Mary Beard and Charlotte Higgins on how antiquity shapes the modern world (Part One)

The classical world remains a vital, evolving lens for understanding contemporary politics, culture, and power structures. By moving beyond traditional historical narratives, this exploration of antiquity emphasizes the complexity of ancient societies, particularly regarding Athenian democracy and the construction of imperial leadership. Rather than treating the past as a static, revered relic, the discussion highlights how ancient history—including literature, architecture, and political rhetoric—is constantly reinterpreted to address modern challenges. Classicist Mary Beard and cultural writer Charlotte Higgins examine these themes through their new podcast, *Instant Classics*, which prioritizes intellectual dialogue over rote facts. They argue that a fresh perspective on the classics challenges established academic boundaries and demonstrates how ancient structures of power, such as those found in Roman history, continue to shape modern political discourse and self-perception.