It was years ago that I first started getting interested in ancient Rome—the history, the fashion, the artwork . . .everything! Like many book-nerds, I found myself in the library on (perhaps) too many weekends and summer breaks, pouring over books on ancient Rome, or at home in front of the TV watching (and re-watching many times) the movie Ben-Hur. Back then, we didn’t have fancy channels like History or A and E to keep me entertained. I was forced to check out movies from the library on this, one of my favourite subjects. I am still really interested in the history of ancient Rome, especially having visited Rome a few years ago. I was delighted when I was contacted about checking out the 6 disc set The Ancient Rome Anthology.
I really do feel like I am back in Rome when I watch this DVD series. I haven’t gotten through all 6 yet, but do have some extra time over the holidays, in a few weeks—and you know what I’ll be doing! I love watching shows from the History Channel and A and E, because I am so easily able to transport myself to that destination/time period. If you’re in need of some out-of-body time, I suggest you check out The Ancient Rome Anthology DVD set, which retails for about $50.
These DVDs definitely look a lot more crisp and the scenery/actors look more life-like than the old VHS tapes I used to get from the library, in my youth. The acting has certainly changed over the years for reenactments, and the props and staging have improved as well. Have you seen any of the episodes from this series? Even if you have, I imagine the show would look so much better on DVD. This one is especially good for your nieces and nephews who are interested in history or like geeking out with educational programs. There’s enough gore and blood-shed to keep older children or adults entertained, and also enough actual history to make it entertaining/interesting to a wide group of people.
