Shows
Casting Through Ancient Greece100: Sicily, The Hard Road AheadA shocked city, a careful army, and a plateau that decides everything. We follow the tense weeks after Athens’ first win outside Syracuse, when momentum gave way to method. Nicias, often branded cautious, makes a hard strategic choice: pause late in the season, refill the coffers, request cavalry, and prepare for a siege that can actually hold under pressure. Meanwhile, Syracuse hears Hermocrates at last. His blunt case—discipline over bluster, reform over blame—shrinks a muddled command, tightens training, and sends envoys to Corinth and Sparta to turn a local crisis into a panhellenic cause.The politi...
2026-01-2243 minCasting Through Ancient Greece92: Birth of the Argive LeagueHave you ever wondered how ancient empires managed the delicate dance of diplomacy and warfare? In this gripping episode, we unravel the complex strategies and political chess moves of the Peloponnesian War, spotlighting the pivotal period following 424 BC. Witness the dramatic rise and fall of Athens and Sparta as we dissect significant events like the Spartan defeats at Pylos and Sphacteria and Athens' bold military ventures. We also examine how setbacks at Megara and Delium fueled Sparta's resolve, leading to urgent peace negotiations. With a special focus on the cunning Spartan general Brasidas and his diplomatic ingenuity in Thrace...
2025-02-0339 minCasting Through Ancient GreeceTeaser: The Lull Before the Storm (Patreon)This is a teaser of the bonus episode, "The Lull Before the Storm" found over on Patreon.Unlock the secrets of ancient warfare as we unravel the events leading to the Battles of Plataea and Mycale, where Greek resilience clashed with Persian ambition. Discover how the Persian invasion under King Xerxes I, once an unstoppable force, met its match at the Battle of Salamis, altering the course of history. In the aftermath, experience the strategic dance between retreating Persian forces and a revitalized Greek alliance, led by the indomitable spirit of Sparta and Athens, as they grapple...
2024-12-0406 minCasting Through Ancient Greece91: The Peace of NiciasWelcome to another episode of Casting Through Ancient Greece! In this episode, we delve into one of the most pivotal yet precarious moments of the Peloponnesian War: the Peace of Nicias.After a decade of bitter conflict between Athens and Sparta, the year 421 BCE brought a glimmer of hope for peace. Named after the Athenian general and statesman who negotiated it, the Peace of Nicias was a formal attempt to halt hostilities. But was it truly a step toward reconciliation or merely a pause before the inevitable resumption of war?Join us as we explore:
2024-11-2241 minCasting Through Ancient GreeceTeaser: After Salamis (Patreon Bonus)This is a teaser of the bonus episode, "After Salamis" found over on Patreon.As we dissect the aftermath of one of history's pivotal naval battles, unravel the intricate web woven by Xerxes to obscure his intentions and navigate the treacherous waters of retreat. With insights from Herodotus, we illuminate the contrasting influences of Mardonius and Artemisia on the Persian king's next steps, each representing aggression and prudence, respectively. This episode promises to enrich your understanding of how ancient leaders balanced ambition with survival as the Greeks and Persians faced off in a saga that would forever...
2024-11-0105 minCasting Through Ancient Greece90: Clash at AmphipolisWitness the dramatic power play between two iconic city-states as we pull back the curtain on the strategic chess match that was the conflict over Amphipolis. Could the overconfidence of Athenian generals have been their downfall against the cunning maneuvers of Spartan general Brasidas? This episode promises insights into the mind games and tactical genius that unfolded, unraveling how Brasidas turned the tables on Athens with diplomacy and strategy, charting an unexpected course through the battlegrounds of Thrace. Brace yourself for revelations on how an initial Athenian advantage, following their victories at Pylos and Sphacteria, was compromised by a...
2024-10-2638 minCasting Through Ancient Greece89: The Tenuous Truce What if the triumphs of a powerful city could gradually slip away? In this episode of Casting Through Ancient Greece, we explore how Athens' dominance began to erode, not through immediate disaster, but through a series of missteps and lost opportunities. Once at the height of its military and political influence, Athens' advantage waned as strategic errors and unsuccessful campaigns chipped away at its position. From remarkable victories, such as the capture of over 120 Spartiates, to the costly setback at the Battle of Delium.As we unravel the political turmoil within Athens, the spotlight is on Thucydides’ tri...
2024-09-2341 minCasting Through Ancient GreeceTeaser: Opposing PlansThis is a teaser of the bonus episode, "Opposing Plans" found over on Patreon.Ever wondered how a narrow strait and a brilliant stratagem could turn the tide of history? Prepare to be captivated as we unravel the intricate strategies and pivotal moments leading up to and during the Battle of Salamis. Discover how Xerxes' hubris and determination to annihilate the Greek fleet led him to dismiss the sage advice of Artemisia, opting instead for a direct and ultimately disastrous naval confrontation. We'll break down the contrasting approaches of the Persian and Greek forces, delving into how...
2024-09-0305 minCasting Through Ancient Greece88: Brasidas' Thracian AdventureWhat if one man's daring ambition could change the entire course of a war? In our latest episode, we dive into the dramatic events of 424 BC during the Peloponnesian War, spotlighting the audacious Spartan general Brasidas. We’ll recount Athens' initial victories, like the fortification at Pylos and the shocking Spartan surrender at Sphacteria, and their setbacks, including the failed attempts to control Megara and Boeotia and the devastating loss at the Battle of Delium.Follow Brasidas as he embarks on his bold campaign northward through the dangerous landscapes of Thessaly, employing shrewd diplomacy to navigate his wa...
2024-08-2340 minCasting Through Ancient Greece87: Megara & DeliumHow 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 t...
2024-07-2640 minCasting Through Ancient Greece86: Shifting DynamicsEver 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...
2024-06-1941 minCasting Through Ancient Greece85: Surrender at SphacteriaThe 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 th...
2024-05-2643 minCasting Through Ancient Greece84: In Search of VictoryStep 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 th...
2024-04-1942 minCasting Through Ancient Greece83: Athens Sails WestEmbark 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...
2024-03-2241 minCasting Through Ancient GreeceEpisode Update: March 2024As 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 ev...
2024-03-0410 minCasting Through Ancient Greece82: Sicily RevisitedPrepare 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. W...
2024-02-1640 minCasting Through Ancient Greece81. The Terror of WarUncover 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 mo...
2024-02-0237 minCasting Through Ancient GreeceSeries update: close of 2023Embark 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 Pe...
2023-12-2805 minCasting Through Ancient Greece80: The Fate of MytileneAre 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...
2023-12-1541 minCasting Through Ancient GreeceTeaser: Cavalry Away (Patreon)Have you ever been curious about an unsolved mystery from the past? Well, I, Mark, invite you on a thrilling journey to uncover the secrets of the Battle of Marathon in this exclusive bonus feature on Patreon. We're shifting our focus to the Greeks' tactical approach on the battlefield and raising thought-provoking questions about the Persian cavalry, despite their presence in various historical accounts and works of art, they would failed to be mentioned during the unfolding battle at Marathon. Join me as we shed light on one of the most intriguing puzzles that has been lingering f...
2023-12-0406 minCasting Through Ancient GreeceGreek Philosophy with Jack VisnjicAre you ready to travel back in time and unravel the mysteries of ancient Greek philosophy with me, Mark Selleck, and our distinguished guest, Jack Visnjic, or as you might know him, Lantern Jack, is renowned for his profound knowledge in this philosophical domain. With a PhD in Ancient Philosophy from Princeton University, Jack brings an understanding that transcends time, illuminating the rich world of ancient Greek thinkers.Our journey will transport you to the birthplace of philosophy, navigating through the socio-political intricacies of that era that birthed philosophical thought. We'll explore the groundbreaking ideas of pre-Socratic...
2023-12-011h 30Casting Through Ancient Greece79: Victories of PhormioIn our return to the tumultuous third year of the war, the Chalcidice comes back into focus once more with renewed operations. The siege of Potidaea may have found resolution in the previous year, but with lingering hostility in the Chalcidice, Athens is forced to act. A fresh operation aims to secure Athens' base in Potidaea, a move designed to solidify their influence in the region. Little did they know, this venture would soon become an early lesson in the challenges of facing effective light troops.Simultaneously, back on the Greek mainland, the stage is set for...
2023-11-1738 minCasting Through Ancient GreeceInterview: Prof. Paul Cartledge - Sparta, A Remarkable PolisJoin us as we take you on an exploration of the fascinating world of the ancient Spartans. With Professor Paul Cartledge, a leading historian on the Spartans, as our guide, we will demystify the intriguing tales, values, and societal structure of this resilient warrior society. We'll wade through the Spartan mirage, unveiling the unique education system, political structure, and unrivalled military prowess that have shaped our understanding of this ancient civilization.We're not stopping at the surface; we whisk you into the depth of the Spartan world and the wider Greek realm. We'll probe into the Spartan...
2023-11-031h 42Casting Through Ancient Greece78: Potidaea, Plataea & TragedyEmbark on a riveting exploration of ancient Greece as we delve into the tumultuous events surrounding Pericles, a towering political figure who shaped the destiny of the city-state for nearly four decades. Follow the gripping narrative of Athens' struggle during the siege of Potidaea, where Pericles' efforts faced unexpected challenges, leading to intricate negotiations, strained resources, and even accusations from critics. Inside the city walls, witness the grim realities that unfolded, including the harrowing conditions that drove defenders to resort to cannibalism.As the historical drama unfolds into the third year of the war, the focus shifts...
2023-10-2039 minCasting Through Ancient GreeceInterview: On Wine-Dark Seas with Tad CrawfordTad Crawford's WebsiteBuy On Wine-Dark SeasExplore the literary world of Tad Crawford, acclaimed author of "A Floating Life: A Novel," "The Secret Life of Money," and numerous nonfiction books. With a National Endowment for the Arts award to his name, Crawford is also the founder and publisher of Allworth Press, residing in vibrant New York City.Today, our focus turns to Crawford's latest fictional masterpiece, "On Wine-Dark Seas," set against the backdrop of the epic cycle, including the iconic poems, the Iliad and the Odyssey. Uncover Crawford's unique interpretation of the...
2023-10-061h 00Casting Through Ancient Greece77: Athens Carries OnStep back in time once again to the second year of the Peloponnesian War and immerse yourself in the heart of ancient Athens, a city grappling with a devastating plague. But in this intriguing narrative, our journey takes a unique twist, leading us northward to the Chalcidice, where Athens has dispatched additional forces to besiege Potidaea. Along this expedition, we'll uncover the intricate tapestry of diplomacy in Thrace and Macedon.During this period, diplomatic endeavours were abundant, and it's worth noting that Sparta was actively engaged in these manoeuvres as well. Their strategic approach was two-fold: disrupting...
2023-09-2241 minCasting Through Ancient Greece76: The Plague of AthensIn the second year of the Peloponnesian War, the stage was set for a continuation of the struggle between Sparta and Athens. Archidamus, the Spartan commander, spearheaded an invasion of Attica with renewed fervour, while Athens harnessed its maritime might to direct a potent fleet towards a more expansive target on the Peloponnesian shores. Yet, amidst the echoes of warfare, an unforeseen and insidious adversary emerged – the plague.Originating from the Mediterranean's depths, the plague infiltrated Athens, exploiting its cosmopolitan trade networks. The city's bustling trade connections became both a source of prosperity and a conduit for di...
2023-09-0838 minCasting Through Ancient GreeceInterview: Pericles & Aspasia with Yvonne KorshakIn this fascinating interview, I have the privilege of sitting down with Prof. Yvonne Korshak, a distinguished historian and accomplished writer, to delve into the captivating world of her latest masterpiece, “Pericles and Aspasia.” This remarkable work of Historical fiction shines a brilliant light on the period preceding the Peloponnesian War in Athens. Instead of merely employing historical events as a distant backdrop, Prof. Korshak skillfully weaves them into the very fabric of her narrative.Through “Pericles and Aspasia,” Yvonne Korshak paints a vivid tapestry of unfolding historical events, interwoven with the intricacies of personal and intimate interact...
2023-08-251h 44Casting Through Ancient Greece75: Pericles' Funeral OrationThe end of the first campaigning season of the Peloponnesian war had now drawn to a close. Sparta had invaded Attica with their offensive strategy, while Athens resisted with the defensive policy employed by Pericles. Athens had also launched naval operations which would harass the Peloponnese and secure Athens defensive position even further. However, no resolution to the war would be reached as the year came to a close and the conflict would drag on.In Athens it was tradition during times of war that funeral processions were held to honour the fallen. This would allow the...
2023-08-1141 minCasting Through Ancient Greece74: Attica InvadedThe first year of the Peloponnesian war is now upon us. The first phase of this nearly 30-year struggle would be known as the Archidamian War, named after the Spartan king Archidamus, who had tried to prevent war developing in the first place. Archidamus being the only available Spartan king, the other not yet of age, would find himself leading the Peloponnesian forces as they invaded Attica in 431 BC.Sparta would launch a campaign where the main focus was on ravaging the Athenian country side to try and force the Athenians from out behind their walls. This...
2023-07-2841 minCasting Through Ancient Greece73: Causes for WarWe have now reached the outbreak of the Peloponnesian war, where we saw the hostilities between Thebes and Plataea marking a point where the war would begin. Both of these city states were allied to Sparta, in Thebes case and Athens on the Plataean side. Even though preparations for war were underway already, this action would see that both Sparta and Athens would be ready for conflict since this was a blatant breach of the 30 years peace.However, before moving forward with developments, we are going to take a step back to see if we can get...
2023-06-3039 min