Genius of the Ancient World

Genius of the Ancient World is an illuminating 2015 series produced by Acorn TV that seeks to delve deep into the minds of three of history's most profound thinkers. These thinkers are not from the recent past, but rather, they stem from a period known as the 'Axial Age', an era from 800 to 200 BC, recognized for unprecedented intellectual advancements amidst turbulent socio-political times.

Hosted by the eloquent historian Bettany Hughes, the series uncovers the ideas and impacts of Buddha, Socrates, and Confucius — three intellectual giants whose ideas continue to influence and inspire billions around the globe centuries after their existences. The series is not just an abstract exploration of their ideas; it serves as a biographical journey offering keen insights into their personal lives, the socio-cultural circumstances of their times, and the relevance of their philosophies in the contemporary world.

The first episode is dedicated to Buddha (c. 483–400 B.C.), unravelling his journey from Siddhartha Gautama, the privileged prince, to become Buddha, 'The Enlightened One'. An elaborate exploration of Indian subcontinent's rich historical tapestry complements the narrative of Buddha's philosophical revolution. Viewers are not only given a tour of the sites associated with Buddha’s life but are also introduced to the essential tenets of Buddhism, including the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path.

Next up the series dives into the life and thoughts of Socrates (469–399 B.C.), the ever-questioning philosopher from ancient Athens. As a man who left no written records, the understanding of Socrates' philosophy is based on accounts by his followers like Plato and Xenophon. The episode carefully dissects and discusses concepts such as the Socratic method, the pursuit of virtue, and the idea of the 'unexamined life' to leave the audiences with a deeper understanding of Socratic wisdom.

The final episode is a thorough account of Confucius (551–479 B.C.) and his teachings that have profoundly influenced Chinese culture over the ages. This episode transports audiences to China, offering an immersive experience of the birthplace of Confucianism. Viewers are walked through the fundamental ideals of Confucius, like 'Ren' (benevolence/ human-heartedness), 'Yi' (righteousness), and 'Li' (ritual propriety), which form the bedrock of many societal structures in the East.

Each episode of Genius of the Ancient World is shot onsite at the locations historically significant to these philosophers, adding an authentic touch and context to each narrative. These exploratory journeys provide a comprehensive understanding of the environments these luminaries were part of, and how these environments shaped their ideologies.

Despite dealing with dense philosophical concepts, Bettany Hughes articulates these complicated ideas with lucidity and charm, making the series accessible even to those who are novices in the world of philosophy. Her expert storytelling, along with stunning visuals, engaging interviews with historians, philosophers, and archaeologists, makes the series a captivating watch.

On top of being a historical and philosophical exploration, Genius of the Ancient World subtly draws parallels between the challenges faced by these ancient thinkers and those faced by society today. This reflective exercise nudges viewers to evaluate their own world views and philosophies, underlining the enduring relevance of the ideas these geniuses left behind.

The series is a must-watch for scholars, students, and enthusiasts of philosophy, history, and culture, as well as casual viewers curious about the world and its history. It's as informative as it is gripping, ensuring that its audience walks away with a richer understanding of these ancient philosophers and their profound contributions to human civilisation.

In conclusion, Genius of the Ancient World is a masterful blend of archaeology, history, philosophy, and storytelling, allowing viewers to discover and delve into the minds of thinkers who've shaped the world's intellectual foundations. It is an intriguing journey into our shared human past and the thought processes that have forged the basis of societies across the globe, delivered in a package of excellent production quality and insightful narration.