Civilisation – The Light of Experience

In “Civilisation: The Light of Experience,” Kenneth Clark takes viewers on a journey through the history of Western civilization. In his typically engaging and erudite style, Clark explores the ways in which artists, philosophers, and scientists have helped to shape our understanding of the world around us.

One of the most striking aspects of “Civilisation” is Clark’s ability to draw connections between seemingly disparate fields of knowledge. He takes us from the vast expanse of the universe, as revealed by the telescope, to the tiny world of microbes, as seen through the microscope. Along the way, he shows us how the work of scientists like Galileo, Newton, and Leeuwenhoek helped to transform our understanding of the natural world.

But “Civilisation” is not just a celebration of scientific discovery. Clark also highlights the important role that art has played in shaping our understanding of the world. He devotes a significant amount of time to the Dutch Golden Age, a period in which artists like Vermeer, Rembrandt, and Frans Hals produced some of the most realistic and psychologically insightful portraits in the history of art. Clark sees this period as a watershed moment in the development of Western culture, as artists began to move away from idealized depictions of human beings and instead sought to capture the complexity and nuance of individual personalities.

Throughout “Civilisation,” Clark’s passion for the subject matter is palpable. His enthusiasm is infectious, and viewers are likely to find themselves swept up in his eloquent descriptions of scientific discovery and artistic achievement. Moreover, his approach is refreshingly accessible, as he avoids the jargon and technical language that can often make discussions of art and science seem impenetrable.

Of course, “Civilisation” is not without its flaws. Some viewers may find Clark’s focus on Western civilization to be too narrow, and his Eurocentric perspective may strike some as outdated. Moreover, his treatment of certain topics, such as colonialism and slavery, can seem cursory and insufficient. But despite these criticisms, “Civilisation” remains a compelling and thought-provoking series, one that is well worth revisiting.

In “Civilisation: The Light of Experience,” Kenneth Clark offers us a window into the world of art, science, and philosophy. His insights are sure to inspire viewers to take a closer look at the world around them, and to seek out the beauty and complexity that lies just beneath the surface. Whether you’re a fan of art, science, or just great storytelling, “Civilisation” is a must-see series.