In this special episode of KES Publica, we interview Professor Denis Feeney about Roman Religion. Professor Feeney is a renowned Classicist and a global staple of university reading lists. He is also Mr Feeney's father! He is currently Professor Emeritus at Princeton, and has worked in top global institutions throughout his career. We get his thoughts on what was distinctive about Roman religion, starting with the small city state in Latium and ending with the mediterranean empire facing the baffling phenomenon of early Christianity. A must-listen for all our A Level students, and a fascinating insight into the top level of classical scholarship for everyone.

Mr Feeney and Mr Burns finally get to the end of their katabasis. The crescendo of Book VI is reached! Not to be missed if you're studying the Aeneid in any subject.

Most people think they know about Sparta: shining and brave defenders of Greek liberty against the ranks of despotism; the heroic self-sacrificing defenders of Thermopylae, with noble bearing and massive muscles. In this episode Mr Burns contends that this is all, utterly wrong (apart from possibly the muscles). The Spartans were utterly detestable ethnic supremacists who built a society of brutality, exploitation, and violence. Mr Feeney takes a more nuanced position. Who is right? Have a listen to make up your own minds.