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The Reading Party Podcast

The Reading Party Podcast

By: Megan Lewis and Lexie Henning
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About this listen

Are you obsessed with mythology and the ancient world? Does seeing Medusa in movies make you smile? Do you tell yourself “Just one more page!” at 3am when reading a novel based on an ancient myth? Do you drink tea (or any hot beverage of choice)? Then your friendly neighborhood Ancient Historians have got you covered.



Join Megan and Lexie (with tea and snacks of course!) as they read and watch books, films, and T.V. shows set in the ancient world and dissect every aspect of them. This dynamic duo will try to cover everything from popular films, like the Brad Pitt Troy, to up and coming books like Wrath Goddess Sing. Whether you’ve read them, seen them, or never even heard of them, join us every week as we spill the tea on a ton of ancient stories!

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2025 Megan Lewis and Lexie Henning World
Episodes
  • Ben-Hur (2016)

    Ben-Hur (2016)
    Jan 28 2025

    In this final episode of season 3 of The Reading Party Podcast, Megan and Lexie are discussing the 2016 film “Ben-Hur”. They share their thoughts on the film’s historical accuracy, the anachronisms in costume and set design, and the unexpected presence of Jesus in the narrative. From the dramatic chariot race to the film's ultimate message of forgiveness and redemption, they analyze what worked and what didn't in this modern retelling of a classic tale.


    The film "Ben-Hur" (2016) attempts to weave together historical and biblical narratives, creating a complex tapestry that can both engage and frustrate viewers. The story centers on Judah Ben-Hur, a Jewish man living in Roman-occupied Judea, and his adoptive brother Masala, who becomes a Roman officer. This setup inherently invites a blend of historical context and biblical themes, particularly with the inclusion of Jesus as a character.


    Join Megan and Lexie as they navigate their way through historical inaccuracies, a confusing and frustrating amount of biblical tropes, and a welcome appearance of the wonderful Morgan Freeman.



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    51 mins
  • Pompeii (2014)

    Pompeii (2014)
    Jan 21 2025

    In this episode of The Reading Party, Megan and Lexie are joined by Dr. Victoria Austen to dive into the 2014 action-adventure film "Pompeii," starring Kit Harington. Join them as they explore the film's unique blend of romance, action, and historical disaster, all set against the backdrop of the infamous volcanic eruption.


    Dr. Victoria Austen, an expert in the classics, shares her insights on Roman gardens, social history, and the reception of the ancient world in modern media. We discuss everything from the film's portrayal of Roman identity to the accuracy of its volcanic eruption depiction. Expect a lively discussion filled with humor, critical analysis, and plenty of questions about the social dynamics at play in the film. Whether you're a fan of ancient history or just curious about how Hollywood interprets it, this episode is sure to entertain and inform!


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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • The Eagle of the Ninth

    The Eagle of the Ninth
    Jan 14 2025
    In this episode of the Reading Party Podcast, hosts Megan and Lexie dive into the rich narrative of "Eagle of the Ninth" by Rosemary Sutcliffe. Released in 1954, this children's novel explores the journey of Marcus, a Roman soldier, as he navigates life in Britain after being injured and discharged from the army. The hosts discuss their experience of reading it after watching the film adaptation, "The Eagle," starring Channing Tatum, and share their initial impressions of the book, highlighting its engaging plot and historical context. Tune in for a lively discussion filled with insights, reflections, and of course, plenty of tea!

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    53 mins

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