Watch Ancient Lives

Ancient Lives is a documentary television series that was first aired in 1984. Hosted by archaeologist and historian John Romer, the series explores the everyday lives of the ancient Greeks and Egyptians, through the lens of their art, architecture, and material culture.

The show's primary focus is on the ancient city of Thebes, located in modern-day Egypt. Through six episodes, viewers are taken on a journey through Thebes, from its rise to power in the New Kingdom period of ancient Egypt, to its decline and eventual abandonment. Along the way, Romer introduces us to the people who lived and worked in Thebes, using the artifacts they left behind to help piece together their stories.

Each episode of Ancient Lives begins with Romer introducing us to a specific object or site in Thebes. From there, he investigates the object or site in detail, providing historical context and explaining what it can tell us about the people who created it. Throughout the series, viewers are treated to stunning footage of the ancient city, from sweeping aerial shots of the temples and tombs of the Valley of the Kings, to close-up shots of intricately carved reliefs and decorative objects.

One of the strengths of Ancient Lives is the way that it combines history with art history. Viewers learn not just about the lives of the ancient Egyptians, but also about the ways in which they expressed themselves through their art and architecture. From the colossal statues of pharaohs to the delicate jewelry worn by women, Romer helps us to appreciate the beauty and complexity of ancient Egyptian art, while also explaining its significance within its cultural context.

Another highlight of Ancient Lives is Romer himself. He is an engaging and knowledgeable guide, with a clear passion for the subject matter. His enthusiasm is infectious, and he does an excellent job of breaking down complex ideas into easy-to-understand terms. Whether he is discussing the religious beliefs of the ancient Egyptians or the technical skills required to carve a statue, he is always engaging and informative.

Overall, Ancient Lives is an excellent documentary series that succeeds in bringing the ancient world to life. By focusing on the lives of ordinary people rather than just the ruling elites, it provides a more nuanced and complete picture of ancient Egypt. It is highly recommended to anyone with an interest in history, archaeology, or art history.

Ancient Lives is a series that ran for 1 seasons (4 episodes) between September 30, 1984 and on Athena