Ep 13. Greeks

In season 7, episode 13 of QI, the focus is on the ancient Greeks and their contributions to society. Host Stephen Fry is joined by panelists Alan Davies, Dara O'Briain, Sue Perkins, and Ross Noble to explore the fascinating world of Greek mythology, history, and culture.

The episode begins with a discussion on the Greek gods and goddesses, including their quirky personalities and bizarre behavior. The panelists explore the idea that the Greeks created their gods in their own image, with all their flaws and foibles. They also explore the darker side of Greek mythology, including tales of violence, betrayal, and revenge.

Moving on from mythology, the panelists dive into the world of Greek philosophy. They discuss famous philosophers such as Aristotle, Plato, and Socrates, and the impact their ideas had on Western society. The panelists debate the merits of different philosophical theories and explore how they have influenced modern thought.

One of the most interesting segments of the episode is a discussion on ancient Greek medicine. The Greeks were pioneers in many aspects of medicine, including anatomy, surgery, and pharmacology. The panelists explore these topics in depth, discussing ancient medical procedures and remedies, as well as the theories behind them. They also delve into the societal attitudes towards medicine and illness in ancient Greece.

The panelists also touch on other aspects of Greek society, such as the Olympics and theatre. They discuss the history of the Olympic games and the significance they held in ancient Greek society. They also explore the world of Greek theatre, including famous playwrights such as Sophocles and Euripides.

Throughout the episode, Fry challenges the panelists with a variety of trivia questions related to ancient Greece. The questions range from the esoteric (such as the name of the temple in Athens dedicated to the goddess Athena) to the downright bizarre (such as the historical significance of a cucumber in ancient Greek society).

Overall, season 7, episode 13 of QI is an informative and engaging exploration of ancient Greece. Fry and the panelists provide entertaining and insightful commentary on a wide range of topics, from mythology to medicine. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for some laughs, this episode of QI is sure to entertain.