Emperors of Rome

Rhiannon Evans, Caillan Davenport, Matt Smith and special guest William Dalrymple share items of Roman interest! You will hear: - A phoenix in the forum - The unknown Queens of Rome - The Roman perception of elephants - Trade between India and Rome - The low bar of Roman insults - The false female centurion - What Emperors called themselves - An accurate population of Pompeii - The false Theodosius - Sallust and ethnic etymology in North Africa Episode CCL (250) Guests: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University) Professor Caillan Davenport (Centre for Classical Studies, Australian National University)) William Dalrymple (Esteemed author and host of Empire podcast)

Transcribed - Published: 9 December 2025

Viriathus was a Lusitanian leader who rose from humble beginnings to become one of Rome’s most formidable enemies. A skilled tactician and master of guerrilla warfare, he led his people in resistance against Roman expansion in Hispania during the second century BCE. Celebrated for his honour and leadership — even by the Romans who fought him — Viriathus’s story is one of resilience, betrayal, and the enduring struggle for freedom against empire. Episode CCXLIX (249) Guest: Dr Christopher Gribbin (Adjunct Lecturer, Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

Transcribed - Published: 29 October 2025

Arria, and her daughter of the same name, were celebrated in Roman literature for their virtues, piety, and devotion to family. Remembered above all for their willingness to embrace self-sacrifice, their lives and deaths became exemplars of courage and duty, cited by writers like Pliny and Martial as models of Roman virtue. Episode CCXLVIII (248) Guest: Assoc. Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classic and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

Transcribed - Published: 19 September 2025

Being the daughter of Cato and wife of Brutus came with certain expectations from the ancient world. Embody her father’s principles, be a fine, upstanding Roman lady, and put Rome first above all other things. Porcia did this, and was admired for her disposition. Episode CCXLVII (247) Guest: Assoc. Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classic and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

Transcribed - Published: 30 August 2025

In times of antiquity, alongside the Via Appia, stood the Laudatio Turiae, a funerary inscription praising the life of an exceptional Roman woman. While we aren’t sure of her actual identity her husband was clearly fond to her, and wanted everyone approaching Rome to know it. Episode CCXLVI (246) Guest: Assoc. Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classic and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

Transcribed - Published: 22 August 2025

When Nero took his own life in 68CE it was the end of an era for Rome. The Julio-Claudians had ruled for close to 100 years, and with the end of the dynasty there was confusion, civil war, and an outpouring of grief. Some would exploit this confusion and claim to be the still alive Emperor Nero, with the intention of retaking his empire. Episode CCXLV (245) Guest: Assistant Professor Zachary Herz (Legal Historian, Department of Classics, University of Colorado Boulder).

Transcribed - Published: 31 July 2025

Plague getting your people down? Suffering from a mysterious ailment? Perhaps a festival of Apollo is what you need. A simple festival with games, plays and feastings could be enough to sway Apollo in your favour. Or at least, distract your city for a while. Episode CCXLIV (244) Guest: Assoc. Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classic and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

Transcribed - Published: 14 July 2025

After the death of Crassus his powerful name, his fortune, and his family’s honour survived. In this episode we’ll trace the life of the Crassi yet to come, and how the family comes together with an old rival. Episode CCXLIII (243) Part V of Crassus Guest: Assoc. Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classic and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

Transcribed - Published: 26 June 2025

Crassus had power, he had money, but he still felt something was missing. With an army and a province in the east, he sets off to win the glory he had always been denied Perhaps it lay in Parthia. Episode CCXLII (242) Part IV of Crassus Guest: Assoc. Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classic and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

Transcribed - Published: 29 May 2025

As Crassus gathered more power and wealth his success was aided by two allies. One, Julius Caesar, had received financial aid from Crassus for many years. The other, Pompeius Magnus, was at the best of times a bitter rival. Together they formed the triumvirate - more powerful together than apart. Episode CCXLI (241) Part III of Crassus Guest: Assoc. Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classic and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

Transcribed - Published: 22 May 2025

In the tales of Hollywood Crassus will always be the antagonist to the slave hero Spartacus, but is that how would he see himself? A war against slaves is something that no self respecting Roman would like to be pushed into. And yet here we are. Episode CCXL (240) Part II of Crassus Guest: Assoc. Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classic and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

Transcribed - Published: 24 April 2025

Marcus Licinius Crassus was an influential politician in the late Roman republic, famous for the wealth he accrued and the power that he held. An ally of Caesar and a rival of Pompey, he rose to prominence during the social wars, but would never get the military glory he believed was his owed. Episode CCXXXIX (239) Part I of Crassus Guest: Assoc. Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classic and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

Transcribed - Published: 1 April 2025

Pompeii has been excavated for hundreds of years, and in that time techniques, practices and philosophies have changed. We’re now finding out a lot more about the city and the people who lived there, and there’s still more to find out. The When in Rome podcast is now fundraising for an upcoming series 8. Please give your support. Guest: Dr Sophie Hay (Archaeologist, Archaeological Park of Pompeii) Professor Steven Ellis (Classics, University of Cincinnati)

Transcribed - Published: 17 March 2025

The simple act of dinner took on a new dimension for the Emperors. In an place where every meal could be a performance, an Emperor used the chance to reward and impress, intimidate and strike fear, and sometimes all at once. Having dinner with the Emperor was always a great honour, but sometimes you were risking your life. Episode CCXXXVIII (238) Guest: Professor Mary Beard (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

Transcribed - Published: 24 February 2025

For the Romans the simple act of dinner was so much more than a meal. It was an opportunity to socialise and do business, to see and be seen, and in some cases just to show off. Like everything it is steeped in protocol and tradition, but ultimately it emphasised spending time with others - as every good meal should. Episode CCXXXVII (237) Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

Transcribed - Published: 18 February 2025

To celebrate the 10th year of the Emperors of Rome podcast, Rhiannon Evans and Matt Smith convened a screening of the epic movie Gladiator starring Russell Crowe, preceded by a live podcast recording the history and basis of the character Commodus performed by Joaquin Phoenix. Recorded on the 19th October 2024 at the Thornbury Picture House, Melbourne.

Transcribed - Published: 10 January 2025

The Roman festival of Faunalia Rustica was celebrated in rural areas in honour of the god Faunus, a god who according to epic poetry was the King of the Latins, but to many needed appeasement for country living. Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

Transcribed - Published: 17 December 2024

Diocletian and Maximian must be doing something right - keeping the borders of Rome safe, and ruling the Empire in harmony. They even have a catch-up in Milan, worthy of a panegyric. Things would be perfect, if it wasn’t for the revolt of Carausius in Gaul and Britain, who doesn’t want to rule Rome, he just wants to be included in the party. Part II of Diocletian Guest: Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University)

Transcribed - Published: 6 December 2024

The man who would be the Emperor Diocletian was of unremarkable origins. Quick to recognise the challenges of Rome, he moved to set it up as a franchise opportunity. This worked when nothing else did, and to many he was the most successful Roman emperor in an age. Just don’t ask the Christians… Part I of Diocletian Guest: Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University)

Transcribed - Published: 20 November 2024

As the wild and crazy experiment of the 3rd century winds to a conclusion, a man named Carus steps into the purple, with an imperial dynasty ready to go. But Rome has grown unwieldy. Challenged by enemies from beyond and within, it will take quite a leader to hold the empire together. Guest: Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University)

Transcribed - Published: 8 November 2024

Probus had a fairly long reign for this time in the history of the Empire. Keeping the barbarians in check is one thing, seeing off usurpers is another, but just don’t ask too much of the military - they don’t like getting their hands dirty. Guest: Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University)

Transcribed - Published: 23 October 2024

We now return to the late third century, where the Emperor Aurelian has finally reunited the Roman empire and been murdered for the trouble, and the senate in Rome, waning in its influence, makes a final flex of power. Tickets are now on sale for our special 10th anniversary live screening of the movie Gladiator! 19th October at the Thornbury Picture House in Melbourne. Guest: Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University)

Transcribed - Published: 25 September 2024

The Bona Dea was a goddess of Rome, whose celebrations were the secret domain of elite women. To our male Roman sources they were mysterious and magical, that is until Clodius Pulcher decided he would gate crash. Tickets are now on sale for our special 10th anniversary live screening of the movie Gladiator! 19th October at the Thornbury Picture House in Melbourne. Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

Transcribed - Published: 11 September 2024

Caesar was a man who was careful of his image, and in his accounts of the Gallic Wars he records his skill and competence on the battle field. He also made a point of giving himself a credible nemesis, with the barbarian Vercingetorix taking the centre stage. Recorded live in Albury at the Albury LibraryMuseum on 24th June, 2024. Guests: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University)

Transcribed - Published: 16 August 2024

Throughout our examination of the Catiline conspiracy we have avoided the urge to make comparisons between the events in Ancient Rome and modern day politics. In this episode we resist no more. Part VIII of The Catiline Conspiracy Guests: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University) Professor Nick Bisley (Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, La Trobe University)

Transcribed - Published: 31 July 2024

Catiline’s name is often used as a byword for villainy, and over the years has been told and retold by different authors with different agendas. To some he is a villain, a traitor to the state. To others he’s a hero, standing up for the little guy. Part VII of The Catiline Conspiracy Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University).

Transcribed - Published: 6 July 2024

Cicero may have won the battle against Catiline but he wouldn’t win the war. With too many enemies in the senate he makes a tactical retreat, leaving his beloved Rome for the safety of the coast of Greece. Part VI of The Catiline Conspiracy Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University).

Transcribed - Published: 6 June 2024

Cicero may have won the battle against Catiline but he wouldn’t win the war. With too many enemies in the senate he makes a tactical retreat, leaving his beloved Rome for the safety of the coast of Greece. Part VI of The Catiline Conspiracy Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University).

Transcribed - Published: 6 June 2024

Catiline and Cicero now wage very different wars. Cicero on the floor of the senate, arguing for the protection of the legacy of Rome. Catiline on the battlefield, fighting with a bravery that would make any hero proud. Part V of The Catiline Conspiracy Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University).

Transcribed - Published: 10 May 2024

Catiline and Cicero now wage very different wars. Cicero on the floor of the senate, arguing for the protection of the legacy of Rome. Catiline on the battlefield, fighting with a bravery that would make any hero proud. Part V of The Catiline Conspiracy Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University).

Transcribed - Published: 10 May 2024

Catiline and Cicero draw their lines of battle in the senate, with Catiline claiming to represent the will of the wretched and destitute. But his attacks on Cicero, directly or indirectly, earn him many enemies, and he is forced to flee the city of Rome. Part IV of The Catiline Conspiracy Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University).

Transcribed - Published: 26 April 2024

Catiline attempted to become consul of Rome more than once, and its a position he believes he deserves. When he fails in his efforts and Cicero is elected he attempts to force the issue, conspiring with all those who have a grudge against the state. Part III of The Catiline Conspiracy Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University).

Transcribed - Published: 11 April 2024

Catiline doesn't have the best reputation in Rome, and in the years after his failed conspiracy he has been implicated in every failed plot of that time. Was he involved in them? Possibly. Part II of The Catiline Conspiracy Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University).

Transcribed - Published: 28 March 2024

Catiline is a notorious figure of the Roman republic, a longtime rival of Cicero who, after repeated attempts at the consulship decided to push the matter by force. In this episode we look at his character, his role in the social wars of Rome and his early attempts at office. Part I of The Catiline Conspiracy Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University).

Transcribed - Published: 15 March 2024

Hispala Faecena was instrumental in bringing the cult of Bacchus to the attention of Roman authorities, ending a conspiracy that was threatening lives and the rule of law. Guest: Dr Emma Southon (Author of 'A History of the Roman Empire in 21 Women') Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University).

Transcribed - Published: 21 February 2024

Martial was a Roman poet primarily writing during the reign of Domitian, and while primarily known for his commentary on Roman life, his takedowns, his insults and vulgarity, in this episode we look at how he toes the careful line of praising the Emperor. Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University).

Transcribed - Published: 8 February 2024

Yes, it’s that festive time of year again, when you gather all ye merry people with sore throats, stand around a statue with its mouth covered, and keep the sacred name of Rome safe. Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University).

Transcribed - Published: 15 December 2023

A dire warning from the spirit of Africa! A Haunting in Athens! And someone cuts the hair of Pliny's freedman. Pliny the Younger presents a Roman Haunting in Three Parts. Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University).

Transcribed - Published: 27 October 2023

Aurelian is known as a conqueror, a general and a restorer, and his reputation is based on those achievements. But in his short rule of five years, he was also an Emperor, and made efforts to leave his mark on Rome. Part IV of 'Aurelian' Guest: Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University).

Transcribed - Published: 17 September 2023

Aurelian has seen off vandals, goths, and conquered the forces of Zenobia to reclaim the east. But to the west lies the Gallic Empire, once firm territory of Rome, awaiting his attention. Part III of 'Aurelian' Guest: Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University).

Transcribed - Published: 25 August 2023

The weakness of Rome was the strength of Palmyra, and the east came to be be ruled by the Queen Zenobia. Cultured and ambitious, her empire stretched from Egypt to Turkey, which made her a formidable challenge for Aurelian. Part II of 'Aurelian' Guest: Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University).

Transcribed - Published: 4 August 2023

Aurelian became Emperor of a fractured empire. To the west the Gallic Empire had been established ten years earlier, the eastern provinces were now controlled by Zenobia, and there were threats from the vandals in the North. To unite an empire, this will be his first priority. Part I of ‘Aurelian’ Guest: Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University).

Transcribed - Published: 14 July 2023

The treacherous death of Gallienus saw the rise of a man of war. Claudius Gothicus definitely earned his title, but with a reign of only two years perhaps he made the right kind of impact without the time to leave a bad impression. For an emperor in the third century that was more than enough, and he left an example for all who followed after. Guest: Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University).

Transcribed - Published: 23 June 2023

What Latin words and concepts for time are still with us today? Guest: Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans (Classics and Ancient History, La Trobe University).

Transcribed - Published: 8 June 2023

While much of the Roman Empire was lost during the rule of Gallienus, We don't really know how much of that is his fault, or really get a sense of his reign. Was he responsible for the loss of territory, or was he just a victim of the time? Part IV of 'Gallienus' Guest: Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University). Support production of a new series of the When in Rome podcast on Kickstarter.

Transcribed - Published: 12 May 2023

As the Roman empire lost the western provinces something very different was happening in the east. Odaenathus remained on the side of Rome, but assumed the title of King, building his influence throughout the region, to the point where it became a problem for Gallienus. Part III of 'Gallienus' Guest: Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University). Support production of a new series of the When in Rome podcast on Kickstarter.

Transcribed - Published: 28 April 2023

A challenge to the imperial authority was hardly unusual in the third century, but for whatever reason, Postumus decides to do things differently. Rather than marching an army on Rome he shaves off the western provinces, declaring Gaul, Germania, Hispania and Britannia the independent, but still very Roman, Gallic Empire. Part II of 'Gallienus' Guest: Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University).

Transcribed - Published: 29 March 2023

When the Emperor Valerian was captured by the enemy what the empire needed was a trusted, capable, firm set of hands to take on the imperial mantle. In retrospect, that probably wasn’t his son Gallienus. For the next eight years Gallienus would rule as sole emperor and proceed to lose two thirds of the empire, leaving Rome at its weakest position in centuries. Part I of 'Gallienus' Guest: Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University).

Transcribed - Published: 17 March 2023

Cleopatra Selene was the daughter of Cleopatra and Mark Antony, and was destined for greatness. Following the death of her parents she became a prisoner of Rome, survived into adulthood, and became a queen of the ancient world. Dr Draycott is the author of ''Cleopatra’s Daughter: Egyptian Princess, Roman Prisoner, African Queen'. Guest: Dr Jane Draycott (Classics, University of Glascow)

Transcribed - Published: 3 March 2023

Part of the making of Octavian was the victories he had early in his career. He defeated his rivals, conquered territory, and united the senate behind him whether they liked it or not. One of those territories was Illyria, in which he conducted campaigns during the quiet years before his final battles against Egypt and Antony. It’s perhaps in Illyria that we see Octavian display his greatest acts of bravery, if not ability. Guest: Dr Christopher Gribbin (Adjunct Lecturer, La Trobe University)

Transcribed - Published: 3 February 2023