem.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Fermat's Last Theorem. In 1637 the French mathematician Pierre de Fermat scribbled a note in the margin of one of his books. He claimed to have proved a remarkable property of numbers, but gave no clue as to how he'd gone about it. &quot;I have found a wonderful demonstration of this proposition,&quot; he wrote, &quot;which this margin is too narrow to contain&quot;. Fermat's theorem became one of the most iconic problems in mathematics and for centuries mathematicians struggled in vain to work out what his proof had been. In the 19th century the French Academy of Sciences twice offered prize money and a gold medal to the person who could discover Fermat's proof; but it was not until 1995 that the puzzle was finally solved by the British mathematician Andrew Wiles. 

With:

Marcus du Sautoy
Professor of Mathematics &amp; Simonyi Professor for the Public Understanding of Science at the University of Oxford

Vicky Neale
Fellow and Director of Studies in Mathematics at Murray Edwards College at the University of Cambridge

Samir Siksek
Professor at the Mathematics Institute at the University of Warwick.

Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 25 Oct 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2526</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c5r.mp3" length="29470000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20121025-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c5r.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c5r.mp3" fileSize="29470000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2526" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01ngn3j</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Caxton and the Printing Press</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and influence of William Caxton, the merchant who brought the printing press to the British Isles. After spending several years working as a printer in Bruges, Caxton returned to London and in 1476 set up his first printing press in Westminster, and also imported and sold other printed books. Caxton concentrated on producing popular books that he knew would sell, such as Chaucer's 'Canterbury Tales' and small liturgical 'books of hours'. The standard of Caxton's printing may have lagged behind that on the continent, but he was a skilful businessman and unusually for printers at the time, he managed not to go bankrupt. The advent of print is now seen as one of the great revolutions in intellectual history - although many scholars believe it was a revolution that took many generations to have an effect.

With:

Richard Gameson
Professor of the History of the Book at the University of Durham

Julia Boffey
Professor of Medieval Studies in the English Department at Queen Mary, University of London

David Rundle
Member of the History Faculty at the University of Oxford

Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss William Caxton and the influence of the printing press.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and influence of William Caxton, the merchant who brought the printing press to the British Isles. After spending several years working as a printer in Bruges, Caxton returned to London and in 1476 set up his first printing press in Westminster, and also imported and sold other printed books. Caxton concentrated on producing popular books that he knew would sell, such as Chaucer's 'Canterbury Tales' and small liturgical 'books of hours'. The standard of Caxton's printing may have lagged behind that on the continent, but he was a skilful businessman and unusually for printers at the time, he managed not to go bankrupt. The advent of print is now seen as one of the great revolutions in intellectual history - although many scholars believe it was a revolution that took many generations to have an effect.

With:

Richard Gameson
Professor of the History of the Book at the University of Durham

Julia Boffey
Professor of Medieval Studies in the English Department at Queen Mary, University of London

David Rundle
Member of the History Faculty at the University of Oxford

Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 18 Oct 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2519</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c66.mp3" length="29388333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20121018-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c66.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c66.mp3" fileSize="29388333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2519" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01nbqz3</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Hannibal</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and achievements of Hannibal. One of the most celebrated military leaders in history, Hannibal was the Carthaginian general who led an entire army, complete with elephants, across the Alps in order to attack the Roman Republic. He lived at a time of prolonged hostility between the two great Mediterranean powers, Rome and Carthage, and was the Carthaginians' inspirational leader during the Second Punic War which unfolded between 218 and 202 BC. His career ended in defeat and exile, but he achieved such fame that even his enemies the Romans erected statues of him. Centuries later his tactical genius was admired and studied by generals including Napoleon and Wellington.

With:

Ellen O'Gorman
Senior Lecturer in Classics at the University of Bristol

Mark Woolmer
Senior Tutor in the Department of Classics and Ancient History at the University of Durham

Louis Rawlings
Senior Lecturer in Ancient History at Cardiff University.

Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the remarkable Carthaginian general Hannibal.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and achievements of Hannibal. One of the most celebrated military leaders in history, Hannibal was the Carthaginian general who led an entire army, complete with elephants, across the Alps in order to attack the Roman Republic. He lived at a time of prolonged hostility between the two great Mediterranean powers, Rome and Carthage, and was the Carthaginians' inspirational leader during the Second Punic War which unfolded between 218 and 202 BC. His career ended in defeat and exile, but he achieved such fame that even his enemies the Romans erected statues of him. Centuries later his tactical genius was admired and studied by generals including Napoleon and Wellington.

With:

Ellen O'Gorman
Senior Lecturer in Classics at the University of Bristol

Mark Woolmer
Senior Tutor in the Department of Classics and Ancient History at the University of Durham

Louis Rawlings
Senior Lecturer in Ancient History at Cardiff University.

Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 11 Oct 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2521</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c6p.mp3" length="29411666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20121011-1145.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c6p.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c6p.mp3" fileSize="29411666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2521" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01n6s03</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Gerald of Wales</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the medieval scholar Gerald of Wales. Born around the middle of the twelfth century, Gerald was a cleric and courtier. For much of his life he was close to Henry II and the Church hierarchy, and wrote accounts of official journeys he made around Wales and Ireland in their service. Both Anglo-Norman and Welsh by parentage, he had a unique perspective on the political strife of his age. Gerald's Journey Around Wales and Description of Ireland are among the most colourful and informative chronicles of the Middle Ages, and had a powerful influence on later historians.

With:

Henrietta Leyser
Emeritus Fellow of St Peter's College, University of Oxford

Michelle Brown
Professor Emerita of Medieval Manuscript Studies at the School of Advanced Study, University of London

Huw Pryce
Professor of Welsh History at Bangor University

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the medieval scholar Gerald of Wales.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the medieval scholar Gerald of Wales. Born around the middle of the twelfth century, Gerald was a cleric and courtier. For much of his life he was close to Henry II and the Church hierarchy, and wrote accounts of official journeys he made around Wales and Ireland in their service. Both Anglo-Norman and Welsh by parentage, he had a unique perspective on the political strife of his age. Gerald's Journey Around Wales and Description of Ireland are among the most colourful and informative chronicles of the Middle Ages, and had a powerful influence on later historians.

With:

Henrietta Leyser
Emeritus Fellow of St Peter's College, University of Oxford

Michelle Brown
Professor Emerita of Medieval Manuscript Studies at the School of Advanced Study, University of London

Huw Pryce
Professor of Welsh History at Bangor University

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 04 Oct 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2526</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c70.mp3" length="29470000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20121004-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c70.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c70.mp3" fileSize="29470000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2526" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01n1rbn</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Ontological Argument</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Ontological Argument. In the eleventh century St Anselm of Canterbury proposed that it was possible to prove the existence of God using reason alone. His argument was ridiculed by some of his contemporaries, but was analysed and improved by later thinkers including Descartes, Spinoza and Leibniz. Other philosophers have been less kind, with the Enlightenment thinker David Hume offering one possible refutation. But the debate continued, fuelled by interventions from such heavyweights as Immanuel Kant and Kurt Gödel; and it remains one of the most discussed problems in philosophy.

With:

John Haldane
Professor of Philosophy at the University of St Andrews

Peter Millican
Professor of Philosophy at the University of Oxford

Clare Carlisle
Lecturer in Philosophy of Religion at King's College London

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Ontological Argument for the existence of God.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Ontological Argument. In the eleventh century St Anselm of Canterbury proposed that it was possible to prove the existence of God using reason alone. His argument was ridiculed by some of his contemporaries, but was analysed and improved by later thinkers including Descartes, Spinoza and Leibniz. Other philosophers have been less kind, with the Enlightenment thinker David Hume offering one possible refutation. But the debate continued, fuelled by interventions from such heavyweights as Immanuel Kant and Kurt Gödel; and it remains one of the most discussed problems in philosophy.

With:

John Haldane
Professor of Philosophy at the University of St Andrews

Peter Millican
Professor of Philosophy at the University of Oxford

Clare Carlisle
Lecturer in Philosophy of Religion at King's College London

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 27 Sep 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2531</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c76.mp3" length="29528333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120927-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c76.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c76.mp3" fileSize="29528333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2531" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01mwx64</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Druids</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Druids, the priests of ancient Europe. Active in Ireland, Britain and Gaul, the Druids were first written about by Roman authors including Julius Caesar and Pliny, who described them as wearing white robes and cutting mistletoe with golden sickles. They were suspected of leading resistance to the Romans, a fact which eventually led to their eradication from ancient Britain. In the early modern era, however, interest in the Druids revived, and later writers reinvented and romanticised their activities. Little is known for certain about their rituals and beliefs, but modern archaeological discoveries have shed new light on them.

With:

Barry Cunliffe
Emeritus Professor of Archaeology at the University of Oxford

Miranda Aldhouse-Green
Professor of Archaeology at Cardiff University

Justin Champion
Professor of the History of Early Modern Ideas at Royal Holloway, University of London


Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Druids of ancient Europe.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Druids, the priests of ancient Europe. Active in Ireland, Britain and Gaul, the Druids were first written about by Roman authors including Julius Caesar and Pliny, who described them as wearing white robes and cutting mistletoe with golden sickles. They were suspected of leading resistance to the Romans, a fact which eventually led to their eradication from ancient Britain. In the early modern era, however, interest in the Druids revived, and later writers reinvented and romanticised their activities. Little is known for certain about their rituals and beliefs, but modern archaeological discoveries have shed new light on them.

With:

Barry Cunliffe
Emeritus Professor of Archaeology at the University of Oxford

Miranda Aldhouse-Green
Professor of Archaeology at Cardiff University

Justin Champion
Professor of the History of Early Modern Ideas at Royal Holloway, University of London


Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 20 Sep 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2520</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c7c.mp3" length="29400000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120920-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c7c.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c7c.mp3" fileSize="29400000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2520" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01mqq94</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Cell</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the cell, the fundamental building block of life. First observed by Robert Hooke in 1665, cells occur in nature in a bewildering variety of forms. Every organism alive today consists of one or more cells: a single human body contains up to a hundred trillion of them. 

The first life on Earth was a single-celled organism which is thought to have appeared around three and a half billion years ago. That simple cell resembled today's bacteria. But eventually these microscopic entities evolved into something far more complex, and single-celled life gave rise to much larger, complex multicellular organisms. But how did the first cell appear, and how did that prototype evolve into the sophisticated, highly specialised cells of the human body?

With:

Steve Jones
Professor of Genetics at University College London

Nick Lane
Senior Lecturer in the Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London

Cathie Martin
Group Leader at the John Innes Centre and Professor in the School of Biological Sciences at the University of East Anglia

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the biology and origins of the cell.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the cell, the fundamental building block of life. First observed by Robert Hooke in 1665, cells occur in nature in a bewildering variety of forms. Every organism alive today consists of one or more cells: a single human body contains up to a hundred trillion of them. 

The first life on Earth was a single-celled organism which is thought to have appeared around three and a half billion years ago. That simple cell resembled today's bacteria. But eventually these microscopic entities evolved into something far more complex, and single-celled life gave rise to much larger, complex multicellular organisms. But how did the first cell appear, and how did that prototype evolve into the sophisticated, highly specialised cells of the human body?

With:

Steve Jones
Professor of Genetics at University College London

Nick Lane
Senior Lecturer in the Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London

Cathie Martin
Group Leader at the John Innes Centre and Professor in the School of Biological Sciences at the University of East Anglia

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 13 Sep 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2523</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c7q.mp3" length="29434999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120913-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c7q.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c7q.mp3" fileSize="29434999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2523" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01mk8vh</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Hadrian's Wall</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Hadrian's Wall, the largest Roman structure and one of the most important archaeological monuments in Britain. Stretching for eighty miles from the mouth of the River Tyne to the Solway Firth and classified today as a World Heritage Site, it has been a source of fascination ever since it came into existence. It was built in about 122 AD by the Emperor Hadrian, and a substantial part of it still survives today. Although its construction must have entailed huge cost and labour, the Romans abandoned it within twenty years, deciding to build the Antonine Wall further north instead. Even after more than a century of excavations, many mysteries still surround Hadrian's Wall, including its exact purpose. Did it have a meaningful defensive role or was it mainly a powerful emperor's vanity project? 

With: 

Greg Woolf 
Professor of Ancient History at the University of St Andrews

David Breeze 
Former Chief Inspector of Ancient Monuments for Scotland and Visiting Professor of Archaeology at the University of Durham

Lindsay Allason-Jones 
Former Reader in Roman Material Culture at the University of Newcastle

Producer: Victoria Brignell.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Hadrian's Wall.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Hadrian's Wall, the largest Roman structure and one of the most important archaeological monuments in Britain. Stretching for eighty miles from the mouth of the River Tyne to the Solway Firth and classified today as a World Heritage Site, it has been a source of fascination ever since it came into existence. It was built in about 122 AD by the Emperor Hadrian, and a substantial part of it still survives today. Although its construction must have entailed huge cost and labour, the Romans abandoned it within twenty years, deciding to build the Antonine Wall further north instead. Even after more than a century of excavations, many mysteries still surround Hadrian's Wall, including its exact purpose. Did it have a meaningful defensive role or was it mainly a powerful emperor's vanity project? 

With: 

Greg Woolf 
Professor of Ancient History at the University of St Andrews

David Breeze 
Former Chief Inspector of Ancient Monuments for Scotland and Visiting Professor of Archaeology at the University of Durham

Lindsay Allason-Jones 
Former Reader in Roman Material Culture at the University of Newcastle

Producer: Victoria Brignell.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 12 Jul 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2520</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c7y.mp3" length="29400000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120712-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c7y.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c7y.mp3" fileSize="29400000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2520" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01kkr42</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Scepticism</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Scepticism, the idea that it may be impossible to know anything with complete certainty. Scepticism was first outlined by ancient Greek philosophers: Socrates is reported to have said that the only thing he knew for certain was that he knew nothing. Later, Scepticism was taught at the Academy founded by Plato, and learnt by students who included the Roman statesman Cicero. The central ideas of Scepticism were taken up by later philosophers and came to the fore during the Renaissance, when thinkers including Rene Descartes and Michel de Montaigne took up its challenge. A central plank of the philosophical system of David Hume, Scepticism had a powerful influence on the religious and scientific debates of the Enlightenment.

With:

Peter Millican
Professor of Philosophy at Hertford College, Oxford

Melissa Lane
Professor of Politics at Princeton University

Jill Kraye
Professor of the History of Renaissance Philosophy and Librarian at the Warburg Institute, University of London. 

Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the history of philosophical scepticism.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Scepticism, the idea that it may be impossible to know anything with complete certainty. Scepticism was first outlined by ancient Greek philosophers: Socrates is reported to have said that the only thing he knew for certain was that he knew nothing. Later, Scepticism was taught at the Academy founded by Plato, and learnt by students who included the Roman statesman Cicero. The central ideas of Scepticism were taken up by later philosophers and came to the fore during the Renaissance, when thinkers including Rene Descartes and Michel de Montaigne took up its challenge. A central plank of the philosophical system of David Hume, Scepticism had a powerful influence on the religious and scientific debates of the Enlightenment.

With:

Peter Millican
Professor of Philosophy at Hertford College, Oxford

Melissa Lane
Professor of Politics at Princeton University

Jill Kraye
Professor of the History of Renaissance Philosophy and Librarian at the Warburg Institute, University of London. 

Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 05 Jul 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2529</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c88.mp3" length="29504999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120705-1300.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c88.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c88.mp3" fileSize="29504999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2529" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01kblc3</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Al-Kindi</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and work of the Arab philosopher al-Kindi. Born in the early ninth century, al-Kindi was heavily influenced by Greek philosophy and supervised the translation of many works by Aristotle and others into Arabic. The author of more than 250 works, he wrote on many different subjects, from optics to mathematics, music and astrology. He was the first significant thinker to argue that philosophy and Islam had much to offer each other and need not be kept apart. Today al-Kindi is regarded as one of the greatest scholars of the medieval Islamic world.

With:

Hugh Kennedy
Professor of Arabic at SOAS, University of London

James Montgomery
Sir Thomas Adams's Professor of Arabic Elect at the University of Cambridge

Amira Bennison
Senior Lecturer in Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies at the University of Cambridge.


Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Arab philosopher Al-Kindi.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and work of the Arab philosopher al-Kindi. Born in the early ninth century, al-Kindi was heavily influenced by Greek philosophy and supervised the translation of many works by Aristotle and others into Arabic. The author of more than 250 works, he wrote on many different subjects, from optics to mathematics, music and astrology. He was the first significant thinker to argue that philosophy and Islam had much to offer each other and need not be kept apart. Today al-Kindi is regarded as one of the greatest scholars of the medieval Islamic world.

With:

Hugh Kennedy
Professor of Arabic at SOAS, University of London

James Montgomery
Sir Thomas Adams's Professor of Arabic Elect at the University of Cambridge

Amira Bennison
Senior Lecturer in Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies at the University of Cambridge.


Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 28 Jun 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2513</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c8j.mp3" length="29318333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120628-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c8j.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c8j.mp3" fileSize="29318333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2513" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01k2bv8</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Annie Besant</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life of the prominent 19th-century social reformer Annie Besant. Born in 1847, Annie Besant espoused a range of causes including secularism, women's rights, Socialism, Irish Home Rule, birth control and better conditions for workers. Described by Beatrice Webb as having &quot;the voice of a beautiful soul&quot;, Besant became an eloquent public speaker as well as writing numerous campaigning articles and pamphlets. She is perhaps most famous for the key role she played in the successful strike by female workers at the Bryant and May match factory in East London in 1888, which brought the appalling working conditions of many factory workers to greater public attention. 

Later in life she became a follower of theosophy, a belief system bringing together elements of Hinduism, Buddhism and other Eastern religions. She moved to India, its main base, and took on a leading role in the Indian self-rule movement, being appointed the first female president of the Indian National Congress in 1917. 

With: 

Lawrence Goldman
Fellow in Modern History at St Peter's College, University of Oxford

David Stack 
Reader in History at the University of Reading 

Yasmin Khan
Senior Lecturer in Politics and International Relations at Royal Holloway, University of London. 


Producer: Victoria Brignell.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the 19th-century writer and campaigner Annie Besant.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life of the prominent 19th-century social reformer Annie Besant. Born in 1847, Annie Besant espoused a range of causes including secularism, women's rights, Socialism, Irish Home Rule, birth control and better conditions for workers. Described by Beatrice Webb as having &quot;the voice of a beautiful soul&quot;, Besant became an eloquent public speaker as well as writing numerous campaigning articles and pamphlets. She is perhaps most famous for the key role she played in the successful strike by female workers at the Bryant and May match factory in East London in 1888, which brought the appalling working conditions of many factory workers to greater public attention. 

Later in life she became a follower of theosophy, a belief system bringing together elements of Hinduism, Buddhism and other Eastern religions. She moved to India, its main base, and took on a leading role in the Indian self-rule movement, being appointed the first female president of the Indian National Congress in 1917. 

With: 

Lawrence Goldman
Fellow in Modern History at St Peter's College, University of Oxford

David Stack 
Reader in History at the University of Reading 

Yasmin Khan
Senior Lecturer in Politics and International Relations at Royal Holloway, University of London. 


Producer: Victoria Brignell.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 21 Jun 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2518</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c8r.mp3" length="29376666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120621-1145.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c8r.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c8r.mp3" fileSize="29376666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2518" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01jxtd7</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>James Joyce's Ulysses</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss James Joyce's novel Ulysses. First published ninety years ago in Paris, Joyce's masterpiece is a sprawling and startlingly original work charting a single day in the life of the Dubliner Leopold Bloom. Some early readers were outraged by its sexual content and daringly scatalogical humour, and the novel was banned in most English-speaking countries for a decade after it first appeared. But it was soon recognised as a genuinely innovative work: overturning the ban on its publication, an American judge described Ulysses as &quot;a sincere and serious attempt to devise a new literary method for the observation and description of mankind.&quot;Today Ulysses is widely regarded as the greatest example of literary modernism, and a work that changed literature forever. It remains one of the most discussed novels ever written.Steven ConnorProfessor of Modern Literature and Theory at Birkbeck, University of LondonJeri JohnsonSenior Fellow in English at Exeter College, OxfordRichard BrownReader in Modern English Literature at the University of LeedsProducer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss James Joyce's celebrated novel Ulysses.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss James Joyce's novel Ulysses. First published ninety years ago in Paris, Joyce's masterpiece is a sprawling and startlingly original work charting a single day in the life of the Dubliner Leopold Bloom. Some early readers were outraged by its sexual content and daringly scatalogical humour, and the novel was banned in most English-speaking countries for a decade after it first appeared. But it was soon recognised as a genuinely innovative work: overturning the ban on its publication, an American judge described Ulysses as &quot;a sincere and serious attempt to devise a new literary method for the observation and description of mankind.&quot;Today Ulysses is widely regarded as the greatest example of literary modernism, and a work that changed literature forever. It remains one of the most discussed novels ever written.Steven ConnorProfessor of Modern Literature and Theory at Birkbeck, University of LondonJeri JohnsonSenior Fellow in English at Exeter College, OxfordRichard BrownReader in Modern English Literature at the University of LeedsProducer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 14 Jun 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2525</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c8x.mp3" length="29458333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120614-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c8x.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c8x.mp3" fileSize="29458333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2525" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01jrldv</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>King Solomon</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the biblical king Solomon, celebrated for his wisdom and as the architect of the First Temple in Jerusalem. According to the Old Testament account of his life, Solomon was chosen as his father David's successor as Israelite king, and instead of praying for long life or wealth asked God for wisdom. In the words of the Authorised Version, &quot;And there came of all people to hear the wisdom of Solomon, from all kings of the earth, which had heard of his wisdom.&quot; Solomon is an important figure in Judaism, Islam and Christianity alike, and is also credited with the authorship of several scriptural texts. His name is associated with the tradition of wisdom literature and with a large number of myths and legends. For many centuries Solomon was seen as the archetypal enlightened monarch, and his example influenced notions of kingship from the Middle Ages onwards.With:Martin PalmerDirector of the International Consultancy on Religion, Education, and CulturePhilip AlexanderEmeritus Professor of Jewish Studies at the University of ManchesterKatharine DellSenior Lecturer in Old Testament Studies at the University of Cambridge, and Fellow of St Catherine's College, CambridgeProducer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the biblical king Solomon.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the biblical king Solomon, celebrated for his wisdom and as the architect of the First Temple in Jerusalem. According to the Old Testament account of his life, Solomon was chosen as his father David's successor as Israelite king, and instead of praying for long life or wealth asked God for wisdom. In the words of the Authorised Version, &quot;And there came of all people to hear the wisdom of Solomon, from all kings of the earth, which had heard of his wisdom.&quot; Solomon is an important figure in Judaism, Islam and Christianity alike, and is also credited with the authorship of several scriptural texts. His name is associated with the tradition of wisdom literature and with a large number of myths and legends. For many centuries Solomon was seen as the archetypal enlightened monarch, and his example influenced notions of kingship from the Middle Ages onwards.With:Martin PalmerDirector of the International Consultancy on Religion, Education, and CulturePhilip AlexanderEmeritus Professor of Jewish Studies at the University of ManchesterKatharine DellSenior Lecturer in Old Testament Studies at the University of Cambridge, and Fellow of St Catherine's College, CambridgeProducer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 07 Jun 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2529</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c94.mp3" length="29504999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120607-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c94.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c94.mp3" fileSize="29504999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2529" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01jhjc7</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Trojan War</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Trojan War, one of the best known events of Greek mythology. According to the traditional version of the story, the war began when a Trojan prince, Paris, eloped with the Spartan queen Helen. A Greek army besieged Troy for ten years before the city was finally overrun and destroyed. Some of the most familiar names of Greek mythology are associated with the war, including Achilles and Hector, Odysseus and Helen of Troy - and it has also given us the story of the Trojan Horse.The war is the backdrop for Homer's epic poem The Iliad, and features in many other works from classical antiquity. For centuries it was assumed to be a mythical event. But in the nineteenth century a series of archaeological discoveries provided startling evidence that Troy might really have existed, leading some scholars to conclude that there could even be some truth behind the myth. So does the Trojan War story have any basis in fact? And why has it proved such an enduring legend?With:Edith HallProfessor of Classics at King's College LondonEllen AdamsLecturer in Classical Art and Archaeology at King's College LondonSusan SherrattLecturer in Archaeology at the University of SheffieldProducer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the Trojan War, a central event of Ancient Greek mythology</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Trojan War, one of the best known events of Greek mythology. According to the traditional version of the story, the war began when a Trojan prince, Paris, eloped with the Spartan queen Helen. A Greek army besieged Troy for ten years before the city was finally overrun and destroyed. Some of the most familiar names of Greek mythology are associated with the war, including Achilles and Hector, Odysseus and Helen of Troy - and it has also given us the story of the Trojan Horse.The war is the backdrop for Homer's epic poem The Iliad, and features in many other works from classical antiquity. For centuries it was assumed to be a mythical event. But in the nineteenth century a series of archaeological discoveries provided startling evidence that Troy might really have existed, leading some scholars to conclude that there could even be some truth behind the myth. So does the Trojan War story have any basis in fact? And why has it proved such an enduring legend?With:Edith HallProfessor of Classics at King's College LondonEllen AdamsLecturer in Classical Art and Archaeology at King's College LondonSusan SherrattLecturer in Archaeology at the University of SheffieldProducer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 31 May 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2515</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c99.mp3" length="29341666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120531-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c99.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c99.mp3" fileSize="29341666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2515" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01j6srl</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Marco Polo</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the celebrated Venetian explorer Marco Polo. In 1271 Polo set off on an epic journey through Asia. He was away for more than twenty years, and when he returned to Venice he told extraordinary tales of his adventures. He had visited the court of the Mongol Emperor Kublai Khan, and acted as his emissary, travelling through many of the remote territories of the Far East. An account of Marco Polo's travels was written down by his contemporary Rustichello da Pisa, a romance writer he met after being imprisoned during a war against the neighbouring Genoese.The Travels of Marco Polo was one of the most popular books produced in the age before printing. It was widely translated, and many beautifully illustrated editions made their way to the collections of the rich and educated. It was much read by later travellers, and Polo's devotees included Christopher Columbus and Henry the Navigator. For centuries it was seen as the first and best account of life in the mysterious East; but today the accuracy and even truth of Marco Polo's work is often disputed.With:Frances WoodLead Curator of Chinese Collections at the British LibraryJoan Pau RubiesReader in International History at the London School of Economics and Political ScienceDebra Higgs StricklandSenior Lecturer in the History of Art at the University of GlasgowProducer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the celebrated Venetian explorer Marco Polo.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the celebrated Venetian explorer Marco Polo. In 1271 Polo set off on an epic journey through Asia. He was away for more than twenty years, and when he returned to Venice he told extraordinary tales of his adventures. He had visited the court of the Mongol Emperor Kublai Khan, and acted as his emissary, travelling through many of the remote territories of the Far East. An account of Marco Polo's travels was written down by his contemporary Rustichello da Pisa, a romance writer he met after being imprisoned during a war against the neighbouring Genoese.The Travels of Marco Polo was one of the most popular books produced in the age before printing. It was widely translated, and many beautifully illustrated editions made their way to the collections of the rich and educated. It was much read by later travellers, and Polo's devotees included Christopher Columbus and Henry the Navigator. For centuries it was seen as the first and best account of life in the mysterious East; but today the accuracy and even truth of Marco Polo's work is often disputed.With:Frances WoodLead Curator of Chinese Collections at the British LibraryJoan Pau RubiesReader in International History at the London School of Economics and Political ScienceDebra Higgs StricklandSenior Lecturer in the History of Art at the University of GlasgowProducer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2522</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c9j.mp3" length="29423333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120524-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c9j.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c9j.mp3" fileSize="29423333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2522" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01hxpxh</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Clausewitz and On War</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss On War, a treatise on the theory and practice of warfare written by the Prussian soldier and intellectual Carl von Clausewitz. First published in 1832, Clausewitz's magnum opus is commonly regarded as the most important book about military theory ever written. Informed by its author's experience of fighting against the mighty armies of Napoleon, the work looks not just at the practicalities of warfare, but offers a subtle philosophical analysis of the nature of war and its relationship with politics. Notions such as the Clausewitzian Trinity have had an enormous effect on later military leaders. But its influence is felt today not just on the battlefield but also in politics and business.With:Saul DavidProfessor of War Studies at the University of BuckinghamHew StrachanChichele Professor of the History of War at the University of OxfordBeatrice HeuserProfessor of International Relations at the University of Reading.Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Clausewitz's influential treatise On War.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss On War, a treatise on the theory and practice of warfare written by the Prussian soldier and intellectual Carl von Clausewitz. First published in 1832, Clausewitz's magnum opus is commonly regarded as the most important book about military theory ever written. Informed by its author's experience of fighting against the mighty armies of Napoleon, the work looks not just at the practicalities of warfare, but offers a subtle philosophical analysis of the nature of war and its relationship with politics. Notions such as the Clausewitzian Trinity have had an enormous effect on later military leaders. But its influence is felt today not just on the battlefield but also in politics and business.With:Saul DavidProfessor of War Studies at the University of BuckinghamHew StrachanChichele Professor of the History of War at the University of OxfordBeatrice HeuserProfessor of International Relations at the University of Reading.Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 17 May 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2526</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c9q.mp3" length="29470000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120517-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c9q.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c9q.mp3" fileSize="29470000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2526" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01hl293</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Game Theory</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss game theory, the mathematical study of decision-making. First formulated in the 1940s, the discipline entails devising 'games' to simulate situations of conflict or cooperation. It allows researchers to unravel decision-making strategies, and even to establish why certain types of behaviour emerge. Some of the games studied in game theory have become well known outside academia - they include the Prisoner's Dilemma, an intriguing scenario popularised in novels and films, and which has inspired television game shows. Today game theory is seen as a vital tool in such diverse fields as evolutionary biology, economics, computing and philosophy. With:Ian StewartEmeritus Professor of Mathematics at the University of WarwickAndrew ColmanProfessor of Psychology at the University of LeicesterRichard BradleyProfessor of Philosophy at the London School of Economics and Political Science.Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss game theory, the mathematical study of decision-making</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss game theory, the mathematical study of decision-making. First formulated in the 1940s, the discipline entails devising 'games' to simulate situations of conflict or cooperation. It allows researchers to unravel decision-making strategies, and even to establish why certain types of behaviour emerge. Some of the games studied in game theory have become well known outside academia - they include the Prisoner's Dilemma, an intriguing scenario popularised in novels and films, and which has inspired television game shows. Today game theory is seen as a vital tool in such diverse fields as evolutionary biology, economics, computing and philosophy. With:Ian StewartEmeritus Professor of Mathematics at the University of WarwickAndrew ColmanProfessor of Psychology at the University of LeicesterRichard BradleyProfessor of Philosophy at the London School of Economics and Political Science.Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 10 May 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2511</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c9y.mp3" length="29295000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120510-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c9y.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5c9y.mp3" fileSize="29295000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2511" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01h75xp</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Voltaire's Candide</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Voltaire's novel Candide. First published in 1759, the novel follows the adventures of a young man, Candide, and his mentor, the philosopher Pangloss. Candide was written in the aftermath of a major earthquake in Lisbon and the outbreak of the Seven Years' War, events which caused such human suffering that they shook many people's faith in a benevolent God. Voltaire's masterpiece piles ridicule on Optimism, the fashionable philosophical belief that such disasters are part of God's plan for humanity - that 'all is for the best in this best of all possible worlds'.Often uproariously funny, the novel is a biting satire whose other targets include bad literature, extremist religion and the vanity of kings and politicians. It captivated contemporary readers and has proved one of French literature's most enduring classics.With:David WoottonAnniversary Professor of History at the University of YorkNicholas CronkProfessor of French Literature and Director of the Voltaire Foundation at the University of OxfordCaroline WarmanLecturer in French and Fellow of Jesus College at the University of Oxford.Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Voltaire's satirical novel Candide, published in 1759.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Voltaire's novel Candide. First published in 1759, the novel follows the adventures of a young man, Candide, and his mentor, the philosopher Pangloss. Candide was written in the aftermath of a major earthquake in Lisbon and the outbreak of the Seven Years' War, events which caused such human suffering that they shook many people's faith in a benevolent God. Voltaire's masterpiece piles ridicule on Optimism, the fashionable philosophical belief that such disasters are part of God's plan for humanity - that 'all is for the best in this best of all possible worlds'.Often uproariously funny, the novel is a biting satire whose other targets include bad literature, extremist religion and the vanity of kings and politicians. It captivated contemporary readers and has proved one of French literature's most enduring classics.With:David WoottonAnniversary Professor of History at the University of YorkNicholas CronkProfessor of French Literature and Director of the Voltaire Foundation at the University of OxfordCaroline WarmanLecturer in French and Fellow of Jesus College at the University of Oxford.Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 03 May 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2527</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cb4.mp3" length="29481666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120503-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cb4.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cb4.mp3" fileSize="29481666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2527" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01gvthf</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Battle of Bosworth Field</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Battle of Bosworth Field, the celebrated encounter between Lancastrian and Yorkist forces in August 1485. The battle, the penultimate of the Wars of the Roses, resulted in the death of Richard III. The victory of Henry Tudor enabled him to succeed Richard as monarch and establish the Tudor dynasty which was to rule for over a century. These events were immortalised by Shakespeare in Richard III, and today the battle is regarded as one of the most important to have taken place on English soil. But little is known about what happened on the battlefield, and the very location of the encounter remains the subject of much debate.With:Anne CurryProfessor of Medieval History and Dean of Humanities at the University of SouthamptonSteven GunnTutor and Fellow in Modern History at Merton College, OxfordDavid GrummittLecturer in British History at the University of Kent.Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Battle of Bosworth Field in 1485.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Battle of Bosworth Field, the celebrated encounter between Lancastrian and Yorkist forces in August 1485. The battle, the penultimate of the Wars of the Roses, resulted in the death of Richard III. The victory of Henry Tudor enabled him to succeed Richard as monarch and establish the Tudor dynasty which was to rule for over a century. These events were immortalised by Shakespeare in Richard III, and today the battle is regarded as one of the most important to have taken place on English soil. But little is known about what happened on the battlefield, and the very location of the encounter remains the subject of much debate.With:Anne CurryProfessor of Medieval History and Dean of Humanities at the University of SouthamptonSteven GunnTutor and Fellow in Modern History at Merton College, OxfordDavid GrummittLecturer in British History at the University of Kent.Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2526</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cbc.mp3" length="29470000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120426-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cbc.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cbc.mp3" fileSize="29470000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2526" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01ghc43</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Neoplatonism</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Neoplatonism, the school of thought founded in the 3rd century AD by the philosopher Plotinus. Born in Egypt, Plotinus was brought up in the Platonic tradition, studying and reinterpreting the works of the Greek thinker Plato. After he moved to Rome Plotinus became the most influential member of a group of thinkers dedicated to Platonic scholarship. The Neoplatonists - a term only coined in the nineteenth century - brought a new religious sensibility to bear on Plato's thought. They outlined a complex cosmology which linked the human with the divine, headed by a mysterious power which they called the One. Neoplatonism shaped early Christian, Jewish and Muslim religious scholarship, and remained a dominant force in European thought until the Renaissance. With:Angie HobbsAssociate Professor of Philosophy and Senior Fellow in the Public Understanding of Philosophy at the University of WarwickPeter AdamsonProfessor of Ancient and Medieval Philosophy at King's College LondonAnne SheppardProfessor of Ancient Philosophy at Royal Holloway, University of LondonProducer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the ancient philosophical school of Neoplatonism.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Neoplatonism, the school of thought founded in the 3rd century AD by the philosopher Plotinus. Born in Egypt, Plotinus was brought up in the Platonic tradition, studying and reinterpreting the works of the Greek thinker Plato. After he moved to Rome Plotinus became the most influential member of a group of thinkers dedicated to Platonic scholarship. The Neoplatonists - a term only coined in the nineteenth century - brought a new religious sensibility to bear on Plato's thought. They outlined a complex cosmology which linked the human with the divine, headed by a mysterious power which they called the One. Neoplatonism shaped early Christian, Jewish and Muslim religious scholarship, and remained a dominant force in European thought until the Renaissance. With:Angie HobbsAssociate Professor of Philosophy and Senior Fellow in the Public Understanding of Philosophy at the University of WarwickPeter AdamsonProfessor of Ancient and Medieval Philosophy at King's College LondonAnne SheppardProfessor of Ancient Philosophy at Royal Holloway, University of LondonProducer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 19 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2517</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cc8.mp3" length="29365000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120419-1145.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cc8.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cc8.mp3" fileSize="29365000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2517" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01g62w1</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Early Geology</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the emergence of geology as a scientific discipline. A little over two hundred years ago a small group of friends founded the Geological Society of London. This organisation was the first devoted to furthering the discipline of geology - the study of the Earth, its history and composition. Although geology only emerged as a separate area of study in the late eighteenth century, many earlier thinkers had studied rocks, fossils and the materials from which the Earth is made. Ancient scholars in Egypt and Greece speculated about the Earth and its composition. And in the Renaissance the advent of mining brought further insight into the nature of objects found underground and how they got there. But how did such haphazard study of rocks and fossils develop into a rigorous scientific discipline?With:Stephen PumfreySenior Lecturer in the History of Science at Lancaster UniversityAndrew ScottProfessor of Applied Palaeobotany at Royal Holloway, University of LondonLeucha VeneerResearch Associate at the Centre for the History of Science, Technology and Medicine at the University of Manchester.Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the emergence of geology as a scientific discipline.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the emergence of geology as a scientific discipline. A little over two hundred years ago a small group of friends founded the Geological Society of London. This organisation was the first devoted to furthering the discipline of geology - the study of the Earth, its history and composition. Although geology only emerged as a separate area of study in the late eighteenth century, many earlier thinkers had studied rocks, fossils and the materials from which the Earth is made. Ancient scholars in Egypt and Greece speculated about the Earth and its composition. And in the Renaissance the advent of mining brought further insight into the nature of objects found underground and how they got there. But how did such haphazard study of rocks and fossils develop into a rigorous scientific discipline?With:Stephen PumfreySenior Lecturer in the History of Science at Lancaster UniversityAndrew ScottProfessor of Applied Palaeobotany at Royal Holloway, University of LondonLeucha VeneerResearch Associate at the Centre for the History of Science, Technology and Medicine at the University of Manchester.Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 12 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2535</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5ccv.mp3" length="29575000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120412-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5ccv.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5ccv.mp3" fileSize="29575000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2535" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01dgh7d</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>George Fox and the Quakers</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the origins of Quakerism. In the mid-seventeenth century an itinerant preacher, George Fox, became the central figure of a group known as the Religious Society of Friends, whose members believed it was possible to obtain contact with Christ without priestly intercession. The Quakers, as they became known, rejected the established Church and what they saw as the artificial pomp and artifice of its worship. They argued for religious toleration and for the equality of men and women. Persecuted for many years, particularly after the Restoration of Charles II in 1660, the Quakers survived to become an influential religious group, known for their pacifism and philanthropy. With:Justin ChampionProfessor of the History of Early Modern Ideas at Royal Holloway, University of LondonJohn CoffeyProfessor of Early Modern History at the University of LeicesterKate PetersFellow in History at Murray Edwards College at the University of Cambridge.Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the origins of Quakerism.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the origins of Quakerism. In the mid-seventeenth century an itinerant preacher, George Fox, became the central figure of a group known as the Religious Society of Friends, whose members believed it was possible to obtain contact with Christ without priestly intercession. The Quakers, as they became known, rejected the established Church and what they saw as the artificial pomp and artifice of its worship. They argued for religious toleration and for the equality of men and women. Persecuted for many years, particularly after the Restoration of Charles II in 1660, the Quakers survived to become an influential religious group, known for their pacifism and philanthropy. With:Justin ChampionProfessor of the History of Early Modern Ideas at Royal Holloway, University of LondonJohn CoffeyProfessor of Early Modern History at the University of LeicesterKate PetersFellow in History at Murray Edwards College at the University of Cambridge.Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 05 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2513</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cd9.mp3" length="29318333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120405-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cd9.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cd9.mp3" fileSize="29318333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2513" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01f67y4</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Measurement of Time</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the measurement of time. Early civilisations used the movements of heavenly bodies to tell the time, but even in the ancient world more sophisticated timekeeping devices such as waterclocks were known. The development of mechanical clocks in Europe emerged in the medieval period when monks used such devices to sound an alarm to signal it was the hour to pray, although these clocks did not tell them the time. For hundreds of years clocks were inaccurate and it proved hard to remedy the problems, let alone settle on a standard time that the country should follow. It was with the advent of the railways that time finally became standardised in Britain in the mid-19th century and only in 1884 that Greenwich became the prime meridian of the world. Atomic clocks now mark the passing of the days, hours, and minutes and they are capable of keeping time to a second in 15 million years. With:Kristen LippincottFormer Director of the Royal Observatory, GreenwichJim BennettDirector of the Museum of the History of Science at the University of OxfordJonathan BettsSenior Curator of Horology at the Royal Observatory, GreenwichProducer: Natalia Fernandez.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the measurement of time.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the measurement of time. Early civilisations used the movements of heavenly bodies to tell the time, but even in the ancient world more sophisticated timekeeping devices such as waterclocks were known. The development of mechanical clocks in Europe emerged in the medieval period when monks used such devices to sound an alarm to signal it was the hour to pray, although these clocks did not tell them the time. For hundreds of years clocks were inaccurate and it proved hard to remedy the problems, let alone settle on a standard time that the country should follow. It was with the advent of the railways that time finally became standardised in Britain in the mid-19th century and only in 1884 that Greenwich became the prime meridian of the world. Atomic clocks now mark the passing of the days, hours, and minutes and they are capable of keeping time to a second in 15 million years. With:Kristen LippincottFormer Director of the Royal Observatory, GreenwichJim BennettDirector of the Museum of the History of Science at the University of OxfordJonathan BettsSenior Curator of Horology at the Royal Observatory, GreenwichProducer: Natalia Fernandez.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 29 Mar 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2514</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cf2.mp3" length="29330000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120329-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cf2.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cf2.mp3" fileSize="29330000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2514" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01dvw6t</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Moses Mendelssohn</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the work and influence of the eighteenth-century philosopher Moses Mendelssohn. A prominent figure at the court of Frederick the Great, Mendelssohn was one of the most significant thinkers of his age. He came from a humble, but culturally rich background and his obvious intelligence was recognised from a young age and nurtured by the local rabbi where he lived in the town of Dessau in Prussia. Moses's learning earned him the sobriquet of the 'German Socrates' and he is considered to be one of the principal architects of the Haskala, the Jewish Enlightenment, and widely regarded as having helped bring Judaism into the mainstream of European culture. Mendelssohn is perhaps best remembered today for his efforts to bring Jewish and German culture closer together and for his plea for religious toleration.With:Christopher ClarkProfessor of Modern European History at the University of CambridgeAbigail GreenTutor and Fellow in History at the University of OxfordAdam SutcliffeSenior Lecturer in European History at King's College, London Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the German-Jewish philosopher Moses Mendelssohn.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the work and influence of the eighteenth-century philosopher Moses Mendelssohn. A prominent figure at the court of Frederick the Great, Mendelssohn was one of the most significant thinkers of his age. He came from a humble, but culturally rich background and his obvious intelligence was recognised from a young age and nurtured by the local rabbi where he lived in the town of Dessau in Prussia. Moses's learning earned him the sobriquet of the 'German Socrates' and he is considered to be one of the principal architects of the Haskala, the Jewish Enlightenment, and widely regarded as having helped bring Judaism into the mainstream of European culture. Mendelssohn is perhaps best remembered today for his efforts to bring Jewish and German culture closer together and for his plea for religious toleration.With:Christopher ClarkProfessor of Modern European History at the University of CambridgeAbigail GreenTutor and Fellow in History at the University of OxfordAdam SutcliffeSenior Lecturer in European History at King's College, London Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 22 Mar 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2538</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cfx.mp3" length="29609999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120322-1100.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cfx.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cfx.mp3" fileSize="29609999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2538" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01djnxx</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Vitruvius and De Architectura</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Vitruvius' De Architectura. Written almost exactly two thousand years ago, Vitruvius' work is a ten-volume treatise on engineering and architecture, the only surviving work on the subject from the ancient world. This fascinating book offers unique insights into Roman technology and contains discussion of the general principles of architecture, the training of architects and the design of temples, houses and public buildings.The rediscovery of this seminal treatise in the 15th century provided the impetus for the neoclassical architectural movement, and Vitruvius exerted a significant influence on the work of Renaissance architects including Palladio, Brunelleschi and Alberti. It remains a hugely important text today, two millennia after it was written.With:Serafina CuomoReader in Roman History at Birkbeck, University of LondonRobert TavernorEmeritus Professor of Architecture and Urban Design at the London School of EconomicsAlice KoenigLecturer in Latin and Classical Studies at the University of St Andrews.Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Vitruvius's De Architectura.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Vitruvius' De Architectura. Written almost exactly two thousand years ago, Vitruvius' work is a ten-volume treatise on engineering and architecture, the only surviving work on the subject from the ancient world. This fascinating book offers unique insights into Roman technology and contains discussion of the general principles of architecture, the training of architects and the design of temples, houses and public buildings.The rediscovery of this seminal treatise in the 15th century provided the impetus for the neoclassical architectural movement, and Vitruvius exerted a significant influence on the work of Renaissance architects including Palladio, Brunelleschi and Alberti. It remains a hugely important text today, two millennia after it was written.With:Serafina CuomoReader in Roman History at Birkbeck, University of LondonRobert TavernorEmeritus Professor of Architecture and Urban Design at the London School of EconomicsAlice KoenigLecturer in Latin and Classical Studies at the University of St Andrews.Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 15 Mar 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2539</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5ch6.mp3" length="29621666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120315-1230.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5ch6.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5ch6.mp3" fileSize="29621666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2539" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01d2kzx</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Lyrical Ballads</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Lyrical Ballads, the collection of poems by William Wordsworth and Samuel Coleridge first published in 1798. The work was conceived as an attempt to cast off the stultifying conventions of formal 18th-century poetry. Wordsworth wrote that the poems it contains should be &quot;considered as experiments. They were written chiefly with a view to ascertain how far the language of conversation in the middle and lower classes of society is adapted to the purpose of poetic pleasure.&quot;Lyrical Ballads contains some of the best-known work by Coleridge and Wordsworth, including The Rime of the Ancient Mariner and Tintern Abbey - and is today seen as a point of radical departure for poetry in English.With:Judith HawleyProfessor of Eighteenth-Century Literature at Royal Holloway, University of LondonJonathan BateProvost of Worcester College, OxfordPeter SwaabReader in English Literature at University College London.Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Wordsworth and Coleridge's Lyrical Ballads.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Lyrical Ballads, the collection of poems by William Wordsworth and Samuel Coleridge first published in 1798. The work was conceived as an attempt to cast off the stultifying conventions of formal 18th-century poetry. Wordsworth wrote that the poems it contains should be &quot;considered as experiments. They were written chiefly with a view to ascertain how far the language of conversation in the middle and lower classes of society is adapted to the purpose of poetic pleasure.&quot;Lyrical Ballads contains some of the best-known work by Coleridge and Wordsworth, including The Rime of the Ancient Mariner and Tintern Abbey - and is today seen as a point of radical departure for poetry in English.With:Judith HawleyProfessor of Eighteenth-Century Literature at Royal Holloway, University of LondonJonathan BateProvost of Worcester College, OxfordPeter SwaabReader in English Literature at University College London.Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 08 Mar 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2537</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5chy.mp3" length="29598333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120308-1115.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5chy.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5chy.mp3" fileSize="29598333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2537" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01cwszf</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Benjamin Franklin</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and work of Benjamin Franklin. A printer, statesman, diplomat, writer and scientist, Franklin was one of the most remarkable individuals of the eighteenth century. His discoveries relating to the nature of electricity, and in particular a celebrated experiment which involved flying a kite in a thunderstorm, made him famous in Europe and America. His inventions include bifocal spectacles, and a new type of stove. In the second half of his life he became prominent as a politician and a successful diplomat. As the only Founding Father to have signed all three of the fundamental documents of the United States of America, including its Declaration of Independence and Constitution, Benjamin Franklin occupies a unique position in the history of the nation. With:Simon MiddletonSenior Lecturer in American History at the University of SheffieldSimon NewmanSir Denis Brogan Professor of American History at the University of GlasgowPatricia FaraSenior Tutor at Clare College, University of Cambridge.Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and work of Benjamin Franklin.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and work of Benjamin Franklin. A printer, statesman, diplomat, writer and scientist, Franklin was one of the most remarkable individuals of the eighteenth century. His discoveries relating to the nature of electricity, and in particular a celebrated experiment which involved flying a kite in a thunderstorm, made him famous in Europe and America. His inventions include bifocal spectacles, and a new type of stove. In the second half of his life he became prominent as a politician and a successful diplomat. As the only Founding Father to have signed all three of the fundamental documents of the United States of America, including its Declaration of Independence and Constitution, Benjamin Franklin occupies a unique position in the history of the nation. With:Simon MiddletonSenior Lecturer in American History at the University of SheffieldSimon NewmanSir Denis Brogan Professor of American History at the University of GlasgowPatricia FaraSenior Tutor at Clare College, University of Cambridge.Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 01 Mar 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2520</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cjb.mp3" length="29400000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120301-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cjb.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cjb.mp3" fileSize="29400000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2520" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01ckmg8</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Conductors and Semiconductors</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the physics of electrical conduction. Although electricity has been known for several hundred years, it was only in the early twentieth century that physicists first satisfactorily explained the phenomenon. Electric current is the passage of charged particles through a medium - but a material will only conduct electricity if its atomic structure enables it to do so. In investigating electrical conduction scientists discovered two new classes of material. Semiconductors, first exploited commercially in the 1950s, have given us the transistor, the solar cell and the silicon chip, and have revolutionised telecommunications. And superconductors, remarkable materials first observed in 1911, are used in medical imaging and at the Large Hadron Collider in Geneva. With:Frank CloseProfessor of Physics at the University of OxfordJenny NelsonProfessor of Physics at Imperial College LondonLesley CohenProfessor of Solid State Physics at Imperial College LondonProducer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the physics of electrical conduction.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the physics of electrical conduction. Although electricity has been known for several hundred years, it was only in the early twentieth century that physicists first satisfactorily explained the phenomenon. Electric current is the passage of charged particles through a medium - but a material will only conduct electricity if its atomic structure enables it to do so. In investigating electrical conduction scientists discovered two new classes of material. Semiconductors, first exploited commercially in the 1950s, have given us the transistor, the solar cell and the silicon chip, and have revolutionised telecommunications. And superconductors, remarkable materials first observed in 1911, are used in medical imaging and at the Large Hadron Collider in Geneva. With:Frank CloseProfessor of Physics at the University of OxfordJenny NelsonProfessor of Physics at Imperial College LondonLesley CohenProfessor of Solid State Physics at Imperial College LondonProducer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 23 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2519</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5ck6.mp3" length="29388333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120223-1145.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5ck6.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5ck6.mp3" fileSize="29388333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2519" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01c7sml</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The An Lushan Rebellion</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the An Lushan Rebellion, a major uprising against the imperial rule of the Chinese Tang Dynasty. In 755 AD a senior general, An Lushan, orchestrated a plot against Emperor Xuanzong, taking the regime's capital city before declaring a rival dynasty in northern China. The rebellion lasted eight years but was eventually put down by Tang forces. Although the dynasty's authority was restored, it never regained the prosperity of previous generations. The An Lushan Rebellion displaced millions of people and killed many more. It changed the relationship between the Chinese state and neighbouring powers; but it also left a rich cultural legacy in the poetry memorialising this seismic event.With:Frances WoodLead Curator of Chinese at the British LibraryNaomi StandenProfessor of Medieval History at the University of BirminghamHilde de WeerdtFellow and Lecturer in Chinese History at Pembroke College, Oxford.Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the An Lushan Rebellion.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the An Lushan Rebellion, a major uprising against the imperial rule of the Chinese Tang Dynasty. In 755 AD a senior general, An Lushan, orchestrated a plot against Emperor Xuanzong, taking the regime's capital city before declaring a rival dynasty in northern China. The rebellion lasted eight years but was eventually put down by Tang forces. Although the dynasty's authority was restored, it never regained the prosperity of previous generations. The An Lushan Rebellion displaced millions of people and killed many more. It changed the relationship between the Chinese state and neighbouring powers; but it also left a rich cultural legacy in the poetry memorialising this seismic event.With:Frances WoodLead Curator of Chinese at the British LibraryNaomi StandenProfessor of Medieval History at the University of BirminghamHilde de WeerdtFellow and Lecturer in Chinese History at Pembroke College, Oxford.Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2523</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5clb.mp3" length="29434999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120216-1145.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5clb.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5clb.mp3" fileSize="29434999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2523" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01by8ms</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Erasmus</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and work of the Dutch humanist scholar Desiderius Erasmus. In his lifetime Erasmus was almost universally recognised as the greatest classical scholar of his age, the translator and editor of numerous Latin and Greek texts. But above all he was a religious scholar who published important editions of the Bible which expunged many corruptions to the texts of the Scriptures. He was an outspoken critic of the Church, whose biting satire on its excesses, In Praise of Folly, was famed throughout Europe.When the Reformation began in 1517, however, Erasmus chose to remain a member of the Catholic Church rather than side with Martin Luther and the reformers, and a few years later he engaged in a celebrated debate with Luther on the subject of free will. Through his writings on the Church, on education and the wide gamut of humanist scholarship, Erasmus is remembered today as one of the greatest thinkers of the northern Renaissance.With:Diarmaid MacCullochProfessor of the History of the Church at the University of OxfordEamon DuffyProfessor of the History of Christianity at the University of CambridgeJill KrayeProfessor of the History of Renaissance Philosophy and Librarian at the Warburg Institute, University of London.Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Renaissance scholar Desiderius Erasmus.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and work of the Dutch humanist scholar Desiderius Erasmus. In his lifetime Erasmus was almost universally recognised as the greatest classical scholar of his age, the translator and editor of numerous Latin and Greek texts. But above all he was a religious scholar who published important editions of the Bible which expunged many corruptions to the texts of the Scriptures. He was an outspoken critic of the Church, whose biting satire on its excesses, In Praise of Folly, was famed throughout Europe.When the Reformation began in 1517, however, Erasmus chose to remain a member of the Catholic Church rather than side with Martin Luther and the reformers, and a few years later he engaged in a celebrated debate with Luther on the subject of free will. Through his writings on the Church, on education and the wide gamut of humanist scholarship, Erasmus is remembered today as one of the greatest thinkers of the northern Renaissance.With:Diarmaid MacCullochProfessor of the History of the Church at the University of OxfordEamon DuffyProfessor of the History of Christianity at the University of CambridgeJill KrayeProfessor of the History of Renaissance Philosophy and Librarian at the Warburg Institute, University of London.Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2518</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cm0.mp3" length="29376666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120209-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cm0.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cm0.mp3" fileSize="29376666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2518" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01bmlsy</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Kama Sutra</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Kama Sutra, one of the most celebrated and often misunderstood texts of Indian literature. Probably composed during the reign of the Gupta dynasty around 1800 years ago, the work is a collection of writings about the art of love and sensual pleasure. Although it is best known today for a single chapter devoted to sexual pleasure, this important Sanksrit collection contains much besides. In particular it teaches the attainment of Kama (pleasure), one of the central goals of Hinduism. The Kama Sutra is a manual to a life of fulfilment, offering advice on such subjects as finding a spouse and how to behave in marriage; it has had a profound influence on Indian culture and thought. With:Julius LipnerProfessor of Hinduism and the Comparative Study of Religion at the University of CambridgeJessica FrazierLecturer in Religious Studies at the University of Kent and Research Fellow at the Oxford Centre for Hindu StudiesDavid SmithReader in South Asian Religions at the University of Lancaster.Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Kama Sutra.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Kama Sutra, one of the most celebrated and often misunderstood texts of Indian literature. Probably composed during the reign of the Gupta dynasty around 1800 years ago, the work is a collection of writings about the art of love and sensual pleasure. Although it is best known today for a single chapter devoted to sexual pleasure, this important Sanksrit collection contains much besides. In particular it teaches the attainment of Kama (pleasure), one of the central goals of Hinduism. The Kama Sutra is a manual to a life of fulfilment, offering advice on such subjects as finding a spouse and how to behave in marriage; it has had a profound influence on Indian culture and thought. With:Julius LipnerProfessor of Hinduism and the Comparative Study of Religion at the University of CambridgeJessica FrazierLecturer in Religious Studies at the University of Kent and Research Fellow at the Oxford Centre for Hindu StudiesDavid SmithReader in South Asian Religions at the University of Lancaster.Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2527</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cmn.mp3" length="29481666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120202-1245.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cmn.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cmn.mp3" fileSize="29481666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2527" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01bb9c9</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Scientific Method</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the evolution of the Scientific Method, the systematic and analytical approach to scientific thought. In 1620 the great philosopher and scientist Francis Bacon published the Novum Organum, a work outlining a new system of thought which he believed should inform all enquiry into the laws of nature. Philosophers before him had given their attention to the reasoning that underlies scientific enquiry; but Bacon's emphasis on observation and experience is often seen today as giving rise to a new phenomenon: the scientific method.The scientific method, and the logical processes on which it is based, became a topic of intense debate in the seventeenth century, and thinkers including Isaac Newton, Thomas Huxley and Karl Popper all made important contributions. Some of the greatest discoveries of the modern age were informed by their work, although even today the term 'scientific method' remains difficult to define.With: Simon SchafferProfessor of the History of Science at the University of CambridgeJohn WorrallProfessor of the Philosophy of Science at the London School of Economics and Political ScienceMichela MassimiSenior Lecturer in the Philosophy of Science at University College London.Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Scientific Method.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the evolution of the Scientific Method, the systematic and analytical approach to scientific thought. In 1620 the great philosopher and scientist Francis Bacon published the Novum Organum, a work outlining a new system of thought which he believed should inform all enquiry into the laws of nature. Philosophers before him had given their attention to the reasoning that underlies scientific enquiry; but Bacon's emphasis on observation and experience is often seen today as giving rise to a new phenomenon: the scientific method.The scientific method, and the logical processes on which it is based, became a topic of intense debate in the seventeenth century, and thinkers including Isaac Newton, Thomas Huxley and Karl Popper all made important contributions. Some of the greatest discoveries of the modern age were informed by their work, although even today the term 'scientific method' remains difficult to define.With: Simon SchafferProfessor of the History of Science at the University of CambridgeJohn WorrallProfessor of the Philosophy of Science at the London School of Economics and Political ScienceMichela MassimiSenior Lecturer in the Philosophy of Science at University College London.Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2521</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cns.mp3" length="29411666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120126-1215.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cns.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cns.mp3" fileSize="29411666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2521" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b01b1ljm</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>1848: Year of Revolution</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss 1848, the year that saw Europe engulfed in revolution. Across the continent, from Paris to Palermo, liberals rose against conservative governments. The first stirrings of rebellion came in January, in Sicily; in February the French monarchy fell; and within a few months Germany, Austria, Hungary and Italy had all been overtaken by revolutionary fervour. Only a few countries, notably Britain and Russia, were spared.The rebels were fighting for nationalism, social justice and civil rights, and were prepared to fight in the streets down to the last man. Tens of thousands of people lost their lives; but little of lasting value was achieved, and by the end of the year the liberal revolutions had been soundly beaten.With: Tim BlanningEmeritus Professor of History at the University of CambridgeLucy RiallProfessor of History at Birkbeck, University of LondonMike RapportSenior Lecturer in History at the University of Stirling.Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss 1848, the year that saw Europe engulfed in revolution.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss 1848, the year that saw Europe engulfed in revolution. Across the continent, from Paris to Palermo, liberals rose against conservative governments. The first stirrings of rebellion came in January, in Sicily; in February the French monarchy fell; and within a few months Germany, Austria, Hungary and Italy had all been overtaken by revolutionary fervour. Only a few countries, notably Britain and Russia, were spared.The rebels were fighting for nationalism, social justice and civil rights, and were prepared to fight in the streets down to the last man. Tens of thousands of people lost their lives; but little of lasting value was achieved, and by the end of the year the liberal revolutions had been soundly beaten.With: Tim BlanningEmeritus Professor of History at the University of CambridgeLucy RiallProfessor of History at Birkbeck, University of LondonMike RapportSenior Lecturer in History at the University of Stirling.Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2517</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cpf.mp3" length="29365000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120119-1115.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cpf.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cpf.mp3" fileSize="29365000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2517" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b019gy9p</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Safavid Dynasty</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Safavid Dynasty, rulers of the Persian empire between the 16th and 18th centuries.In 1501 Shah Ismail, a boy of fifteen, declared himself ruler of Azerbaijan. Within a year he had expanded his territory to include most of Persia, and founded a ruling dynasty which was to last for more than two hundred years. At the peak of their success the Safavids ruled over a vast territory which included all of modern-day Iran. They converted their subjects to Shi'a Islam, and so created the religious identity of modern Iran - although they were also often ruthless in their suppression of Sunni practices. They thrived on international trade, and their capital Isfahan, rebuilt by the visionary Shah Abbas, became one of the most magnificent cities in the world. Under Safavid rule Persia became a cultural centre, producing many great artists and thinkers. With:Robert GleaveProfessor of Arabic Studies at the University of ExeterEmma LoosleySenior Lecturer at the School of Arts, Histories and Cultures at the University of ManchesterAndrew NewmanReader in Islamic Studies and Persian at the University of Edinburgh.Producer: Thomas Morris.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Safavid Dynasty of early modern Iran.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Safavid Dynasty, rulers of the Persian empire between the 16th and 18th centuries.In 1501 Shah Ismail, a boy of fifteen, declared himself ruler of Azerbaijan. Within a year he had expanded his territory to include most of Persia, and founded a ruling dynasty which was to last for more than two hundred years. At the peak of their success the Safavids ruled over a vast territory which included all of modern-day Iran. They converted their subjects to Shi'a Islam, and so created the religious identity of modern Iran - although they were also often ruthless in their suppression of Sunni practices. They thrived on international trade, and their capital Isfahan, rebuilt by the visionary Shah Abbas, became one of the most magnificent cities in the world. Under Safavid rule Persia became a cultural centre, producing many great artists and thinkers. With:Robert GleaveProfessor of Arabic Studies at the University of ExeterEmma LoosleySenior Lecturer at the School of Arts, Histories and Cultures at the University of ManchesterAndrew NewmanReader in Islamic Studies and Persian at the University of Edinburgh.Producer: Thomas Morris.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2528</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cpx.mp3" length="29493333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20120112-1230.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cpx.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cpx.mp3" fileSize="29493333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2528" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b0196tcr</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Macromolecules</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the giant molecules that form the basis of all life. Macromolecules, also known as polymers, are long chains of atoms. They form the proteins that make up our bodies, as well as many of the materials of modern life. Man's ability to mimic the structure of macromolecules has led to the invention of plastics such as nylon, paints and adhesives. Most of our clothes are made of macromolecules, and our food is macromolecular. The medical sciences are making increasingly sophisticated use of macromolecules, from growing replacement skin and bone to their increasing use in drug delivery. One of the most famous macromolecules is DNA, an infinitely more complex polymer than man has ever managed to produce. We've only known about macromolecules for just over a century, so what is the story behind them and how might they change our lives in the future?With:Tony RyanPro-Vice Chancellor for the Faculty of Science at the University of SheffieldAthene DonaldProfessor of Experimental Physics at the University of Cambridge and a Fellow of Robinson CollegeCharlotte WilliamsReader in Polymer Chemistry and Catalysis at Imperial College, London Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the giant molecules that underpin all life.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the giant molecules that form the basis of all life. Macromolecules, also known as polymers, are long chains of atoms. They form the proteins that make up our bodies, as well as many of the materials of modern life. Man's ability to mimic the structure of macromolecules has led to the invention of plastics such as nylon, paints and adhesives. Most of our clothes are made of macromolecules, and our food is macromolecular. The medical sciences are making increasingly sophisticated use of macromolecules, from growing replacement skin and bone to their increasing use in drug delivery. One of the most famous macromolecules is DNA, an infinitely more complex polymer than man has ever managed to produce. We've only known about macromolecules for just over a century, so what is the story behind them and how might they change our lives in the future?With:Tony RyanPro-Vice Chancellor for the Faculty of Science at the University of SheffieldAthene DonaldProfessor of Experimental Physics at the University of Cambridge and a Fellow of Robinson CollegeCharlotte WilliamsReader in Polymer Chemistry and Catalysis at Imperial College, London Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 29 Dec 2011 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2532</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5crl.mp3" length="29540000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20111229-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5crl.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5crl.mp3" fileSize="29540000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2532" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b018grhm</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Robinson Crusoe</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Daniel Defoe's novel Robinson Crusoe. Published in 1719, it was an immediate success and is considered the classic adventure story. There are several incidents that may have inspired the tale, although none of them exactly mirrors Defoe's thrilling yet didactic narrative. The plot is now universally known - the sailor stranded on a desert island who learns to tame the environment and the native population. The character of Friday, Crusoe's trusty companion and servant, has become almost as famous as Crusoe himself and their master-servant relationship forms one of the principal themes in the novel. Robinson Crusoe has been interpreted in myriad ways, from colonial fable to religious instruction manual to capitalist tract; although arguably above all of these, it is perhaps best known today as a children's story. With:Karen O'BrienPro-Vice Chancellor for Education at the University of Birmingham Judith HawleyProfessor of Eighteenth-Century Literature at Royal Holloway, University of LondonBob OwensEmeritus Professor of English Literature at the Open UniversityProducer: Natalia Fernandez.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Daniel Defoe's seminal novel Robinson Crusoe.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Daniel Defoe's novel Robinson Crusoe. Published in 1719, it was an immediate success and is considered the classic adventure story. There are several incidents that may have inspired the tale, although none of them exactly mirrors Defoe's thrilling yet didactic narrative. The plot is now universally known - the sailor stranded on a desert island who learns to tame the environment and the native population. The character of Friday, Crusoe's trusty companion and servant, has become almost as famous as Crusoe himself and their master-servant relationship forms one of the principal themes in the novel. Robinson Crusoe has been interpreted in myriad ways, from colonial fable to religious instruction manual to capitalist tract; although arguably above all of these, it is perhaps best known today as a children's story. With:Karen O'BrienPro-Vice Chancellor for Education at the University of Birmingham Judith HawleyProfessor of Eighteenth-Century Literature at Royal Holloway, University of LondonBob OwensEmeritus Professor of English Literature at the Open UniversityProducer: Natalia Fernandez.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 22 Dec 2011 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2524</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5csb.mp3" length="29446666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20111222-1215.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5csb.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5csb.mp3" fileSize="29446666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2524" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b018flp4</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Concordat of Worms</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Concordat of Worms. This treaty between the papacy and the Holy Roman Empire, signed in 1122, put an end, at least for a time, to years of power struggle and bloodshed. The wrangling between the German kings and the Church over who had the ultimate authority to elect bishops, use the ceremonial symbols of office in his coronation and even choose the pope himself, was responsible for centuries of discord. The hatred between the two parties reached such a pinnacle that it resulted in the virtual destruction of Rome at the hands of the Normans in 1084.Nearly forty years later Emperor Henry V and Pope Calixtus II came to a compromise; their agreement became known as the Concordat of Worms, named after the town where they met and signed the treaty. The Concordat created a historic distinction between secular power and spiritual authority, and more clearly defined the respective powers of monarchs and the Church. Although in the short term the Concordat failed to prevent further conflict, some historians believe that it paved the way for the modern nation-state.With:Henrietta LeyserEmeritus Fellow of St Peter's College, University of OxfordKate CushingReader in Medieval History at Keele University John Gillingham Emeritus Professor of History at the London School of Economics and Political Science Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Concordat of Worms of 1122.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Concordat of Worms. This treaty between the papacy and the Holy Roman Empire, signed in 1122, put an end, at least for a time, to years of power struggle and bloodshed. The wrangling between the German kings and the Church over who had the ultimate authority to elect bishops, use the ceremonial symbols of office in his coronation and even choose the pope himself, was responsible for centuries of discord. The hatred between the two parties reached such a pinnacle that it resulted in the virtual destruction of Rome at the hands of the Normans in 1084.Nearly forty years later Emperor Henry V and Pope Calixtus II came to a compromise; their agreement became known as the Concordat of Worms, named after the town where they met and signed the treaty. The Concordat created a historic distinction between secular power and spiritual authority, and more clearly defined the respective powers of monarchs and the Church. Although in the short term the Concordat failed to prevent further conflict, some historians believe that it paved the way for the modern nation-state.With:Henrietta LeyserEmeritus Fellow of St Peter's College, University of OxfordKate CushingReader in Medieval History at Keele University John Gillingham Emeritus Professor of History at the London School of Economics and Political Science Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 15 Dec 2011 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2512</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5csv.mp3" length="29306666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20111215-1100.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5csv.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5csv.mp3" fileSize="29306666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2512" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b0184v2j</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Heraclitus</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus. Writing in the 5th century BC, Heraclitus believed that everything is constantly changing or, as he put it, in flux. He expressed this thought in a famous epigram: &quot;No man ever steps into the same river twice.&quot; Heraclitus is often considered an enigmatic thinker, and much of his work is complex and puzzling. He was critical of the poets Homer and Hesiod, whom he considered to be ignorant, and accused the mathematician Pythagoras (who may have been his contemporary) of making things up. Heraclitus despaired of men's folly, and in his work constantly strove to encourage people to consider matters from alternative perspectives. Donkeys prefer rubbish to gold, he observed, pointing out that the same thing can have different meanings to different people.Unlike most of his contemporaries he was not associated with a particular school or disciplinary approach, although he did have his followers. At times a rationalist, at others a mystic, Heraclitus is an intriguing figure who influenced major later philosophers and movements such as Plato and the Stoics.With:Angie HobbsAssociate Professor of Philosophy and Senior Fellow in the Public Understanding of Philosophy at the University of WarwickPeter AdamsonProfessor of Ancient and Medieval Philosophy at King's College LondonJames WarrenSenior Lecturer in Classics and a Fellow of Corpus Christi College, University of CambridgeProducer: Natalia Fernandez.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus. Writing in the 5th century BC, Heraclitus believed that everything is constantly changing or, as he put it, in flux. He expressed this thought in a famous epigram: &quot;No man ever steps into the same river twice.&quot; Heraclitus is often considered an enigmatic thinker, and much of his work is complex and puzzling. He was critical of the poets Homer and Hesiod, whom he considered to be ignorant, and accused the mathematician Pythagoras (who may have been his contemporary) of making things up. Heraclitus despaired of men's folly, and in his work constantly strove to encourage people to consider matters from alternative perspectives. Donkeys prefer rubbish to gold, he observed, pointing out that the same thing can have different meanings to different people.Unlike most of his contemporaries he was not associated with a particular school or disciplinary approach, although he did have his followers. At times a rationalist, at others a mystic, Heraclitus is an intriguing figure who influenced major later philosophers and movements such as Plato and the Stoics.With:Angie HobbsAssociate Professor of Philosophy and Senior Fellow in the Public Understanding of Philosophy at the University of WarwickPeter AdamsonProfessor of Ancient and Medieval Philosophy at King's College LondonJames WarrenSenior Lecturer in Classics and a Fellow of Corpus Christi College, University of CambridgeProducer: Natalia Fernandez.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 08 Dec 2011 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2517</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5ctr.mp3" length="29365000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20111208-1145.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5ctr.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5ctr.mp3" fileSize="29365000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2517" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b017x3p4</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Christina Rossetti</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and work of the Victorian poet Christina Rossetti. Rossetti was born into an artistic family and her siblings included Dante Gabriel, one of the leading lights of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, to whose journal, 'The Germ', Christina contributed poems. She was a devout Anglican all her life and her religious beliefs are a recurring theme in her work. Christina never married, although she was engaged twice - one of her fiancés was the Pre-Raphaelite painter, James Collinson. She spent her time writing and volunteering for charitable works. It is said she even considered going to the Crimea with Florence Nightingale, but in the end ill health prevented her from doing so. Best known for her ballads and long narrative poems, she also wrote some prose and children's verses. Christina was admired by contemporaries including Swinburne, Tennyson and Elizabeth Barrett Browning. Her work was to have an influence on later writers such as Virginia Woolf and Gerard Manley Hopkins. Rossetti's poetry has a spirituality and sensitivity that has led to her redisovery in recent decades, not least by feminist critics who praise her powerful and independent poetic voice. With:Dinah BirchProfessor of English Literature and Pro-Vice Chancellor for Research at Liverpool University Rhian WilliamsLecturer in Nineteenth-Century English Literature at the University of GlasgowNicholas ShrimptonEmeritus Fellow of Lady Margaret Hall, University of Oxford Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Victorian poet Christina Rossetti.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the life and work of the Victorian poet Christina Rossetti. Rossetti was born into an artistic family and her siblings included Dante Gabriel, one of the leading lights of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, to whose journal, 'The Germ', Christina contributed poems. She was a devout Anglican all her life and her religious beliefs are a recurring theme in her work. Christina never married, although she was engaged twice - one of her fiancés was the Pre-Raphaelite painter, James Collinson. She spent her time writing and volunteering for charitable works. It is said she even considered going to the Crimea with Florence Nightingale, but in the end ill health prevented her from doing so. Best known for her ballads and long narrative poems, she also wrote some prose and children's verses. Christina was admired by contemporaries including Swinburne, Tennyson and Elizabeth Barrett Browning. Her work was to have an influence on later writers such as Virginia Woolf and Gerard Manley Hopkins. Rossetti's poetry has a spirituality and sensitivity that has led to her redisovery in recent decades, not least by feminist critics who praise her powerful and independent poetic voice. With:Dinah BirchProfessor of English Literature and Pro-Vice Chancellor for Research at Liverpool University Rhian WilliamsLecturer in Nineteenth-Century English Literature at the University of GlasgowNicholas ShrimptonEmeritus Fellow of Lady Margaret Hall, University of Oxford Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2512</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cvt.mp3" length="29306666" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20111201-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cvt.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cvt.mp3" fileSize="29306666" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2512" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b017mvwy</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Judas Maccabeus</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the revolutionary Jewish leader Judas Maccabeus. Born in the second century BC, Judas led his followers, the Maccabees, in a rebellion against the Seleucid Empire, which was attempting to impose the Greek culture and religion on the Jews. After a succession of battles he succeeded and the Seleucid king granted the Jews religious freedom. But even after that freedom was granted the struggle for political independence continued, and it was not until twenty years after Judas's death that Judaea finally became an independent state. Thanks to an extensive, if often confused, historical record of these events, the story of the Maccabees is well known. Judas Maccabeus has become a celebrated folk hero, and one of his achievements, the restoration and purification of the Temple of Jerusalem after its desecration by the Seleucids, is commemorated every year at the Jewish festival of Hanukkah.With: Helen Bond, Senior Lecturer in the New Testament at Edinburgh University Tessa Rajak, Emeritus Professor of Ancient History at the University of ReadingPhilip Alexander, Emeritus Professor of Jewish Studies at the University of ManchesterProducer: Natalia Fernandez.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the revolutionary Jewish leader Judas Maccabeus.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the revolutionary Jewish leader Judas Maccabeus. Born in the second century BC, Judas led his followers, the Maccabees, in a rebellion against the Seleucid Empire, which was attempting to impose the Greek culture and religion on the Jews. After a succession of battles he succeeded and the Seleucid king granted the Jews religious freedom. But even after that freedom was granted the struggle for political independence continued, and it was not until twenty years after Judas's death that Judaea finally became an independent state. Thanks to an extensive, if often confused, historical record of these events, the story of the Maccabees is well known. Judas Maccabeus has become a celebrated folk hero, and one of his achievements, the restoration and purification of the Temple of Jerusalem after its desecration by the Seleucids, is commemorated every year at the Jewish festival of Hanukkah.With: Helen Bond, Senior Lecturer in the New Testament at Edinburgh University Tessa Rajak, Emeritus Professor of Ancient History at the University of ReadingPhilip Alexander, Emeritus Professor of Jewish Studies at the University of ManchesterProducer: Natalia Fernandez.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 24 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2522</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cwh.mp3" length="29423333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20111124-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cwh.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cwh.mp3" fileSize="29423333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2522" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b017cjm8</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>Ptolemy and Ancient Astronomy</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the ancient Greek astronomer and mathematician Ptolemy, and consider how and why his geocentric theory of the universe held sway for so many centuries. In his seminal astronomical work, the Almagest, written in the 2nd century AD, Ptolemy proposed that the Earth was at the centre of the universe and explained all the observed motions of the Sun, Moon, planets and stars with a system of uniform circular motions which he referred to as 'epicycles'. But Ptolemy was a polymath and did not confine his study of the stars to mathematical equations. He was also interested in astrology and his book on this topic, the Tetrabiblos, tackled the spiritual aspects of the cosmos and its influence on individual lives and personalities.Ptolemy's model of the universe remained the dominant one for over a thousand years. It was not until 1543, and Copernicus's heliocentric theory of the world, that the Ptolemaic model was finally challenged, and not until 1609 that Johannes Kepler's New Astronomy put an end to his ideas for good. But how and why did Ptolemy's system survive for so long?With:Liba TaubProfessor of History and Philosophy of Science at Cambridge UniversityJim BennettDirector of the Museum of the History of Science at the University of OxfordCharles BurnettProfessor of the History of Islamic Influences on Europe at the Warburg Institute, University of LondonProducer: Natalia Fernandez.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss Ptolemy and ancient astronomy.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the ancient Greek astronomer and mathematician Ptolemy, and consider how and why his geocentric theory of the universe held sway for so many centuries. In his seminal astronomical work, the Almagest, written in the 2nd century AD, Ptolemy proposed that the Earth was at the centre of the universe and explained all the observed motions of the Sun, Moon, planets and stars with a system of uniform circular motions which he referred to as 'epicycles'. But Ptolemy was a polymath and did not confine his study of the stars to mathematical equations. He was also interested in astrology and his book on this topic, the Tetrabiblos, tackled the spiritual aspects of the cosmos and its influence on individual lives and personalities.Ptolemy's model of the universe remained the dominant one for over a thousand years. It was not until 1543, and Copernicus's heliocentric theory of the world, that the Ptolemaic model was finally challenged, and not until 1609 that Johannes Kepler's New Astronomy put an end to his ideas for good. But how and why did Ptolemy's system survive for so long?With:Liba TaubProfessor of History and Philosophy of Science at Cambridge UniversityJim BennettDirector of the Museum of the History of Science at the University of OxfordCharles BurnettProfessor of the History of Islamic Influences on Europe at the Warburg Institute, University of LondonProducer: Natalia Fernandez.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 17 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2517</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cxb.mp3" length="29365000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20111117-1130.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cxb.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cxb.mp3" fileSize="29365000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2517" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b017528d</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Continental-Analytic Split</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Continental-Analytic split in Western philosophy. Around the beginning of the last century, philosophy began to go down two separate paths, as thinkers from Continental Europe explored the legacy of figures including Friedrich Nietzsche and Martin Heidegger, while those educated in the English-speaking world tended to look to more analytically-inclined philosophers like Bertrand Russell and Gottlob Frege. But the divide between these two schools of thought is not clear cut, and many philosophers even question whether the term 'Continental' is accurate or useful.The Analytic school favours a logical, scientific approach, in contrast to the Continental emphasis on the importance of time and place. But what are the origins of this split and is it possible that contemporary philosophers can bridge the gap between the two? With:Stephen MulhallProfessor of Philosophy at New College, University of OxfordBeatrice Han-PileProfessor of Philosophy at the University of EssexHans Johann-Glock Professor of Philosophy at the University of ZurichProducer: Natalia Fernandez.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Continental and Analytic philosophical traditions.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Continental-Analytic split in Western philosophy. Around the beginning of the last century, philosophy began to go down two separate paths, as thinkers from Continental Europe explored the legacy of figures including Friedrich Nietzsche and Martin Heidegger, while those educated in the English-speaking world tended to look to more analytically-inclined philosophers like Bertrand Russell and Gottlob Frege. But the divide between these two schools of thought is not clear cut, and many philosophers even question whether the term 'Continental' is accurate or useful.The Analytic school favours a logical, scientific approach, in contrast to the Continental emphasis on the importance of time and place. But what are the origins of this split and is it possible that contemporary philosophers can bridge the gap between the two? With:Stephen MulhallProfessor of Philosophy at New College, University of OxfordBeatrice Han-PileProfessor of Philosophy at the University of EssexHans Johann-Glock Professor of Philosophy at the University of ZurichProducer: Natalia Fernandez.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 10 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2526</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cyh.mp3" length="29470000" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20111110-1045.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cyh.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cyh.mp3" fileSize="29470000" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2526" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b016x2jp</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Moon</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the origins, science and mythology of the moon. Humans have been fascinated by our only known satellite since prehistory. In some cultures the Moon has been worshipped as a deity; in recent centuries there has been lively debate about its origins and physical characteristics. Although other planets in our solar system have moons ours is, relatively speaking, the largest, and is perhaps more accurately described as a 'twin planet'; the past, present and future of the Earth and the Moon are locked together. Only very recently has water been found on the Moon - a discovery which could prove to be invaluable if human colonisation of the Moon were ever to occur. Mankind first walked on the Moon in 1969, but it is debatable how important this huge political event was in developing our scientific knowledge. The advances of space science, including data from satellites and the moon landings, have given us some startling insights into the history of our own planet, but many intriguing questions remain unanswered. With:Paul MurdinVisiting Professor of Astronomy at Liverpool John Moores UniversityCarolin CrawfordGresham Professor of Astronomy at the University of Cambridge Ian CrawfordReader in Planetary Science and Astrobiology at Birkbeck College, London.Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the origins, science and mythology of the moon.</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the origins, science and mythology of the moon. Humans have been fascinated by our only known satellite since prehistory. In some cultures the Moon has been worshipped as a deity; in recent centuries there has been lively debate about its origins and physical characteristics. Although other planets in our solar system have moons ours is, relatively speaking, the largest, and is perhaps more accurately described as a 'twin planet'; the past, present and future of the Earth and the Moon are locked together. Only very recently has water been found on the Moon - a discovery which could prove to be invaluable if human colonisation of the Moon were ever to occur. Mankind first walked on the Moon in 1969, but it is debatable how important this huge political event was in developing our scientific knowledge. The advances of space science, including data from satellites and the moon landings, have given us some startling insights into the history of our own planet, but many intriguing questions remain unanswered. With:Paul MurdinVisiting Professor of Astronomy at Liverpool John Moores UniversityCarolin CrawfordGresham Professor of Astronomy at the University of Cambridge Ian CrawfordReader in Planetary Science and Astrobiology at Birkbeck College, London.Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2523</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cz4.mp3" length="29434999" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20111103-1115.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cz4.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5cz4.mp3" fileSize="29434999" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2523" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b016lh15</ppg:canonical> </item>  <item> <title>The Siege of Tenochtitlan</title> <description>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Siege of Tenochtitlan. In 1521 the Spanish conquistador Hernan Cortes led an army of Spanish and native forces against the city of Tenochtitlan, the spectacular island capital of the Aztec civilisation. At first Cortes had been welcomed by the Aztec leader, Moctezuma, and he and his men were treated like kings. But their friendship proved short-lived, and soon celebrations turned into vicious fighting. After a prolonged siege and fierce battle, in which many thousands died, the city finally fell. This major confrontation between Old and New Worlds precipitated the downfall of the Aztec Empire, and marked a new phase in European colonisation of the Americas.With:Alan Knight Professor of the History of Latin America at the University of OxfordElizabeth GrahamProfessor of Mesoamerican Archaeology at University College, LondonCaroline Dodds Pennock Lecturer in International History at the University of Sheffield Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</description> <itunes:subtitle>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Siege of Tenochtitlan and fall of the Aztec Empire</itunes:subtitle> <itunes:summary>Melvyn Bragg and his guests discuss the Siege of Tenochtitlan. In 1521 the Spanish conquistador Hernan Cortes led an army of Spanish and native forces against the city of Tenochtitlan, the spectacular island capital of the Aztec civilisation. At first Cortes had been welcomed by the Aztec leader, Moctezuma, and he and his men were treated like kings. But their friendship proved short-lived, and soon celebrations turned into vicious fighting. After a prolonged siege and fierce battle, in which many thousands died, the city finally fell. This major confrontation between Old and New Worlds precipitated the downfall of the Aztec Empire, and marked a new phase in European colonisation of the Americas.With:Alan Knight Professor of the History of Latin America at the University of OxfordElizabeth GrahamProfessor of Mesoamerican Archaeology at University College, LondonCaroline Dodds Pennock Lecturer in International History at the University of Sheffield Producer: Natalia Fernandez.</itunes:summary> <pubDate>Thu, 27 Oct 2011 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>  <itunes:duration>2528</itunes:duration> <enclosure url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5czl.mp3" length="29493333" type="audio/mpeg" /> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/radio4/iot/iot_20111027-1115.mp3</guid> <link>http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5czl.mp3</link>  <itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit>  <media:content url="http://open.live.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/5/redir/version/2.0/mediaset/audio-nondrm-download/proto/http/vpid/p02q5czl.mp3" fileSize="29493333" type="audio/mpeg" medium="audio" expression="full" duration="2528" /> <itunes:author>BBC Radio 4</itunes:author> <ppg:canonical>/programmes/b016924x</ppg:canonical> </item>  </channel> </rss>