Condensed Histories bridges the gap between history and popular culture. In each episode of Condensed Histories our host, Jem Duducu, takes an item of popular culture and looks under the surface to find real history hiding inside, with fascinating facts and stories about history spanning all eras, and also about the development of the piece pop-culture itself, appealing to history lover and enthusiasts of movies, games and music alike!
From shows on Netflix, Prime or Disney Plus, to the lastest blockbuster films, and even video games, songs, board games and food, Jem shows us how much history is lurking in our everyday entertainment.
Wandavision, The Dig, Warhammer, Queen’s Gambit, Assassin’s Creed, Jojo Rabbit, Cobra Kai, The Lord of the Rings and Monopoly are among the subjects in which which Jem has so far discovered a surprising amount of history!
Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week is all about Jem's new book, 'The Devil's Horsemen: A Thousand Years of Conquest by Eurasian Steppe Horse Archers'. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....
Jem looks into the Olmec Empire! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jem talks about Remakes, and how old they really are! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On this week's episode Jem is talking about board games, and just how far back in time they go! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this exciting episode of Condensed History, host Jem Duducu interviews Steve Foot from MegaBeast Games and Claire Marr, a DPhil student from Oxford University, about their new dinosaur board game called 'MegaBeast' launching on Kickstarter. The conversation highlights the game's scientific foundations, the collaboration between game design and paleontology, and interesting debates on dinosaur behavior and evidence. They also delve into the game's mechanics and inspirations, and answer fascina...
In this episode of Condensed Histories, host Jem Duducu explores the long and fascinating history of wrestling, a sport that dates back thousands of years and has evolved into a major element of modern pop culture. From ancient cave paintings to the extravagant spectacle of WWE, learn how wrestling has shaped and been shaped by various cultures, including Greek, British, and Mexican traditions. Jem also delves into wrestling's unique influence on entertainment, its iconic characters, and its end...
Join host Jem Duducu on Condensed Histories as he delves into Amor Towles' novel and its intriguing adaptation 'A Gentleman in Moscow.' Discover the connections to the Russian Revolution, the state of streaming entertainment, and the historical context, all inspired by a request from a listener. Explore the novel's unique premise, its TV adaptation starring Ewan McGregor, and comparisons to Soviet cinema, including the iconic 'Battleship Potemkin.' Learn about historical storytelling, the role o...
In this episode of Condensed Histories, host Jem Duducu explores the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, providing a comprehensive summary of events since the full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022. Jem delves into the complex history dating back to the initial invasion in 2014, examines the current state of frontline warfare, and highlights significant developments such as the use of drone technology, international involvement, and geopolitical implications. This episode offers an in...
In this episode of Condensed Histories, Jem delves into the history and cultural impact of the beloved video game series Sid Meier's Civilization. He discusses the evolution of the game from its inception in 1991 to the latest installment, Civilization VI, and the anticipated Civilization VII. He explores gameplay mechanics, strategies, and the educational value of the series, highlighting how it brings world history to life by allowing players to lead various civilizations from antiquity to mod...
Join Jem in this episode of Condensed History as he delves into the historical layers underpinning the video game 'Kingdom Come Deliverance 2'. Jem explores the game's unique approach to medieval role-playing, contrasting it with other popular RPGs like Skyrim and The Witcher, and examines how Kingdom Come Deliverance sets itself apart with its commitment to historical accuracy and realism. From discussing the ethos of video games to recounting fascinating historical tales from the medieval king...
In this episode of Condensed Histories, Jem DuDucu dives deep into the world of Warhammer to discuss its intersection with contemporary culture wars. Jem addresses the challenges and complications faced by large organizations like Games Workshop, as they navigate sensitive issues of inclusivity and representation in their products. From the backlash against diverse depictions in Warhammer to the controversy over female Custodians, and comparisons with other pop culture phenomena like Disney's Th...
In this episode of Condensed Histories, host Jem Duducu delves into Coldplay's 2008 hit 'Viva La Vida' and explores the connections between modern British rock music and historical events, particularly the French Revolution. Discussing Coldplay's rise to fame, the band's unique sound, and the historical themes integrated into their music, Jem not only offers insights into the evolution of the band but also ties it to significant historical revolutions, including insights on the American Revoluti...
Jem looks into Netflix documentary 'Churchill at War', where they do Churchill injustice, and the biggest mark against Churchill that the documentary doesn't mention. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....
Jem looks into some of the history behind the new series of SAS Rogue Heroes, and compares it to the film Six Triple Eight. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....
Jem looks at the animated film 'The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim', and the question of protecting copyright! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....
Jem concludes his epic journey through a whole year of movies! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jem continues his journey through a whole year of movies! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jem begins his journey through an entire year of movies! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jem looks into the film The Bicycle Theif and the world of Rubble Movies. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Following a suggestion from the Condesed Histories Podcast Facebook Group, Jem takes a look into the history surrounding Bruce Lee! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....
Jem looks into Soviet Cinema and Alexander Nevsky. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jem interviews John Bleasdale, author of 'The Magic Hours The Films and Hidden Life of Terence Malick' about the subject of the book, Terence Malick himself! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....
Jem looks into the decisive subject of Prequels, including Better Call Saul and Star Wars! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jem takes a look into the history of bomb disposal. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jem looks at Gladiator 2! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jem looks into Russian Radiation through three pieces of popular culture. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jem looks at the Greatest Action Hero... in real life! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jem concludes his two-part episode on Barry Lyndon! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jem kicks off a two-part episode on Barry Lyndon! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jem talks about The Terminator, and about Sci-Fi affecting the real world! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/condensed-histories . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
