Talks & Workshops
Mary Beard: More Secret Histories of Ancient Rome
Historian Mary Beard looks beyond emperors and battles at the lives left out of history books, and draws links between Roman politics and today. Audience questions are welcome. For history enthusiasts and curious newcomers.
Key information
- When
- Wednesday, 28 October 2026 at 7:30pm – 10pm
- Where
- The Great HallStocker Road, EX4 4PYMore at this venueMap

About this event
Renowned historian Mary Beard returns to the stage after her sold-out 2025 tour, stepping once more into the world of Ancient Rome—a civilisation whose stories still shape the way we see ourselves today.
In this captivating live event, Mary takes you beyond the well-worn paths of emperors and battles, revealing the rich and complex lives of those often left out of the history books. She rewrites popular narratives, casting fresh light on what we think we know.
But this isn’t just about the past, Mary draws thought-provoking connections between Roman politics and today’s world. What can we learn from the history of Rome, how might it resonate with the political landscapes we navigate today? Why does Rome still matter?
Don’t miss the chance to ask your own questions as Mary unpacks the history of the Roman, its brilliance and its horror.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this evening promises to be a spectacular journey through time, leaving you with fresh insights into both ancient and modern worlds.