Drunk On History

The Greek Symposium

In the third episode of the Drunk On History podcast, host Lauren Dogaer and Professor Nadhira Hill of Randolph-Macon College delve into the fascinating world of ancient Greek drinking practices, particularly focusing on the symposium. Professor Hill explains that the symposium, an all-male drinking party, usually took place in an andron, a rectangular or square space at the home, with a raised platform for reclining couches. In addition, they explore the historical context in which these drinking parties took place, the structure and significance of the symposium, including activities that had nothing to do with drinking, such as reciting poetry or philosophical discussions. The conversation also touches on the role of Dionysus in Greek culture, the importance of moderation and the aspect of hybris, as well as the social dynamics within these drinking events. Through archaeological evidence, especially from Athens and the site Olynthos, and literary sources, they uncover the complexities of social interactions, hierarchies, and cultural aspects surrounding (group) drinking in ancient Greece.

Beer in Bronze Age Mesopotamia

In this fascinating episode, host Lauren Dogaer sits down with Professor Tate Paulette of North Carolina State University, a leading expert in ancient urban food systems and Mesopotamian archaeology. Together, they explore the world of ancient Mesopotamia - often called the cradle of civilization - where the first cities, states, and writing systems emerged around 3000 BC. Tate unpacks the complexities of the region’s identity, from its modern name shaped by colonial history to the rich tapestry of languages and scripts such as cuneiform, Sumerian, and Akkadian. The conversation then turns to a topic both ancient and surprisingly relatable: beer. Drawing on his book In the Land of Ninkasi: A History of Beer in Ancient Mesopotamia, Tate shares his hands-on journey recreating Sumerian brewing practices using ancient ingredients and techniques - including the enigmatic bappir, a key component of Mesopotamian beer. Beyond the brewing process, the episode dives into the cultural significance of beer in Mesopotamian society. From its role in daily life and social rituals to its appearance in literature like the Epic of Gilgamesh, beer emerges as far more than a simple drink - it was a cornerstone of community, culture, and even moral storytelling. This episode offers a rich and refreshing look at how one of humanity’s oldest beverages shaped life in one of its earliest civilizations. More on Tate's Sumerian brewing experiments can be found here: Brewing up something Ancient [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T_Sjt1R55-A] & Human Factor Speaking Series: Alton Brown [https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=dc24EtF_tDBLiYfb&v=yRvKGSaEzCg&feature=youtu.be]

The Social Construct of Alcohol through the Ages

In the inaugural episode of Drunk on History, we’re joined by renowned anthropologist Prof. Michael Dietler for a deep dive into the complex social life of alcohol. Far from being just a beverage, alcohol has long been a powerful cultural force. Professor Dietler unpacks how different societies across history have defined alcohol, ritualized its consumption, and embedded it into systems of identity, power, and belief. From ancient Mediterranean feasting traditions to broader cross-cultural exchanges, this conversation reveals how drinking practices are shaped as much by politics and economics as by taste. Blending archaeology, anthropology, and social theory, this episode challenges modern assumptions about alcohol by placing it in a broader historical framework. Whether you’re interested in ancient civilizations, cultural history, or the politics of pleasure, this conversation invites you to see alcohol not just as a drink — but as a defining element of human society. Pour a glass and join me as we get Drunk on History. 🍷

Show Intro

I am Lauren Dogaer, an Ancient Historian and Egyptologist. Fascinated by history and the ancient world, I truly believe we can learn something valuable from the societies that came before us. So I thought — why not get Drunk on History? Drunk on History is a podcast that explores humanity’s complex relationship with alcohol — from ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia to Rome, Mesoamerica, India, China, and beyond. Together with experts, I dive into how ancient civilizations used, abused, and understood alcohol. How did the ancients manage the age-old question of “How much is too much?” What laws or moral codes tried to curb excess? What can warnings on drinking cups or ancient myths about intoxication tell us about moderation and society? Pour yourself a glass and join me on a journey through time — uncovering how drinking shaped cultures, rituals, and stories throughout the ages.