Ancient China

Part of Wonders of the Ancient World, an 11-volume set, Ancient China explores four major sites of historical and cultural significance that illustrate important aspects of China's long and complex history. Originally four separate programs produced for German television, each English-narrated segment rises above mere travel video patter: the section on the Great Wall (the world's largest stone structure) offers a much bigger picture of China's culture, the Summer Palace segment illustrates the philosophy of Chinese landscape design, a fascinating look at the Forbidden City shares insights into ancient city planning and engineering, and a visit to Pingyao--a 14th-century city from the Han dynasty--illuminates the commercial development of a growing empire. Boasting visually stunning footage, Ancient China consistently correlates the country's history with contemporary life in China. Recommended. Other titles in the series include: Ancient African Architecture, Ancient China, Ancient Egypt, Ancient Greece, Ancient India, and Ancient Rome. Aud: J, H, P. (E. Gieschen)