The BEST episodes of Ancient Worlds
Every episode of Ancient Worlds ever, ranked from best to worst by thousands of votes from fans of the show. The best episodes of Ancient Worlds!
Archaeologist and historian Richard Miles explores the roots of civilisation, from the creation of the first cities in Mesopotamia some 6,000 years ago, to the decline and fall of the Roman Empire.
#1 - The Greek Thing
Season 1 - Episode 3 - Aired 11/24/2010
Richard Miles examines the paradoxes of Greek civilisation. The archaeologist and historian explains how despite being famed for its artistic, cultural and scientific achievements, this society based around city-states was also renowned for its political intrigue, brutal warmongering and deep social inequalities
#2 - The Republic Of Virtue
Season 1 - Episode 5 - Aired 12/8/2010
Richard Miles travels to Sicily and North Africa to explore the rise of the Roman Republic, from its fratricidal mythical beginnings, to its emergence as a powerful empire. Beginning in a cluster of hill villages, the Romans achieved the domination of the Mediterranean after defeating Carthage, and the historian argues that, as the territorial expansion started and the violence increased, Rome became its own worst enemy
#3 - City Of Man, City Of God
Season 1 - Episode 6 - Aired 12/15/2010
In the last of the series, archaeologist and historian Richard Miles examines the rise and fall of the Roman Empire. At the height of its power, the Roman Empire extended the benefits of its civilization to a 60 million citizens and subjects in a swathe of territory that extended from Hadrian's Wall to the banks of the Euphrates.
#4 - The Age of Iron
Season 1 - Episode 2 - Aired 11/17/2010
Archaeologist and historian Richard Miles examines the collapse of the Bronze Age 3,000 years ago, and how the civilisations of the subsequent Iron Age emerged. He explores the former Phoenician cities of Byblos and Tyre and their technological contributions, including the alphabet and deep-water sailing, before heading to Israel to learn how the Assyrian war machine affected small local powers
#5 - Return Of The King
Season 1 - Episode 4 - Aired 12/1/2010
Archaeologist and historian Richard Miles explores the triumphs and legacy of Alexander the Great, the conqueror who rose from the minor kingdom of Macedon and went on to control a vast empire stretching to Persia. The presenter also focuses on those who succeeded him after his demise in Babylon, and how they tried to maintain the empire by cunning rather than by the sword
