The Dark Ages: An Age Of Light

The Dark Ages: An Age Of Light is a 4-part history series on the Dark ages.

It argues that the Dark Ages were a time of great artistic achievement, with new ideas and religions provoking new artistic adventures, unlike what history otherwise documented previously.

To prove its point, the series journeys with host and historian Waldemar Januszczak as he embarks on a fascinating trip across Europe, Africa and Asia.

Here we’ll visit the world’s most famous history collections and discover hidden artistic gems, all to prove that the Dark Ages were actually an ‘Age of Light’.

Episode 1: The Clash of the Gods

Episode one details how the religion of Christianity emerged during the third century of the Roman Empire as an artistic force.

Episode 2: What the Barbarians Did for Us

Episode two follows the archaeological and historical trail of the so-called barbarians of Europe.

Although they are blamed for the fall of Rome, these barbarians were more than just fearsome warriors.

Converted to Christianity in the fourth century, the Vandals, Goths, and Huns went on to produce some of the greatest artistic and architectural achievements of the Dark Ages.

Episode 3: The Wonder of Islam

Episode three details how the rise of and spread of Islam gave way for societies to build on an ideology which created an opportunity for new art, science and wealth.

Episode 4: The Men of the North

Episode four investigates the Vikings of Scandinavia.

Although the Vikings terrorized and raided the coastal lines across Europe and beyond, they also spent as much time creating their own stunning artwork as they did stealing it from others.