September 21, 2025
The Rest Is History | 602. Greek Myths: Zeus, King of the Gods (Part 1)
What are the mythic origins of Zeus, King of the Olympians, and the other Greek gods? From what period did the earliest of the Greek myths derive? Who was Hesiod - alongside Homer, the greatest of the Greek poets, and the father of European literature - who first recorded Zeus’ story? When was the golden age of Greek myth? Who were the Titans, and why were they consigned to the fiery pit of Tartarus? Did different regions of Greece have different interpretations of the gods, and do these myths express something particular about ancient Greek culture? And, did people really believe in these famous stories of terrible gods, daring heroes, and great wars? Join Tom and Dominic as they plunge into the glorious, technicolour world of the Greek myths, starting with the tumultuous early life of Cronos, his son Zeus, the war between the gods and the Titans, and some of the most famous Greek heroes of all time - from Perseus to Hercules. Producer: Theo Young-Smith Assistant Producer: Tabby Syrett + Aaliyah Akude Video Producer: Jack Meek Executive Producers: Jack Davenport + Tony Pastor
Tom Holland, Dominic Sandbrook, Theo Young-Smith, Tabby Syrett, Aaliyah Akude, Jack Meek, Jack Davenport, Tony Pastor