David Wilson Researcher, Writer, TV Producer and Director 

Presented by Dr Michael Scott.  BBC4 November 2010

 

 

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What really went on at the ancient Greek oracle at Delphi? How did it get its awesome reputation? And why is it still influential today? Michael Scott of Warwick University uncovers the secrets of the most famous oracle in the Ancient World. A vital force in ancient history for a thousand years, it's now one of Greece's most beautiful tourist sites, but in its time it has been a gateway into the supernatural, a cockpit of political conflict, and a beacon for internationalism. And at its heart was the famous inscription which still inspires visitors today: "Know Thyself".  First shown on 22 November 2010, it drew 500,000 cable viewers to BBC4.

 

‘Best Documentary...Scott puts the site and seers of the Oracle in evocative context’ – Daily Mail
 
‘Deftly shows how Athens used the sanctuary to proclaim its dominance over Greece’  - Sunday Times 
 
‘An engaging hour’ – The Times        ‘Another glamorous classicist’ – Evening Standard