Ep 4. Island of the Spirits

In NOVA season 27 episode 4 "Island of the Spirits," viewers are taken on a journey to the island of Pohnpei in the remote Pacific Ocean. This small island has been home to a mysterious ancient civilization for thousands of years, and NOVA takes a closer look at the amazing feats of engineering and construction that these early people accomplished using nothing but primitive tools and their own ingenuity.

The episode begins by examining the legend of Nan Madol, a city built entirely upon the surface of the water that is said to have been created by the spirits themselves. NOVA explores the mysteries surrounding the origins of this city and the purpose it served for the people who lived there.

As the team delves deeper into the history of the island, they reveal how the ancient inhabitants of Pohnpei managed to construct the massive, complex structures that make up Nan Madol. The city is made up of hundreds of artificial islets, each constructed from massive basalt stones weighing up to five tons each. NOVA shows the audience how these stones were quarried, transported, and put into place, all without the use of any modern tools or machinery.

The episode also explores the cultural and spiritual significance of these structures to the people of Pohnpei. The engineering feats found on the island are not only impressive from a technical standpoint, but they also speak to the deeply rooted beliefs and traditions of the island's native people. NOVA shows how the engineering and spirituality of the island are intertwined, with the structures they built serving both practical and spiritual purposes.

As the episode progresses, NOVA goes beyond the engineering and spiritual significance of the island to explore Pohnpei's unique biodiversity. The island has been isolated from the rest of the world for millions of years, allowing for the development of its own unique ecosystem. NOVA takes a close look at the fascinating and often bizarre plant and animal life that thrives on Pohnpei.

Finally, in a stunning conclusion, NOVA reveals how the ancient islanders were able to accomplish such amazing feats without any modern tools or machinery. Along with interviews from a variety of experts in fields ranging from archaeology to anthropology, the show presents a fascinating look at one of the most mysterious and awe-inspiring places on Earth.

Overall, NOVA season 27 episode 4 "Island of the Spirits" is a fascinating look at a remote corner of the world that has captivated people for centuries. Through stunning visuals and in-depth analysis, the show explores the connection between engineering, spirituality, and biodiversity, all while revealing the secrets of one of the most incredible civilizations in history. So, it can be a perfect treat for lovers of archaeology and history.