[Back to School] E02⏐The extraordinary academ...

Have you ever heard of abraxas? These are talismans in the shape of oblong shields, covered with motifs inspired by Egyptian, Greek, and Roman mythology, and engraved with Kabbalistic prayers, Hebrew words, and magical symbols. One could easily believe that these strange jewelry ...  Show more

“It was in Megara, a suburb of Carthage, in the gardens of Hamilcar…”This is the opening sentence of Salammbô, Flaubert’s great historical novel, which has become a cult classic. Just like its heroine … the Carthaginian princess with dazzling finery and a tragic destiny.Salammbô ...  Show more

This episode is something of an ode to jewels, goldsmithing and design – but also the human urge to collect. We’ll visit the imposing and eccentric Geneva home that inspires Maison Belmont; chat to the founder of jewellery brand Annoushka about the symbolism and personal history ...  Show more

Weapons capable of thought, speech and autonomous action appear throughout multiple myths and legends. In this classic episode of Stuff to Blow Your Mind, Robert and Joe explore some stand-out examples and discuss what it all might mean. (originally published 7/29/2021)See omnyst ...  Show more

In this episode of STBYM’s The Artifact, Robert discusses an ancient Chinese sword noted for its unusual sharpness and resistance to tarnish... Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. 

What is the history of the sword? What are they made from and what is an alloy? Special guest Ariel Kasten joins the show to talk about pointy things.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.