The Story of China with Michael Wood

The Story of China with Michael Wood is an epic adventure-filled history series from PBS that takes viewers on an immersive journey through the sweeping history of China, from its earliest beginnings to the present day. The show aired in 2017, and features a captivating blend of beautiful landscape cinematography, fascinating historical exploration, and insightful cultural commentary.

At the helm of this grand exploration is renowned British historian and broadcaster Michael Wood, whose passion for the subject matter is infectious. Known for his ability to reconstruct the past in a relatable way, Wood combines his wealth of knowledge with an engaging approach to effectively narrate the complexity and richness of China's history.

The Story of China is divided into six riveting episodes, each one focusing on a different era or dynasty in the vast tapestry of China's past. Over the course of the series, we're treated to a comprehensive chronicle that seamlessly merges ancient history, philosophy, culture, and personal stories. The viewer delves into China's origins in the bronze age, the birth of its Confucian belief system, the zenith of its power during the Tang Dynasty, through the Mongol invasion and the reign of Kublai Khan as well as the impact of the Opium Wars, and finally into the superpower that it has become today.

However, this is not to say that The Story of China is merely a dry historical documentary. Quite the contrary, in fact. Michael Wood’s approach ably brings the narratives alive, making it intriguing and palatable to modern audiences. He combines hard historical facts with an exploration of culture, lore, and the human stories behind the dynasties - showing us the reality of life in different periods of China's past. Additionally, there are in-depth interviews with ordinary Chinese people who share their life experiences, enhancing the personal, 'human' aspect of the narrative.

One of the standout elements of The Story of China is its impressive and atmospheric visual narration. The series is beautifully shot, combining sweeping panoramic vistas of China’s breathtaking landscapes with the intimate nuances of its city backstreets, traditional buildings, and busy markets. It's a brilliant fusion of the grandeur of the country's natural world with the detail and vibrance of its urban environments.

Another aspect that sets this series apart is its nuanced examination of Chinese cultural ideals and beliefs. It explores the philosophies that have shaped the Chinese psyche over millennia, such as Confucian values, Taoist beliefs, and Buddhist influences. Particular attention is given to China's notable contributions to world civilization – in science, technology, arts, and philosophy.

Through The Story of China, viewers will garner a deeper understanding of how historical events have shaped present-day China and gain insight into the country’s heritage. As well as covering the significant political and military events, the series also delves into social history, looking at changing attitudes to women, the family, and the status of minority groups.

Wood also astutely acknowledges the country's darker periods, but he provokes thought rather than pointing fingers, and encourages viewers to see beyond Western perspectives and understand China in its unique historical context. The series does not shy away from examining the difficult moments of China's past, but it does so with sensitivity and respect, acknowledging the complexities of the country's journey.

From the spectacle of Beijing's Forbidden City and the Great Wall, to the pristine beauty of the Yellow Mountains; from the hallowed terracotta soldiers of Xi'an to the vibrant cityscapes of modern-day Shanghai – The Story of China takes you on an unforgettable tour of China's past and its inexorable rising present.

As such, The Story of China with Michael Wood is more than just a chronological narration of events. It is an empathetic, comprehensive effort to understand and narrate the experiences of a vast, complex civilization and its people. It is a highly recommended series for anyone interested in China's history, culture, and its global influence.