Living With The Gods: The BBC Radio 4 series

Neil MacGregor explores the role and expression of shared beliefs through time and around the world, using specially selected objects from the British Museum and beyond. The series examines how rituals and systems of belief have shaped our societies, from the beginnings of belief to power struggles and political battles between faiths and states.

Format: CD-Audio
Publication date: 18 January 2018
Publisher: BBC Audio, A Division Of Random House

The BBC Radio 4's landmark series, written and presented by Neil MacGregor, delves into the profound exploration of faith in society. Spanning 30 captivating episodes, this extraordinary series takes viewers on a journey through time and across the globe, examining the intricate tapestry of shared beliefs. Through the lens of specially selected objects from the British Museum and beyond, MacGregor converses with experts from diverse fields, visiting key landmarks from the serene banks of the Ganges to the sacred walls of Jerusalem.

In this captivating series, MacGregor delves into the origins of belief, tracing the evolution from the elemental worship of fire, water, and the sun to the intricate rituals and systems of faith that have shaped our societies. From ancient festivals and pilgrimages to power struggles and political battles between faiths and states, the series offers a comprehensive examination of humanity's enduring quest for belief, belonging, and connection with the vast cosmos.

Among the remarkable objects featured in the series are the Lion Man, a small ivory sculpture estimated to be over 40,000 years old; the 16th-century ivory and gold qibla, used for finding the direction of Mecca; and the Lampedusa Cross, crafted from fragments of a refugee boat that tragically wrecked off the Italian coast in 2013.

Produced in partnership with the British Museum, this enlightening series offers a captivating glimpse into the depths of human spirituality and the enduring power of faith. With a runtime of 6 hours and 50 minutes, it is a testament to the BBC's commitment to delivering thought-provoking content that sparks intellectual curiosity and inspires cultural understanding.

Weight: 176g
Dimension: 144 x 139 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781785296581
Edition number: Unabridged ed