"Civilisation: A Personal View by Kenneth Clark" is a significant TV show that delves into Western art and culture history from ancient times to the modern era. The first episode, "The Skin of Our Teeth," zeroes in on the Dark Ages. This was the time between the downfall of the Roman Empire and the rise of Charlemagne, where Europe barely held on to civilization. This survival was possible because of a few monks, artists, and rulers who protected and carried forward the classical heritage.
The episode is led by Kenneth Clark, a renowned art historian and presenter. He takes us to different places and landmarks that showcase the artistic and intellectual milestones of this chaotic time. He goes to Ravenna to look at the stunning Byzantine mosaics, travels to Skellig Michael and Iona islands to understand the monastic culture, explores the artistry of the Norsemen, looks at the roots of Romanesque sculpture in the baptistry of Poitiers, and wraps up at Aachen, praising Charlemagne's efforts to bring back classical learning and art.
This episode gives us an interesting start to the series as Clark brings passion, curiosity, and eloquence to the subject. He talks about the art pieces not just factually but also touches on their emotional and spiritual aspects, along with their historical and cultural contexts. He also shares his personal opinions and highlights the various aspects of human creativity.
Visually, the episode is a treat with beautiful shots of landscapes, buildings, and art pieces that Clark discusses. The camera work is vibrant and captures the beauty of the different environments. The editing creates a logical and engaging flow of images and ideas, and the background music is appropriate, adding to the overall mood of each scene.
"The Skin of Our Teeth" is a gripping and inspiring episode that encourages us to value and learn from the artistic treasures of the past. It also makes us think about our part in preserving and creating civilization.
The episode is led by Kenneth Clark, a renowned art historian and presenter. He takes us to different places and landmarks that showcase the artistic and intellectual milestones of this chaotic time. He goes to Ravenna to look at the stunning Byzantine mosaics, travels to Skellig Michael and Iona islands to understand the monastic culture, explores the artistry of the Norsemen, looks at the roots of Romanesque sculpture in the baptistry of Poitiers, and wraps up at Aachen, praising Charlemagne's efforts to bring back classical learning and art.
This episode gives us an interesting start to the series as Clark brings passion, curiosity, and eloquence to the subject. He talks about the art pieces not just factually but also touches on their emotional and spiritual aspects, along with their historical and cultural contexts. He also shares his personal opinions and highlights the various aspects of human creativity.
Visually, the episode is a treat with beautiful shots of landscapes, buildings, and art pieces that Clark discusses. The camera work is vibrant and captures the beauty of the different environments. The editing creates a logical and engaging flow of images and ideas, and the background music is appropriate, adding to the overall mood of each scene.
"The Skin of Our Teeth" is a gripping and inspiring episode that encourages us to value and learn from the artistic treasures of the past. It also makes us think about our part in preserving and creating civilization.