Ep 1. Origins of Fear

Of Sharks and Men is a compelling documentary series that explores the relationship between humans and one of the most feared creatures of the sea - the shark. Season 1 episode 1, which is titled Origins of Fear, sets the tone for the entire series by diving into the history and myths that have built up around these formidable creatures.

Origins of Fear starts by dispelling some of the common misconceptions about sharks. Despite what Hollywood movies would have us believe, not all sharks are man-eating monsters. In fact, humans are not a natural part of a shark's diet. The episode also highlights the incredible diversity of sharks, with over 400 species known to science. From the gentle whale shark to the aggressive bull shark, there is a vast array of shapes and sizes within this group of animals.

The episode then delves into the origins of humans' fear of sharks. It is easy to see why, over the centuries, we have looked at these animals with dread. Sharks are efficient, deadly predators that have survived for over 400 million years. They have remarkable senses that allow them to detect prey from hundreds of meters away, and their jaws are incredibly powerful. With the rise of tourism and water sports in the 20th century, it is no surprise that there have been more and more shark attacks reported around the world.

However, Origins of Fear argues that our fear of sharks goes back much further than that. The episode looks at the various myths and legends that have surrounded sharks throughout history. Many cultures have seen them as evil or demonic creatures, with the ability to control the weather and cause shipwrecks. The Greeks and Romans believed that sharks were sent by the gods as punishment for wrongdoings. Even today, some Pacific islanders view sharks as divine beings that are to be respected and appeased.

The episode also explores the impact that humans have had on shark populations around the world. From the use of shark fin soup in Chinese cuisine to the indiscriminate killing of sharks for sport or to protect fishing grounds, humans have had a devastating impact on these animals. As a result, many shark species are now threatened with extinction, including the great white shark, which is one of the focuses of this episode.

Origins of Fear brings together experts from a range of different fields, including marine biologists, conservationists, and shark attack survivors. Through their interviews, we gain a deeper understanding of the ecology and behavior of sharks, as well as the cultural and psychological factors that have shaped our relationship with them. Overall, the episode provides a fascinating insight into one of the world's most misunderstood creatures, and sets the scene for what promises to be an engaging and thought-provoking series.