Middle

Forged by conquest, and ruled by intimidation and diplomacy, Egypt's New Kingdom was built by men and women of astonishing ambition. For nearly 500 years (1560 B.C. to 1080 B.C.), the pharaohs of Egypt struggled to shape the science, culture, and politics of the ancient world. In the process, they would create the first great empire in history.

During the Renaissance, sailors set off into uncharted waters in search of new trade routes and lucrative luxury goods. Advancements in navigational tools, including lateen sails and the astrolabe, aided explorers such as Columbus and da Gama on their journeys.

Explores the newly discovered uses of realism, mathematics, and perspective in art; the introduction of new musical instruments and changes in musical style; and how literature flourished thanks to the innovation of the printing press. Explores Leonardo, Machiavelli, and Shakespeare, whose works continue to be admired and emulated today. DVD divided into chapters.

Investigates the driving forces behind this brilliant period of artistic and scientific achievement. Discover how humanists like Petrarch pioneered the rediscovery of ancient Greek and Roman culture, sparking an explosion of creativity and innovation. Changes abound in politics and religion as well.