In this episode of That's Ancient History Jean talks to fellow PhD student Stan Christoforou about his research on combat trauma in 5th century BC Greece. His research involves dealing with modern psychology and to what extent it can be used to inform our understanding of antiquity, as well as looking at ancient mythological Greek heroes and the burden of war upon their lives. Stan is also currently collecting information for Classics After the Classroom, a project intended to promote classics in state schools so don't forget to check out @ClassicsATC on twitter to learn more. Books mentioned in this episode: Achilles in Vietnam by Jonathan Shay Euripides' Ajax Euripides' Heracles Aeschylus' Oresteia

In this episode Jean is joined by Madeline Miller, author of the award-winning Song of Achilles to discuss her latest book Circe as well as the process of retelling ancient myths in modern fiction. The topics discussed include the origins of Madeline Miller's passion for ancient history and mythology, the decisions that need to be made when writing a myth retelling and what themes from Circe's story resonate with the 21st audience. Books Mentioned: Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller Circe by Madeline Miller Homer's Odyssey translated by Emily Wilson Ovid's Metamorphosis Titus Andronicus by William Shakespeare Troilus and Cressida by William Shakespeare

In the first episode of season one Jean is joined by fellow classics graduate Harriet, who now works in charities, to chat about how they both discovered ancient history and mythology and developed a passion for the topics. Both were educated at comprehensive state schools in Scotland and had no formal education in classics prior to university so relied on pop culture, television documentaries and encouraging family members to introduce them to antiquity. Hopefully, their experiences will help you discover a passion for the topic too! Books & Shows Mentioned: Asterix the Gaul Plebs Time Team The Penelopiad by Margaret Atwood Homer's Odyssey Suetonius' Lives of the Caesars The Secret History by Donna Tartt

That's Ancient History Introduction by Jean Menzies