In this climactic finale to our first season, we march with Alexander the Great and his trusted cavalry commander, Menander, into the heart of the Persian Empire for the Battle of Gaugamela. 

Experience the strategic brilliance of Alexander's tactics, and the palpable tension and chaos of the battlefield as we dive deep into the thick of the fight. 

From scythed chariots to massive cavalry engagements and a fleeing Emperor Darius, we relive the decisive confrontation that would forever alter the course of history. 

Tune in to feel the adrenaline, the fear, the triumph, and ultimately, the heavy toll of this legendary battle. Journey with us as we explore how these grand historical events shaped not only the lives of men like Menander but the trajectory of Western civilization itself. 

And stay tuned for the next season where we will join Julius Caesar's campaign in Gaul from the perspective of a hardy centurion, Publius Sextius Baculus

Support the show

"In this thrilling third instalment of Humdrum History's exploration into the life and times of Alexander the Great, we march onwards with our character Menander, following Alexander deep into Persian territory, to the site of the historic Battle of Gaugamela in 331 BCE. 

Witness the epic confrontation, where scythed chariots clashed with disciplined phalanxes, vast cavalry engagements roared across the plains, and the fate of an emperor hung in the balance. 

Journey with us as we dissect the tactics, appreciate the audacity, and experience the blood and sand of Gaugamela as never before. Remember, while we bring you a story based on primary sources, this episode is meant to be historically faithful, not perfectly accurate. 

Our aim? To bring the ancient past to life, in all its vibrant chaos and glory."

Support the show

Journey through the aftermath of the Battle of Thebes and stride into the Persian Empire with Alexander the Great and our steadfast cavalry commander, Menander. Episode two of Humdrum History takes you to the frontlines of the momentous Battle of the Granicus.

This pivotal clash of soldiers and cultures marked the first major confrontation between Alexander's forces and the mighty Persian Empire, setting the stage for a titanic struggle that would define the course of history. From the adrenaline-fueled chaos of battle to the intimate fears and hopes of Menander, we explore the raw reality of ancient warfare.

Please note that this episode delves into the visceral details of combat, capturing the grim reality of spears, blood, and the tumultuous noise that engulfed the battlefield. Listener discretion is advised.

While our narrative is built upon primary sources and historical accounts, it aims for historical fidelity rather than perfect accuracy, painting a vivid picture to make you not just understand history, but feel it. Join us as we immerse ourselves in a time when the fate of two great cultures hung in the balance.

Support the show

Embark on a riveting journey through the eyes of a cavalry commander serving under Alexander the Great. This first episode of Humdrum History delves deep into the world-shattering campaigns of a young, audacious commander as he led his forces across vast expanses and against formidable foes. 

From the dusty field of Gaugamela to the mysterious lands of India, discover the daily trials, victories, and camaraderie of the Hellenic League army. Experience the exhilaration, the uncertainty, and the reality of life in the ranks - as well as the final act of defiance, when Alexander's weary men said "enough". 

The Battle of Thebes was a significant conflict early in the campaign of Alexander the Great. After ascending to the throne of Macedonia in 336 BC following the assassination of his father, Philip II, Alexander sought to solidify his control over the Hellenic League, a confederation of Greek city-states established by Philip.

News of Philip's death had sparked a series of rebellions among these city-states. Thebes, emboldened by what they saw as an opportunity to throw off Macedonian hegemony, led one of the most significant of these revolts. Alexander, recognizing the challenge this posed to his rule, acted swiftly and decisively.

Join us to uncover what life was truly like for a soldier in Alexander's grand campaign.

Support the show