AO Magazine - March April 2024

Explore the sinister side of history, where ancient murderers, assassins, and serial killers fill tales of intrigue and malice. But this issue is not just a recount of historical darkness and the macabre, it also reflects our continuous quest to understand the human psyche.

Featuring an exclusive interview with Kathy Reichs, celebrated forensic anthropologist and author of the Bones series, we offer a modern lens on ancient crimes, highlighting how forensic advancements unlock secrets of the past. Our exploration spans from the origins of the true crime genre to the intricate narratives of power and morality encapsulated by the legendary hashshashins and France’s scandalous affair of the poisons.

You’ll read about some of antiquity's most notorious killers and the dark sacrificial rituals of past societies then see how Homo sapiens contrast with our evolutionary kin, as we ponder our unique capacity for both creativity, empathy, and cruelty.

This issue is not just a recount of historical darkness and the macabre, but a reflection on our continuous quest to understand the human psyche. Through the ancient lens, we seek to comprehend the shadowy side of human nature and, perhaps, learn lessons to shape a better future.