Ancient Worlds

Ancient Worlds is an intriguing six-part documentary series from BBC that first aired in 2010. This compelling series, developed and presented by noted historian Richard Miles, traverses the annals of time to reveal the labyrinth-like complexities of our shared ancient past. With his inclusive perspective, Miles invites viewers on a journey that roots itself in the epic tales of the oldest civilizations, illustrating the diverse narratives of the human stories that gave birth to our modern world.

Ancient Worlds offers a unique exploration of the profound legacies of early cultures and civilizations that span continents and millennia. It's a captivating and extensive overview that supremely benefits from the detailed examination of ancient history and archaeology, with plentiful on-the-ground footage providing a vivid sense of place and time. This series introduces audiences to a kaleidoscopic assortment of civilizations, ranging from the powerhouses of the ancient Mediterranean, such as the Egyptians, the Greeks and the Romans, to the long-gone empires in the Middle East and Asia.

The initial frame of the series focuses on the birth of civilizations. The audience gets profound insights into the archaeological discovery of ‘Çatalhöyük’, a Neolithic settlement present in modern Turkey that existed around 7500BC. This excavation is presented as something akin to a historical Rosetta Stone—illuminating and explaining insights about the evolutionary journey from nomadic existence to complex, organised societies. Following episodes document the invention of writing in Mesopotamia, the first towns and cities, and the early empires of the East and West, thereby tracing the broad trajectory of human history from the stone age to the age of empires.

What sets Ancient Worlds apart is not only its insights into the societal, cultural, political, and technological strides of our ancestors but also its exploration of the timeless philosophical questions these milestones provoke. The show is as much a contemplation of human nature and our capacity for innovation, cooperation, violence, and ambition as it is a history lesson. By investigating creation myths, the birth of democracy, the rise and fall of empires and the eventual transformation towards monotheistic religions, it highlights the intricate and interwoven tapestry of human evolution, revealing how intimately our contemporary society is linked to these epochal events.

The series is further bolstered by Richard Miles's presentation. As he guides viewers through these ancient marvels, he maintains an accessible approach that never feels dry or overly academic. Miles’ passion for the material is apparent, and his mix of expert knowledge, engaging storytelling, and personal enthusiasm are infectious. Grammy award-winning composer Richard Blair-Oliphant further enhances the story of humanity's past by contributing an evocative soundtrack. Its music has suitably epic orchestral scopes, augmenting the visual footage and the narratives' gravity.

In terms of execution, the producers blend Miles's narrations and interviews with scholars with excellent location shooting, CGI, and dramatic reconstructions to illuminate different aspects, offering a balanced look that is both informative and engaging. Furthermore, the documentary might inspire admiration for what our ancestors achieved, and reflection about what their actions mean for their descendants today. This blending of a captivating narrative with thought-provoking implications distinguishes Ancient Worlds, making it insightful, accessible, and deeply human.

In conclusion, Ancient Worlds is a sterling example of similarly themed documentaries that marry grand historical narrative with illuminating insights and absorbing storytelling. It excels in conveying an extensive portrait of ancient civilizations, utilizing archaeological evidence, expert interviews, and evocative location shots. It represents a comprehensive and accessible entry point for anyone interested not only in the antiquities from our shared human story but from a perspective that highlights their everlasting relevance and impact on modern times. Throughout its exploration, the series serves as a powerful testament to humanity's ingenuity, resourcefulness, ambition, and resilience. This is a documentary about the ancient world that encapsulates the breadth and depth of human experience, affirming our interconnected past and helping us better understand who we are today—a truly global tour de force.