Casting Through Ancient Greece

How did Athenian victories at Pylos and Sphacteria become the turning point in the Peloponnesian War? Discover how these pivotal moments forced Sparta to rethink their entire strategy and seek diplomatic solutions. We explore the newfound aggression in Athenian tactics as they aimed to isolate Sparta by targeting its allies, reshaping the geopolitical landscape of ancient Greece. Uncover the dramatic and covert plans of Athenian generals Demosthenes and Hippocrates as they attempted to capture Megara amid its internal political chaos. The city, caught between conflicting factions, became a crucial battleground. Our narrative delves into the tense standoff that ensued when the plot was exposed, highlighting the complex interplay of local politics and strategic military operations. Lastly, we shift our focus to the Athenian invasion of Boeotia and the consequential Battle of Delium. Learn about the strategic decisions and unique tactical formations employed by the Boeotians under Pagondas' command. From impassioned speeches to chaotic clashes, we unravel the heavy casualties and pivotal outcomes that redefined ancient Greek warfare. Tune in for an insightful analysis of these significant events and their lasting impact. Support the Show.

Ever wondered how a single year could turn the tide in a protracted war? This episode takes you deep into the seventh year of the Peloponnesian War, uncovering the critical strategies and events that reshaped the conflict. As we shift our focus to the campaigning season of 425 BC, the narrative gets even more gripping. Discover how Athens leveraged treachery and strategic brilliance to capture Anactunorium and gain control over the Peloponnesian fleet. The collapse of Spartan military prestige and the waning threats from Syracuse and Persia allowed Athens to strengthen its empire and secure its dominance by the end of the year. These developments set the stage for Athens to reassess its imperial strategies and bolster its defences, reshaping the balance of power in the war. In our final segment, we dissect the aggressive Athenian campaigns that followed their successes at Sphacteria. The capture of Cythera and Thyrea, along with the invasions of Spartan territories, reveal a shift in Athenian military policy influenced by internal rivalries between figures like Cleon and Nicias. We delve into the political ramifications of these actions and how they exacerbated Spartan vulnerabilities. Join us as we unravel the dramatic shift in the course of the Peloponnesian War, showcasing Athens' ascension and Sparta's stagnation during these critical years. Support the Show.

This is a teaser of the bonus episode, "Defence at Thermopylae" found over on Patreon. What if a mere 300 soldiers stood between freedom and subjugation? Uncover the strategic genius and historical significance behind the Greek defence at Thermopylae during the Persian invasion. We'll break down why the rugged terrain of Thermopylae was the perfect stage for the Greek hoplites to mitigate the Persian numerical advantage and cavalry. Discover how the crucial naval defence at Artemisium played into this masterful coordination. We also dive into the fascinating rationale behind sending only 300 Spartans into battle and examine the total Greek forces involved in this legendary three-day clash. The fall of Thermopylae is more than just a tale of heroism; it's a story of political intrigue and tactical brilliance. Explore the influence of a prophetic message from Delphi and Sparta's internal politics on the decision-making process. Was Thermopylae merely a holding action? We’ll dissect the implications for broader Spartan and Peloponnesian strategies. Relive each pivotal moment of the battle as the Greeks held their own against overwhelming odds—until betrayal exposed a critical mountain path to Xerxes. If you would like to hear more and support the series click on the Patreon link at the bottom of the page or you can head to my website to discover other ways to support the series, Here Support the Show.

The Athenian expedition to Sicily was an unexpected chapter in the Peloponnesian War, characterized by strategic missteps and unforeseen outcomes. As the Athenian fleet set out to aid their allies in Sicily against Syracuse, they found themselves caught in the whirlwind of war that stretched across the Greek world. From the Athenian prisoners on Sphacteria to the civil unrest in Corcyra, each event cascaded into the next, shaping the trajectory of the war. The delayed arrival of Athenian reinforcements to Sicily allowed Syracuse to regroup and counter-attack, leading to a stalemate that ultimately required Athenian withdrawal—a testament to the volatility of war and the importance of timely strategic decisions. Amidst this complex backdrop, the Battle of Pylos stands as a testament to Athenian ingenuity and Spartan bravery. Demosthenes, the Athenian commander, overcame limited resources to construct strategic defenses at Pylos, setting the stage for a confrontation that would defy the expectations of both sides. The Spartans launched a ferocious assault, only to be repelled by the clever positioning and steadfastness of the Athenian defenders. The subsequent arrival of the Athenian fleet tipped the scales, demonstrating the razor-thin margin between victory and defeat in ancient warfare. The political theatre that followed was equally charged. The peace negotiations between Athens and Sparta revealed the delicate balance of power and the grave consequences of political decisions. Sparta's willingness to negotiate due to the potential loss of their elite hoplites showcased the high stakes of the conflict. Yet, the breakdown of talks plunged the Greek world back into the throes of war, underscoring the fragility of peace in a time of unyielding ambition and honour. The Siege of Sphacteria, a decisive engagement in the war, illustrated the strategic acumen of the Athenians under the joint command of Cleon and Demosthenes. Employing a mix of hoplites, archers, and light troops, the Athenians outmanoeuvred the Spartans, ultimately forcing a surrender that marked a watershed moment in Greek warfare. This victory, however, was not without its political machinations. The intense debates within the Athenian Assembly, the advocacy of Cleon, and the opposition from Nicias revealed the intricate relationship between military action and political manoeuvring. The surrender of the Spartan forces on Sphacteria was a moment that altered the course of the Peloponnesian War. The image of Spartan warriors, famed for their indomitable spirit, surrendering to their Athenian captors was a stark contrast to their ancestors' last stand at Thermopylae. This historic event not only shifted the balance of power but also sent ripples through the societal structures of Sparta, igniting fears of helot uprisings and prompting desperate, yet futile, diplomatic efforts to reclaim Pylos and negotiate peace. In sum, the Peloponnesian War's defining moments—from the Athenian naval might to the Spartan surrender on land—paint a vivid portrait of ancient warfare, political dynamics, and the enduring human quest for dominance. It's a narrative that continues to resonate through the ages, reminding us of the timeless lessons of history and the ever-present echoes of the past in our modern world. Support the Show.

This is a teaser of the bonus episode, "Defence at Artemisium" found over on Patreon. Welcome back, we delve deep into the annals of history to uncover the stories that shaped our world. Today, we're setting sail to the ancient waters of Artemisium, where a pivotal moment in Greek history unfolded. Picture this: It's 480 BCE, and the Persian Empire, led by the indomitable Xerxes, is sweeping across the Aegean Sea with an armada of unprecedented size. But standing in their path are the courageous Greeks, determined to defend their homeland against overwhelming odds. As the Persian juggernaut advances, the Greeks, under the strategic guidance of Themistocles, must make a critical decision: where to make their stand. And so, they choose Artemisium, a narrow strait off the coast of Euboea. But why Artemisium? What factors led the Greeks to select this seemingly precarious location to confront the mighty Persian fleet? Was it merely a strategic necessity, or were there deeper reasons at play? Join me as we unravel the mysteries of Artemisium, exploring the geography, the tactics, and the sheer determination of the Greek defenders. Together, we'll uncover the untold stories behind one of history's most remarkable battles, and gain new insights into the timeless art of war. So hoist the sails, sharpen your spears, and prepare to journey back in time to the windswept shores of Artemisium. Our odyssey begins now. If you would like to hear more and support the series click on the Patreon link at the bottom of the page or you can head to my website to discover other ways to support the series, Here Support the Show.

Step back in time with me, Mark Selleck, as we trace the footsteps of Athenian generals post-Pericles, navigating the perilous landscape of public dissent and audacious military campaigns. The death of Pericles marked a significant pivot in Athenian strategy, and we'll peel back the layers of this tumultuous era, scrutinizing the aggressive maneuvers that propelled the city-state into the contentious Sicilian expedition. On the Spartan side, delve into the mysteries shrouding King Plistoanax's comeback and the alleged bribery scandal involving the Oracle of Delphi—an episode that further complicates the rich tapestry of Ancient Greek politics. Feel the ground shake beneath your feet as we recount how natural disasters left indelible marks on Greek military decisions. The Spartans' superstitious interpretations of earthquakes fuelled a reimagining of their war tactics, prompting them to establish Heraclea. We'll examine how this strategic pivot eventually lost its lustre due to a combination of diplomatic hostility and internal mismanagement, revealing a side of Spartan governance seldom seen in their laconic annals. The episode culminates with a gripping recount of the Athenian military blunders and unexpected victories. Demosthenes' disastrous Aetolian campaign serves as a stark reminder of the volatility of ancient warfare. Yet, amidst catastrophe, the crafty general redeems himself with a masterful victory in Ambracia. The resulting stalemate in the region underscores the broader lesson of our episode: that the tides of war in Ancient Greece were as unpredictable as they were ruthless. Join us for an enthralling exploration of this era's strategic intricacies and shifting alliances. Support the Show.

This is a teaser of the bonus episode, "The Greeks Unite" found over on Patreon. Transitioning from the Persian might, our episode casts light on the labyrinthine world of Greek polis. We unveil how over a thousand autonomous entities, with their own dialects, governments, and customs, confronted an existential threat. The Greeks' struggle for unity is a narrative of alliances forged in the crucible of necessity, a testament to the power of collective action in the face of overwhelming odds. Accompanying us on this historical deep dive is our special guest, an esteemed historian whose knowledge paints a vibrant picture of an era where the fates of empires and free cities hung in the balance. If you would like to hear more and support the series click on the Patreon link at the bottom of the page or you can head to my website to discover other ways to support the series, Here Support the Show.

Embark on a voyage through the tempestuous waters of ancient Sicilian politics, where our narrative charts the ascendancy of Syracuse amidst a maelstrom of democracies emerging from tyrannical ruins. Unearth the seismic shifts in Athenian foreign policy that set a fleet towards Sicily's shores, seeking to weave a web of influence that could ensnare the Peloponnesian war machine. Witness the Athenian fleet, under the command of Laches and Charoeades, as it threads through the Mediterranean, capturing cities and igniting the fuse of local uprisings with the promise of freedom from Syracuse's grip. The labyrinthine complexities of war and diplomacy play out across the Sicilian stage, where each move is a calculated risk in the pursuit of dominance. The Athenian quest for Sicilian allegiance unfolds with a narrative vigour, painting a vivid portrait of ancient warfare and the ever-present shadow of defeat. Succumb to the enthralling tale of Athens' audacious Sicilian expedition, from the strategic insight behind their push into the western world to the unforeseen ramifications of their actions. The episode intricately weaves together the triumphs and tribulations of Athenian commanders, the resilience of cities, and the undercurrents of political change that ripple through time. Join us for a compelling recount of an era where the fates of empires hung by a thread, and the echoes of ancient strategies still resonate in the annals of history. Support the Show.

As we gather today to mark a remarkable journey through the annals of Greek history, I am filled with gratitude and excitement. Together, we've traversed 83 episodes, spanning the rich tapestry of Greece from its nascent days to the dramatic onset of the Peloponnesian War. Looking ahead, I'm thrilled to contemplate the untold stories that may unfold beyond Alexander the Great's demise. It's a testament to your engagement and curiosity that we're even considering this expansion of our historical horizon. Moreover, I want to share a heartfelt thank you for your steadfast support—without which this podcast couldn't thrive. The evolution of our release schedule to a monthly episode is a move to safeguard the caliber of our storytelling, balancing the growing demands on my time with my commitment to providing you with the best possible listening experience. Turning our gaze to the revamped Patreon offerings, we've sculpted new tiers with the aim of making our content even more rewarding and accessible. As we forge into the year ahead, anticipate a fresh rhythm of episodes—each one meticulously crafted for mid-month release, while our dedicated patrons can look forward to exclusive early-month content. I invite both our seasoned supporters and newcomers to explore the refreshed Patreon landscape, where a deeper dive into Greek history awaits. Your enthusiasm has been the bedrock of this podcast, and I'm eager to continue this shared passion for the stories that have shaped our world, as we embark on the next chapter of our historical quest. Support the Show.

This is a teaser of the bonus episode, "Xerxes Invasion" found over on Patreon. Step back in time with us and uncover the epic saga of Xerxes' colossal invasion of Greece. Imagine inheriting a crown and a vendetta: that's exactly what Xerxes faced as he ascended to the Persian throne, but was he burning with the ambition to subjugate all of Greece? As your guide through this march into history, I'll take you through the aftermath of the First Persian Invasion, revealing how initial Persian endeavours sowed the seeds for an even grander campaign. We'll scrutinize Xerxes' grandiose preparations for war, from manipulating Greek city-states to bend the knee through 'Medizing' to constructing monumental engineering marvels like the canal through Mount Athos and the bridge over the Hellespont. These efforts etched themselves into the annals of history, setting the stage for a conflict of legendary proportions. If you would like to hear more and support the series click on the Patreon link at the bottom of the page or you can head to my website to discover other ways to support the series, Here Support the Show.

Prepare to be transported to a Sicily that's both ancient and alive, where democracy's roots intertwine with the whispers of tyrants. On our historical odyssey, we'll traverse the landscapes of power, betrayal, and the unending quest for dominion. I promise an expedition into the heart of Sicilian intrigue, from the liberation of Syracuse to the theatrics of Hieron's tyranny, and the eventual emergence of revolutions that would forever alter the island's destiny. Our narrative begins in the aftermath of the Greco-Persian Wars, charting a course through Sicily's golden age of peace to the tumultuous tides of 427 BCE. We won't shy away from the stark contrasts of rule, examining the cunning manoeuvres of Hieron as he clings to power, the bloody outcomes of political machinations, and the indelible marks left by tyrants on the fabric of their cities. Finally, wisdom takes centre stage as we scrutinize the counsel of Simonides to Hieron, juxtaposing the downfalls of despots with the democratic reawakening of Syracuse. The intricate dance of Sicilian politics continues with revolts and power shifts, where the spectre of tyranny lingers, and the ambitions of leaders like Ducetius spark conflict and change. Join us for a profound look at ancient strategies and the timeless struggle for power, as we piece together the lessons history has etched into the stones of Sicily, setting the chessboard for the Sicilian expedition that awaits over a decade later. Support the Show.

This is a teaser of the bonus episode, Miltiades found over on Patreon. Travel back in time to fifth century BC Athens, where the life of Miltiades—a man whose lineage was synonymous with both nobility and concern—takes center stage. From the influence of his uncle, Miltiades the Elder, to the Olympic chariot racing triumphs of his family, we explore the ascent and inevitable downfall of this enigmatic leader. As we weave through the tapestry of Miltiades' life, we're reminded of the fickleness of fame, especially in the volatile political climate of ancient Athens. It’s a story rich with the spoils of victory and the shadows of disgrace—a true reflection of the tumultuous era that shaped it. If you would like to hear more and support the series click on the Patreon link at the bottom of the page or you can head to my website to discover other ways to support the series, HereI Support the Show.

Uncover the chilling drama of ancient conflict as we journey through the shadows of the Peloponnesian War—revealing the political chaos of Corcyra, and the tragedy of Plataea. This episode uncovers the tales of rebellion, siege, and the sobering reality of political strife, all through the compelling lens of Thucydides' historical narratives. Be prepared to witness the darker side of human nature, where the lust for power leads to a breakdown in social order and a wave of indiscriminate violence that shook the very foundations of Ancient Greece. Step into the political arena of Corcyra where calculated moves and internal turmoil illustrate the complexities of Greek politics. We navigate through the strategic decisions that inflamed tensions and trace the harrowing outcomes of a society caught in the crossfire of war. The episode lays bare the ruthless political manoeuvres in a landscape fraught with desperation and strategic miscalculations, providing you with a profound understanding of the motivations and consequences that characterized one of history's most infamous conflicts. Join us and experience the intensity of a period where the line between friend and foe was perilously thin. Support the Show.

Welcome to this bonus instalment of episodes for January. The Marathon mini series has been apart of the members episodes over on Patreon. For the month of January I have decided to make this series of 5 episodes available to all to say thank you for all the support over the year. Get in and listen when you can as they will go back to Patreon only at the start of February. Step into the past with us as we unfurl the mysteries of the ancient Battle of Marathon, a clash that shaped our history and sparked the creation of one of the world's most enduring athletic challenges. Will the true story of the first Marathon runner stand the test of time, or is it merely a fable woven by historians? In the heart of the episode, we dissect the legendary confrontation between the Athenians and Persians, analyzing their military tactics and the haunting void left by the missing Persian cavalry. We recount the Athenian victory, a chaotic battle at the shore, and the meticulous casualty reports from Herodotus, all while chasing the ghost of the fabled Marathon runner through the narratives of Plutarch and Lucian. Probe the depths of historical authenticity with us as we scrutinize the tales spun by ancient biographers, measuring their penchant for drama against Herodotus's grounded chronicles. Could the staggering endurance of a lone herald or an entire army on the march back to Athens be more than a legend? Our exploration goes beyond the celebrated victory to peer into the life of Miltiades, the strategic genius behind the Greek triumph. Join us on this journey through time as we tackle the challenges of piecing together truth from antiquity, leaving no stone unturned in our quest to separate fact from centuries-old fiction. Support the show

Welcome to this bonus instalment of episodes for January. The Marathon mini series has been apart of the members episodes over on Patreon. For the month of January I have decided to make this series of 5 episodes available to all to say thank you for all the support over the year. Get in and listen when you can as they will go back to Patreon only at the start of February. Unlock the secrets of ancient military strategy as we unravel the enigma of the missing Persian cavalry at the Battle of Marathon. With our historical detective hats on, we traverse through Herodotus's ancient texts, picking apart the clues that point to the cavalry's initial deployment, their mysterious vanishing act, and the potential maneuvers that may have changed the course of history. Our episode peels back the layers of theory and speculation, promising to shed light on a puzzle that has captivated historians for centuries. Embark on a narrative adventure, where each thread of possibility is meticulously examined—from the prospect of devastating casualties to strategic Persian tactics that have remained concealed in the annals of time. We also explore the cryptic Onian proverb and its possible implications for the movements of the Persian horsemen, adding a layer of cultural intrigue to this fascinating historical episode. Prepare to be enthralled by a tale of tactical absence and the ghostly hoofbeats of a cavalry that never charged into one of antiquity's most defining battles. Support the show

Welcome to this bonus instalment of episodes for January. The Marathon mini series has been apart of the members episodes over on Patreon. For the month of January I have decided to make this series of 5 episodes available to all to say thank you for all the support over the year. Get in and listen when you can as they will go back to Patreon only at the start of February. Discover the untold brilliance of ancient Greek warfare as we dissect the strategic mastery that unfolded at the Battle of Marathon. Forget the tired trope of Greek tactics being static; our latest episode unveils a saga of dynamic adaptation and military evolution that turned the tide against the Persians. We'll explore how the Greeks, far from merely reacting, made calculated decisions from the positioning of their camp to their unorthodox charge—a harrowing run toward the enemy lines. The choice of terrain, often thought to be influenced by religious motives, is revealed as a clever guise for a cunning defensive stance. Join us to unravel the true genius behind these ancient warriors whose battlefield intellect has long been underestimated. This episode isn't just a history lesson; it's a thrilling investigation into the mysterious absence of the Persian cavalry and how it shaped the Greeks' tactical approach. With a running advance that would leave most armies breathless, the Athenian commanders didn't just adapt—they revolutionized traditional hoplite warfare to outmaneuver their opponents. Our journey through history will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about the legendary Battle of Marathon. So, gear up for a heart-pounding ride back in time as we pay homage to the tactical innovators of yesteryear, whose legacy has indelibly influenced the Western way of war. Support the show

Welcome to this bonus instalment of episodes for January. The Marathon mini series has been apart of the members episodes over on Patreon. For the month of January I have decided to make this series of 5 episodes available to all to say thank you for all the support over the year. Get in and listen when you can as they will go back to Patreon only at the start of February. Discover the pivotal moments and shrewd manoeuvres that carved the path to victory for the Greeks at the Battle of Marathon. Our exploration is not just a retelling of a historic clash but a careful dissection of the choices and tensions that tipped the scales in an epic confrontation. We unravel the strategic hesitations among the Greek generals and the persuasive power of General Miltiades’ words that propelled the Athenians into decisive action. Together, we'll traverse the craggy landscape of Marathon Bay, probing into the Persian camp's strategic placement and the impact of their absent cavalry on the battle's outcome—questioning not only the historical records but the very tactics that defined ancient warfare. As we scrutinize the layouts of the Greek and Persian forces, the reasoning behind the Athenians' risky placement with mountains at their backs becomes a central enigma. Engage with us in a critical analysis of the battle lines, drawing from the theories that have the Greeks anchoring their right flank by the shore, while the Persians positioned their left, setting the stage for a battle with no easy escape. We sift through alternative narratives and highlight how historical texts from Herodotus to Pausanias may have influenced our modern understanding of these ancient tactics. And as we prepare for our next episode, we'll confront the question: Were the Greeks masters of military innovation, or simply the beneficiaries of luck and timing in war? Join us as we dissect these fascinating dynamics of ancient combat. Support the show

Welcome to this bonus instalment of episodes for January. The Marathon mini series has been apart of the members episodes over on Patreon. For the month of January I have decided to make this series of 5 episodes available to all to say thank you for all the support over the year. Get in and listen when you can as they will go back to Patreon only at the start of February. Unlock the secrets of ancient history as we bring into focus the Battle of Marathon, a monumental clash that reshaped Western civilization. Stand shoulder to shoulder with the Athenian hoplites as they face the might of the Persian empire on the plains of Marathon. Together, we'll explore the mysteries that have baffled historians: the strategic movements, the fabled charge, and the absence of Persian cavalry. And as we parse through the rallying cries of General Miltiades and the internal debates of the Athenians, we set the stage for a fascinating journey into the past. With every detail scrutinized, from the geography of the battlefield to the alliances forged in the heat of battle, this episode promises a rich tapestry of intrigue and bravery. The aftermath of Marathon brings tales of heroism and strategy that echo through the ages. Join us as we dissect the Greek tactical maneuvers and ponder the mile-long Athenian charge, an act of courage—or desperation—that turned the tides of war. Witness the chaos of the retreat and the urgency of the Athenian march to defend their city. And no tale of Marathon would be complete without delving into the saga of Pheidippides, whose legendary run to Athens laid the groundwork for the marathon races of today. Immerse yourself in the drama of battle, the strategies that shaped history, and the legends that inspire us still. This is your expedition into the heart of ancient warfare, where every spear thrown and shield raised tells a story of a world on the brink of transformation. Support the show

Embark on a historical odyssey with us as we temporarily halt our regular series for a well-deserved January respite. However, the annals of ancient Greek history remain open with an exclusive miniseries treat—a deep exploration of the enigmatic Battle of Marathon. Journey back to 490 BC and unravel the mysteries of this legendary conflict through five episodes that will remain unfettered and freely accessible throughout the holiday season, a perfect complement to the main saga awaiting us in the coming months. Looking ahead, we're reigniting the fires of fascination in February, where the narrative torch of the Peloponnesian War will be passed back to you, the esteemed listeners, whose zeal for the past powers our present endeavor. Expect the same meticulous attention to the storied details, driven by your encouragement and curiosity, which not only sustains our regular programming but also breathes life into the bonus content we so love to craft. A heartfelt salute to the patrons whose support elevates our capabilities—their contributions have not only sustained the digital hearth of our series but have also furnished the tools necessary to forge ahead with enhanced vigor. Join us, share with kin and comrades, and continue to shape the future of our historical quest with your invaluable suggestions and enthusiasm. Support the Show.

Are you ready to cross the threshold of time and enter the world of Ancient Greece during the tumultuous political shifts post-Pericles' rule? I invite you to join us on this journey, where we scrutinize the uprising on Lesbos and its profound implications on Spartan maneuvers and Athens' retaliation. As power vacuums arise in Athens, new intriguing figures such as Nikies and Cleon rise to prominence. We delve into the fascinating personas of these men and how Cleon, a successful demagogue, secures his influence. We also shed light on the essence of a demagogue in the realm of Ancient Greek politics and its enduring sway. Strap in as we navigate through the strategic negotiations and invasion preparations post the Olympic festival. We'll also analyse the Mytileneans desperate efforts to garner support from the Peloponnesian League. Watch as events on Lesbos unfold with the Athenians establishing a camp, and the Mytileneans strive to unite the island under their leadership. Lastly, brace yourselves as we explore the chilling decision of the Athenians in the wake of the failed Mytilenean revolt - a decision that echoes through the annals of history as an epoch-defining moment in the landscape of the Peloponnesian War. Support the Show.