At the Edge of the World? - 3000BC-AD 1603 (v.1) (BBC Radio Collection)

Schama CBE, Simon

ISBN 10: 0563494727 ISBN 13: 9780563494720

Publisher: BBC Physical Audio, 2003

Synopsis

The story of Britain from the earliest settlements in 3000BC to the death of Elizabeth 1 in 1603. To look back at the past is to understand the present. In this vivid account of over 4000 years of British history Simon Schama takes us on an epic journey which encompasses the very beginnings of the nation's identity, when the first settlers landed on Orkney. From the successes and failures of the monarchy to the daily life of a Roman soldier stationed on Hadrian's Wall, Schama gives a vivid, fascinating account of the many different stories and struggles that lie behind the growth of our island nation.

About this title

Product Description

To look back at the past is to understand the present. In this vivid account of over 4000 years of British history Simon Schama takes us on an epic journey which encompasses the very beginnings of the nation's identity, when the first settlers landed on Orkney.

Review

"History clings tight but it also kicks loose. Disruption as much as persistence is its proper subject". If only it had been dispensed Simon Schama-style at school. His enthusiasm without being overbearing or overwhelming is astonishing, considering his erudition and esteem world-wide.

He puts human stuffing into remote cardboard cut-out progenitors of our dynasty and destiny, realistically conveying spiritual and temporal needs and failings. Indeed, immature princes, homosexuals, royal mistresses, divorce and remarriage did not originate with the 20th century, and the quotidian norm of verbal and literal back stabbing and saving one's skin, hypocrisies of Church and State and horrible death from battle have been conspicuous from the outset. "War's plunder was the glue of loyalty binding noble warriors to the king".

British history turns out to be a show of many foreign parts and Timothy West's enlightening reading irresistibly spurs involvement with Roman government, Anglo Saxon confusions, doings of French and Spanish nobility, Henry VII's manoeuvres and Elizabeth I's intrigues--specifically the latter's spider-and-fly activities with turbulent Mary Stuart.

Schama says in his absorbing introduction "History should be not just instruction but a pleasure", This production fulfils that principle, and is utterly marvellous. (4 cassettes, running time 8 hours) --Lyn Took

About this edition

• Publisher: BBC Physical Audio
• Publication date: 2003
• ISBN 10: 0563494727
• ISBN 13: 9780563494720
• Binding: Audio CD
• Language: English