The Dark Ages: An Age of Light

The Dark Ages: An Age of Light (2012)

EndedDocumentary showHistory

The Dark Ages have been misunderstood. History has identified the period following the fall of the Roman Empire with a descent into barbarism - a terrible time when civilisation stopped. Waldemar Januszczak disagrees. In this four-part series he argues that the Dark Ages were a time of great artistic achievement, with new ideas and religions provoking new artistic adventures. He embarks on a fascinating trip across Europe, Africa and Asia, visits the world's most famous collections and discovers hidden artistic gems, all to prove that the Dark Ages were actually an 'Age of Light'.

Streaming

Watch Now

Network
Scheduleevery Tuesday at 21:00 (60 min)

Recent Episodes

EpisodeNameAirdate
S01E04The Men of the NorthDec 18, 2012
S01E03The Wonder of IslamDec 11, 2012
S01E02What the Barbarians Did for UsDec 4, 2012
S01E01The Clash of the GodsNov 27, 2012
View all episodesView all seasons

Frequently Asked Questions  Warning: Spoilers

When did 'The Dark Ages: An Age of Light' premiere?

'The Dark Ages: An Age of Light' premiered on January 17, 2012.

Who was the narrator of the show?

The show was narrated by British art historian Waldemar Januszczak.

What was the main focus of the show?

'The Dark Ages: An Age of Light' focused on the art and culture of the Dark Ages in Europe.

How many episodes were there in the series?

The series consisted of four episodes.

Which countries did the show explore in terms of art and culture?

'The Dark Ages: An Age of Light' explored the art and culture of Italy, Spain, France, and Britain.

Who were some of the key figures discussed in the series?

The series discussed key figures such as Charlemagne, Giotto, and Hildegard of Bingen.

What were some of the major themes explored in the show?

The show explored themes such as the rise of Christianity, the development of Gothic architecture, and the significance of illuminated manuscripts.

Who were the target audience for the show?

The show targeted art enthusiasts, history buffs, and individuals interested in the cultural development of the Dark Ages.

What were some of the challenges faced during the production of the series?

Some of the challenges faced during the production of the series included accessing and filming in historical sites, as well as obtaining rare and delicate artifacts for examination.

Did the show receive any awards or nominations?

Yes, the show received a nomination for Best Arts Documentary Series at the Grierson British Documentary Awards in 2012.

How was the series received by critics?

The series was generally well-received by critics, who praised its informative content and engaging presentation.

Did the show include reenactments or rely solely on historical footage and analysis?

The show relied on a combination of historical footage, analysis, and reenactments to bring the Dark Ages to life.

How did the show portray the Dark Ages in a different light compared to traditional views?

'The Dark Ages: An Age of Light' challenged the traditional negative perception of the Dark Ages, highlighting the cultural achievements and artistic advancements of the era.

Were there any interviews with experts or scholars in the series?

Yes, the series featured interviews with numerous experts and scholars in the field of art history and medieval studies.

What were some of the major artworks and architectural masterpieces discussed in the series?

The series showcased iconic artworks and architectural masterpieces such as the Bayeux Tapestry, the Chartres Cathedral, and the mosaics of Ravenna.

Did the series explore the influence of the Dark Ages on future art movements?

Yes, the series explored the lasting impact of the Dark Ages on subsequent art movements, including the Renaissance.

Cast

View all cast

Characters

View all characters

Also known as

  • The Dark Ages: An Age in Light

Recently Updated Shows

Recently updated shows that might be of your interest.
American Dad!
Running

American Dad!

In American Dad!, Stan Smith leads the all-American family in this animated sitcom filled with wild and crazy extremes. Everyday life is taken to the limit as Stan applies the same drastic measures used in his job at the CIA to his home life. Driven by machismo and the American dream, he often is blind to how horribly he fails at his attempts. This father might not know best, but he never stops trying.

Peaky Blinders
Running

Peaky Blinders

An epic gangster drama set in the lawless streets of 1920s Birmingham.

Mayor of Kingstown
Running

Mayor of Kingstown

Mayor of Kingstown is set in a small Michigan town where the only industry remaining are federal, state, and private prisons, the story follows the McLusky family, the power brokers between the police, criminals, inmates, prison guards and politicians, in a city completely dependent on prisons and the prisoners they contain. It is a stark and brutal look at the business of incarceration.

GenreDrama
Shrinking
Running

Shrinking

Shrinking follows a grieving therapist who starts to break the rules and tell his clients exactly what he thinks. Ignoring his training and ethics, he finds himself making huge, tumultuous changes to people's lives... including his own.

GenreComedy
Sheriff Country
Running

Sheriff Country

Sheriff Country focuses on straight-shooting sheriff Mickey Fox, the stepsister of Cal Fire's division chief Sharon Leone, who investigates criminal activity as she patrols the streets of small-town Edgewater while contending with her ex-con father, Wes, who is an off-the-grid marijuana grower, and a mysterious incident involving her wayward daughter.

GenreDrama, Crime