Eps 30: The Queen of Heaven (Mario Day)

In this 10-minute podcast episode titled "The Queen of Heaven (Mario Day)," the host discusses the origins of the phrase "The Queen of Heaven" and its connection to the fictional character Mario, from the popular video game franchise. The host begins by explaining that the term "The Queen of Heaven" has historical and religious significance, often associated with goddesses and divine figures from various cultures. However, they note a peculiar connection between this phrase and the character Mario, whose games are filled with references to kings and queens. The discussion then delves into the historical origin of the phrase, tracing it back to ancient Mesopotamia, where the goddess Ishtar was referred to as the "Queen of Heaven." The host finds it intriguing that this centuries-old association has somehow made its way into the Mario games. They highlight how the games often feature female characters in positions of power, such as Princess Peach and Rosalina, who could be seen as modern-day interpretations of "The Queen of Heaven." Furthermore, the podcast points out that these powerful female characters are usually sought after or protected by Mario, making them integral to the game's storyline. The host concludes by stating that the connection between Mario and "The Queen of Heaven" seems like an interesting and perhaps unintended juxtaposition. They leave the listeners pondering whether Nintendo intentionally incorporated this historical religious reference or if it's simply a fascinating coincidence.