Six Centuries of Verse

Six Centuries of Verse from Acorn Media released in 1984 is an exquisitely curated collection of some of the greatest poetry masterpieces ever composed, spanning across six centuries, engrossing the audience into an emblematic ride of literary history. This anthology is a rare fusion of art, literature, and history that provides viewers with an immersive experience of the evolution of English poetry, from the 14th century to the 20th century.

Essentially, the show consists of 13 parts where each episode is devoted to a specific era or a specific poet, glittering with a host of famous poems being recited by some of the most iconic actors and actresses of the time. Renowned actor Sir John Gielgud graciously hosts this artistic voyage across eras. The performances culminate in the form of a spoken word poetry, where oral recitation brings the written text to life. This revival of the old-age tradition of oral storytelling adds extraordinary vibrancy to the verses, empowering the audience to relive every emotion and thought penned by the poet, making the feelings expressed feel their own - happiness, sorrow, love, despair – they all find a way to the viewers' hearts.

The series begins with the Early English Lyrics of the 14th century, moving on to Chaucer and other prominent poets of the Middle Ages. This is followed by periods of the English Renaissance and the metaphysical poets, continuing into the late 17th century, and proceeding to the transitional phase of the Augustans and Romantics. The Romantic poets are among the most celebrated ones featured. As the series progresses, it navigates further into the 19th century with the Victorians, and finally winds up in the 20th century with a focus on war poets and modernism. The poems presented range from the haunting works of T. S. Eliot to the primal intensity of Dylan Thomas. This comprehensive timeline presents a unique opportunity to trace the progression and transitions in themes, styles, and motifs of poetry, reflecting the changes in society, culture, and human thought over the centuries.

Adding to the charm of this literary journey, the show brings on board a group of accomplished British actors to recite the poems. Actors like Peggy Ashcroft, Ralph Richardson, and Anthony Hopkins bring their theatrical brilliance to the words, igniting them with emotion, power, and rhythm; this transforms each poem into a living, breathing entity. Fiona Shaw, for instance, gives a captivating performance of T.S Eliot's Four Quartets. The context of every recital is enhanced by appropriate backdrops, costumes, and music, creating an ambiance that transcends the viewer back in time to the era of the poem's conception.

This series is more than just an anthology of poems. It also illustrates the vital role poetry has played in documenting history, unlocking human emotion, and expressing the human condition. It successfully highlights how poets have acted as observers, commentators, and critics of society, culturally and politically. The poems selected don't simply display an array of literary devices or demonstrate the prowess of the English language but also tell stories about humanity's journey over six centuries.

Moreover, to supplement the understanding of the viewers, Sir John Gielgud provides insightful commentary and background to each poet and poem, also focusing on the evolving English language and various literary trends over time. His eloquent introductions help the audience tune into the historical and authorial context of the masterpiece they are about to witness.

Six Centuries of Verse is not just a show for poetry enthusiasts or literature students. It is a captivating collection for anyone who appreciates art and history and is curious about the evolution of human expression and language. The way it presents historical literature with a modern sense of understanding is a testament to the timelessness of the verses and their relevance even today. It is a unique meeting of different art forms where profound words, captivating performances, and artful staging coalesce to create an enriching and evocative experience.