Kes Publica

Episode 36: Are Violent Computer Games About Rome Realistic?

In this episode we answer the big questions: are games like Rome Total War realistic? What was it actually like to be on the frontline of an ancient battle? What is it that almost all historical writing about warfare misses out? Enjoy!

Episode 35: The Controversial Case of Late Antiquity

In this episode we look at a strange, unsettling, forbidden area of Classics: Late Antiquity. We admit our ignorance and prejudice regarding this neglected and haunted land. Mr Burns makes the case that perhaps we should take another look. We give a broad overview of what happens and why, and what Classicists think of it. We discuss questions such as: what counts as better or worse art? What counts as literary excellence? What counts as history worth studying? Do the words we use such as 'Classics' have their own, subtle effects? Listen to find out more.

Episode 34: Slavery in the Ancient World

This episode is aimed at pupils who are studying slavery in the ancient world in their Latin lessons at KES. However, it is also appropriate for anyone interested in the subject. Mr Burns and Mr Feeney go into depth about the distinctive characteristics of ancient slavery, exploring what it was like and how it was viewed. KES pupils, parents, and indeed anyone else are most welcome to listen in and hear about what students are learning.

Episode 33: Aeneid Book 8 - Part 2

In this episode Mr Burns and Mr Feeney deal with the second half of Book 8. Expect Lord of the Rings comparisons, psychedelic passages about lightning bolts, divine comedy, and of course the inimitable shield of Aeneas. Enjoy!

Episode 32: Aeneid Book 8 - Part 1

The next episode in our Aeneid series for A Level and GCSE students (and anyone else!). Here we tackle the first half of Book 8. Expect fantastic similes, nerdy tangents on guest-friendship and the nature of religious experience, and of course the monster Cacus. We unpick all the different layers of the omens and myths that Virgil throws at the reader, and dispute whether one 'rows' or 'sails' up a river. Enjoy!