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'.

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.
Mix Tape
Running

Mix Tape

Mix Tape is a four-part event miniseries adapted from the popular and critically acclaimed novel by Jane Sanderson. Beginning in Sheffield, England in 1989 with Daniel and Alison's all-encompassing teenage romance, forever etched in their memories through the music of their generation. To the modern day reality of their adult relationships, now living on opposite sides of the world.

A new chapter begins for Daniel and Alison when they reconnect through a song from their shared past and explore their burning curiosity to understand if this is the love, and life, they were meant to have.

GenreDrama
Criminal Minds
Running

Criminal Minds

Criminal Minds revolves around an elite team of FBI profilers who analyze the country's most twisted criminal minds, anticipating their next moves before they strike again.

For All Mankind
Running

For All Mankind

Imagine a world where the global space race never ended. This thrilling "what if" take on history from Ronald D. Moore (Outlander, Battlestar Galactica) spotlights the high-stakes lives of NASA astronauts and their families.

Beyond the Gates
Running

Beyond the Gates

Beyond the Gates is set in a leafy Maryland suburb just outside of Washington D.C., and in one the most affluent African American counties in the United States. Here you'll find a posh gated community with winding tree-lined streets and luxurious mansions to call home. At the center of this community are the Duprees, a powerful and prestigious multi-generational family that is the very definition of Black royalty. But behind these pristine walls and lush, manicured gardens are juicy secrets and scandals waiting to be uncovered. And those that live outside these gates are watching closely. These are the places where our characters live, love, work and play. Those who have "made it" and those who haven't are all trying to navigate life … and some with more grace than others.

GenreDrama
All Elite Wrestling: Dynamite
Running

All Elite Wrestling: Dynamite

WarnerMedia announced today that it is partnering with All Elite Wrestling (AEW), the new professional wrestling promotion featuring a world-class roster of diverse male and female wrestlers, giving fans a new wrestling experience for the first time in 20 years. WarnerMedia and AEW together will build this powerhouse sporting league from the ground up and will begin airing weekly matches later this year. With this league, AEW is introducing a new generation of wrestlers to fans, offering fun, gripping and authentic athletic matches that will make wrestling more accessible to a broad audience.