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The Ancient World on Television         March 28 - April 3, 2005
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All times Eastern

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n.b. official descriptions are provided by the respective
networks' websites
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Monday, March 28
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5.00 p.m. |SCI| Who Killed Julius Caesar?
Historians, writers and film-makers have puzzled over the assassination of Julius Caesar for centuries. Using the latest technology and modern profiling techniques, experts reveal the truth behind history's most famous crime.

8.00 p.m. |SCI| What the Ancients Knew: The Chinese
Ancient Chinese researchers harnessed the power of the earth, wind, water and fire to provide emperors practical solutions for ruling empires. Many inventions such as movable type and the multistage rocket are creations of ancient Chinese scientists.
 
8.00 p.m. |HINT| Christianity: The First 1000 Years, Part 1
The story of the crucifixion of Jesus, Paul's preachings to the Gentiles, the crackdown by Roman authorities, the conversion of Constantine, and the fall of Rome to the Goths in 461 AD.  [part 2 follows]

9.00 p.m. |SCI| Secrets of the Buried Armies
In 1990, construction workers stumbled upon one of the most lavish mausoleums ever constructed. Over 8,000 silk-clad, life-size sculptures of soldiers accompanied Imperial Emperor Jing Di into the afterlife. Meet the ruler behind this palatial tribute.

10.00 p.m. |SCI| Mysterious Hanging Coffins of China
China's leading explorers have been trying to save the last vestiges of a society that buried their dead in coffins hanging off the side of limestone cliffs. Pollution, encroaching urbanization and graverobbers threaten to destroy these artifacts.
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Tuesday, March 29
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3.00 p.m. |DISCC| The Mystery of the Pharaoh's Eternal Stone
The second biggest pyramid in Egypt was built by the pharaoh Khephren, who also built the Sphinx; one of his statues was carved from gneiss, a rare stone that has not been found within 800 kilometres of his pyramid; where did the pharaoh find the stone?

3.30 p.m. |DISCC| The Mystery of the Rebel Pharaoh
Akhenaten is ancient Egypt's most mysterious and puzzling pharaoh; for no apparent reason, he destroyed the established religion of Egypt and moved 50,000 people to a lonely bay on the edge of the Nile, where he built a magnificent city from scratch.

7.00 p.m. |HINT|  Joshua at the Walls of Jericho
We know the walls of the legendary city "came tumblin' down." We'll explore when. Archaeologist Kathleen Kenyon argues that Jericho fell before Joshua arrived, and Professor Bryant Wood supports the biblical version of events

8.00 p.m. |DCIVC| Egypt Uncovered: Chaos and Kings
dna

9.00 p.m. |DCIVC| The Emperor of the Steppes
dna

10.00 p.m. |HINT|  Lost Treasures of the Ancient World--The Celts
In the First Millennium BC, the tribes known as the Celts were the dominant force on the continent of Europe. In fringe regions like Ireland, the Celtic people continued to flourish long into the Christian Age. These were warriors with a unique way of life, as this fascinating episode reveals. Dark religious rituals and a love of bloody fighting were a vital part of their life, and classical writers condemned what they saw as a barbarian lifestyle. But we now know that Celtic culture was rich and sophisticated. Buried Celtic treasures have revealed their achievement in crafts such as jewelry, while the great legends of Irish literature confirm that epic storytelling was also part of the life of this still-mysterious ancient people.  
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Wednesday, March 30
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6.00 p.m. |HINT| Pyramids: Majesty and Mystery
Standing majestically for centuries, the world's great pyramids have long inspired and mystified scholars. Leading experts and historians explore the engineering genius that created some of the largest structures on the planet. From ancient Egypt to Central America, we visit these technological masterpieces.

7.00 p.m. |DTC| Napoleon's Obsession: Quest for Egypt
In a plot to conquer Egypt, Napoleon set sail with 17,000 troops, 700 horses and 150 scientists. Though his conquest failed, research of the scientists that accompanied him gave birth to modern archeology and Egyptology.
 
8.00 p.m. |HINT| Sailing with the Phoenicians
Sail with a Phoenician captain along the trade routes of the Mediterranean to the ancient ports of Byblos, Rhodes, Tharros, Motya, and the famous Roman naval base at Carthage. Phoenicians, the ancient inhabitants of modern-day Lebanon, were known to be expert sailors. State-of-the-art technology and 3-D graphics allow viewers to see through the eyes of one these seaworthy Phoenicians, and insights from leading archaeology experts enhance the reality. 

8.30 p.m. |HINT| The Roman Empire in Africa
During the 2nd century AD, Roman war veterans were granted land in Northern Africa as a sign of gratitude from the politicians. This arid climate proved beneficial in the planting of vast olive groves and wheat fields. The area was prosperous and began to take on many aspects of Roman culture. We'll take a virtual tour through some of the numerous wealthy provinces, including the amphitheatre at El-Djem and the ingenious villa built to escape the hot African climate, and aided by state-of-the-art technology and 3-D graphics, see them as only the original inhabitants could have.
 
9.00 p.m. |HINT| Great Scientists: Aristotle
Dr. Allan Chapman, Oxford University professor and historian of science, presents this humorous and entertaining series charting the life and times of some of the world's most influential scientists. Using a blend of archive footage, animation, and comedy dramatizations, Chapman presents engaging and accessible introductions to their complex theories and ideas. We begin with the Father of Science--Aristotle, a man whose ideas were so important in the foundation of science that they remained unchallenged for nearly 2,000 years. A student of Plato's Academy, Aristotle challenged commonly held--and incorrect--views of the world. Allan Chapman journeys from Oxford's lecture theaters to the sunny beaches of Greece to tell us about the man who discovered the four elements--earth, air, wind, and fire--and first established the idea that there is a logical explanation for everything.

9.00 p.m. |HISTU|William the Conqueror
William's story begins in Northern France with his accession as William of Normandy in 1035. Over the next 30 years, he solidifies his rule through marriage, diplomacy, battle, intrigue, and savage intimidation. His foes prove no match. He builds numerous castles and cathedrals in Normandy to legitimize his rule, while laying claim as the rightful heir of Edward the Confessor and the throne of England. But when Edward dies in 1066, he bestows heir status on the Anglo-Saxon King Harold of Godwin. An enraged William, feeling betrayed by Edward and Harold, seeks papal support of his claim to the English throne. When it is granted what follows is the first D-Day--but in reverse: William's invasion of England from France. Join us for a riveting look at the invasion and the innovations William brought to his new empire.

9.30 p.m. |HINT|  Meet the Ancestors, Part 1
Charismatic archaeologist Julian Richards visits sites around the globe and uses the latest forensic techniques to illuminate the lives of ancient peoples. We follow him and his scientists as they seek out and then unravel a wide variety of material clues from graves and cremations that let our ancestors speak for themselves.

10.00 p.m. |NGU| Atlantis
What do we really know about the lost city of Atlantis and what happened on the day it died? Legend tells us that the golden civilization became so corrupt and depraved that it was destroyed by the angry gods, but did the city ever exist at all?

10.00 p.m. |HISTU| The Real Attila the Hun
No ruler in history represents the unbridled rage and brutality of the barbarian as much as Attila the Hun. In the 5th century, Attila swept through Europe, effectively extinguishing the classical Roman Empire. And for a time, he held the destiny of all of Western Europe firmly in his grasp. But in the end, it was Attila who unwittingly secured the future of the civilized world and Christian Europe. After his death, the Hun Empire began to break up, and the marauding Huns "scattered to the winds."

11.00 p.m. |HINT| Time Team: Beauport Park, Sussex
A Roman bathhouse unearthed near a huge mound of iron slag near the golf course at Beauport Park, Sussex, England, leads host Tony Robinson (Baldrick in Blackadder) to ask: "What is a Roman bathhouse doing here completely on its own, 40 miles from the nearest Roman town?" The search for other Roman buildings is on. There could be a lost city or forgotten fort, and Time Team, aided by surveyors, geophysicists, and even a dowser, have just three days to find it.  
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Thursday, March 31
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3.00 p.m. |DISCC| Malaria and the Fall of Rome
Was malaria behind the decline and fall of one of the most powerful empires the world has ever seen?

7.00 p.m. |SCI| Mummies of the Philippines
The recent discovery of ancient mummies in the Philippines ignites new interest among scientists. A modern, high-tech examination reveals a surprisingly sophisticated mummification technique used by these warrior/headhunters.

10.00 p.m. |HISTU|   Caligula: Reign of Madness
Caligula ruled the Roman Empire fewer than four years, and was only 28 when assassinated by officers of his guard in 41 AD. His reign was a legendary frenzy of lunacy, murder, and lust. Between executions, he staged spectacular orgies, made love to his sister, and declared himself a living god. Join us for a look at this devoted son, murderer, pervert, and loving father whose anguished life was far more bizarre than the myth that surrounds him.

11.00 p.m. |HISTU|  Ancient Civilizations
In this hour, we study sex in the ancient world--from Mesopotamians, who viewed adultery as a crime of theft, to Romans, who believed that squatting and sneezing after sex was a reliable method birth control. We also look at revealing Egyptian and Greek practices--from the origins of dildos, to intimate relations between Egyptian gods and goddesses, to the use of crocodile dung as a contraceptive.
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Friday, April 1
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5.00 a.m. |DCIVC| Empires in The Americas
dna

7.00 p.m. |DTC| Pyramids Are Everywhere
Travel beyond Egypt to Java, China and Iraq to learn why civilizations around the globe constructed pyramids. Ancient people were striving to be closer to God and the laws of physics required them to start with a broad base as they built upward.

7.00 p.m. |HINT|  Adam & Eve: Lost Innocence
A look at the world's first couple, who are credited with inventing civilization as we know it. We also compare similar stories in religions around the world.

8.00 p.m. |DTC| The Emperor of the Steppes
In a huge undertaking, researchers and archaeologists working in Upper Mongolia unearthed the sepulcher of the Emperor of the Steppes. This expedition may reveal insight into Mongolian history dating back to the second century BC.

9.00 p.m. |DTC| Mummies That Made Themselves
Travel to Japan to learn how Shingon Buddhist monks mummified their own bodies while still alive as a way to become Buddha in their own body. Learn how they stopped decomposition and if this painful process was worth the ultimate prize of immorality.

9.00 p.m. |DCIVC| The Mystery of the Miami Circle
dna 

9.00 p.m. |DISCC| Who Killed Julius Caesar
Historians writers and film-makers have puzzled over the assassination of Julius Caesar for centuries. Using the latest technology and modern profiling techniques experts reveal the truth behind history's most famous crime.

10.00 p.m. |DTC| Quest for the Lost Pharaoh
Follow Egyptologist Vassil Dobrev as he uncovers a hidden tomb of enormous proportions. By analyzing the hieroglyphics and the structure and placement of the tomb, Vassil reveals that the tomb dates back some 4,500 years.
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Saturday, April 2
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6.00 p.m. |DTC| The Quest for the True Cross
Based on the New York Times best-seller, scholarly detective work and historical adventure draw conclusions about the remains of Christ's actual cross. This comprehensive study could overturn centuries of academic assumptions about the crucifixion.

8.00 p.m. |NGU| Who Built Stonehenge?
dna

9.00 p.m. |SCI| The Helike: Real Atlantis
In 373 BC, the Greek city of Helike was destroyed by an earthquake and tsunami and disappeared into the sea. Modern archaeologists have spent decades searching for the lost underwater city until crucial clues finally came from geology.
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Sunday, April 3
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7.00 p.m. |HINT| Time Team: Beauport Park, Sussex
A Roman bathhouse unearthed near a huge mound of iron slag near the golf course at Beauport Park, Sussex, England, leads host Tony Robinson (Baldrick in Blackadder) to ask: "What is a Roman bathhouse doing here completely on its own, 40 miles from the nearest Roman town?" The search for other Roman buildings is on. There could be a lost city or forgotten fort, and Time Team, aided by surveyors, geophysicists, and even a dowser, have just three days to find it. 

7.00 p.m. |HISTU|  The Real Attila the Hun
No ruler in history represents the unbridled rage and brutality of the barbarian as much as Attila the Hun. In the 5th century, Attila swept through Europe, effectively extinguishing the classical Roman Empire. And for a time, he held the destiny of all of Western Europe firmly in his grasp. But in the end, it was Attila who unwittingly secured the future of the civilized world and Christian Europe. After his death, the Hun Empire began to break up, and the marauding Huns "scattered to the winds."

8.00 p.m. |HISTU| The True Story of Hannibal
One of history's greatest military leaders, at age nine Hannibal accompanied his father Hamilcar Barca on the Carthaginian expedition to conquer Spain. Before embarking, the boy vowed eternal hatred for Rome, his people's bitter rival. Twenty years later, in 218 BC, he left New Carthage (now Cartagena, Spain) to wage war on "The Eternal City" with an army of about 40,000, including cavalry and elephants. After crossing the Pyrénées and Rhône River, he traversed the Alps while beset by snowstorms, landslides, and hostile mountain tribes. This 2-hour special brings to life the story of the Carthaginian general who struck fear in all Roman hearts and wreaked havoc with his masterful military tactics, bringing the mighty Roman Republic to the brink of ruin. Archaeologists, historians, and military experts guide us through ancient Carthage and give insight into his military strategy up to defeat at Zama in 203 BC.  

9.00 p.m. |HINT| The Third Crusade
Proclaimed by Pope Gregory VIII, the Third Crusade (1189-1192) set out to reclaim Jerusalem from Saladin, Sultan of Egypt and Syria, who had seized it after the Battle of Hittin in 1187. Led by the three great leaders of Western Christendom--Richard I, Frederick I, and Philip II--the Crusaders left home with high hopes and expectations. Using groundbreaking 3-D CGI animation, combined with atmospheric recreations, we'll show viewers why their hopes would be dashed and expectations go largely unmet.

9.00 p.m. |TLC| Noah's Ark: The True Story
Search for the truth behind the story of Noah and his ark. Find out how Noah could have built such a structure and whether or not a great flood took place on the earth. The search for remains of the ark continues today.
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                        Channel Guide

A&E     The Arts and Entertainment Channel (cable)
DTC     Discovery Times Channel (U.S. Cable)*
DCIVC   Discovery Civilization (Canadian Cable)
DISCC   Discovery Channel (Canadian Cable)
DISCU   Discovery Channel (U.S. Cable)
HINT    History International (U.S. Cable)
HISTU   The History Channel (U.S. Cable)
HISTC   History Television (Canadian Cable)
NGU     National Geographic Channel (U.S. Cable)*
PBS     Public Broadcasting System (U.S. National Schedule)
TLC     The Learning Channel (cable)

*n.b. Canadian versions of these two channels have recently
been made available although the Canadian versions don't seem
to be making their schedules available yet. For what it's worth,
the Canadian version does seem to 'match up' in regards to
ancient programming most of the time.
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::Sunday, March 27, 2005 7:50:56 PM::
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