| The Greeks: Crucible of Civilisation is another DVD in the amazing Empire series of documentaries that features one of the most civilised and inspirational cultures of all time, the ancient Greeks. This DVD features all three episodes of the original SBS series that is masterfully narrated by Liam Neeson who does an a wonderful job at immersing the viewer into the glories of ancient Greece. The Greeks built one of the greatest empires of all time that ranged from their birthplace of the Mediterranean to various other parts of the world that included both Asia and Spain. Interestingly enough, much of the what the ancient Greeks have given the world those thousands of years ago is still used in the modern world today that include philosophy, war craft and politics. Learn about real-world characters that include Homer, Plato, Pericles and a variety of other ancient people that helped civilised the ancient cultures of a forgotten past. The first episode of the series is entitled "The Birth of Democracy" and tells the viewer of how democracy was founded in ancient Greece. Apart from politics, it also tells the turbulent tale of how the Athenians struggled against their nearest neighbour, the Spartans and it ends with a dramatic battle between the Persians and the Greeks. Episode two is entitled "The Golden Age" and showcases how the Greeks defeated the Persians and became a world-power to be reckoned with that also gave the world art, politics and philosophy. Episode 3 is entitled "The Collapse of Confidence" and focuses on the downfall of the Greek civilisation when the Greeks decided to wage war against the Spartans once again that led to the fall of democracy and a return to the dark ages. As with the previous series in this amazing documentary, the video quality of The Greeks: Crucible of Civilisation is quite exceptional for a documentary series. The series is also presented in an aspect ratio of 1.78:1 (16x9 Enhanced). The audio quality of The Greeks: Crucible of Civilisation is quite clear and audible that is accompanied by a brilliant musical score to help draw viewers into this rich and powerful empire. The series also supports Dolby Digital 2.0 stereo. There are no extras contained on this DVD series whatsoever. The Greeks: Crucible of Civilisation is easily one of my favourite discs of the Empire series that features one of the most wondrous and amazing civilisations of the ancient world. Although their empire has now disappeared, much of their philosophy and art still remains in the world today. A must have in any budding historians collection. - Andrew B | 
