Ep 1. Origins and Identity

The Story of Europe is a new historical documentary series that explores the complex past of the European continent. In season 1 episode 1, titled "Origins and Identity," the show delves into the origins of Europe and how its various peoples developed a sense of identity.

The episode begins by exploring the earliest human migrations into Europe, showing how Homo erectus and Homo neanderthalensis lived in the continent for hundreds of thousands of years before anatomically modern humans arrived around 40,000 years ago. The show traces these early human movements and examines how they influenced the development of various cultures and societies over time.

Moving forward in time, the episode discusses the influence of ancient Greece and Rome on European civilization, highlighting how the Greeks developed many of the foundational principles of Western thought and culture. It also shows how the Romans expanded their empire across much of the continent, leaving a lasting legacy that still influences European architecture, language, and law to this day.

The episode then shifts to the early Middle Ages, when the fall of the Roman Empire plunged Europe into a period of chaos and uncertainty. This was a time when various tribes and peoples competed for power and territory, leading to constant warfare and conflict. The show examines how the various ethnic groups in Europe began to develop a sense of identity during this time, as they struggled to define themselves in relation to their neighbors.

One of the key themes of the episode is the tension between unity and diversity in Europe. While various peoples and cultures developed unique identities and customs, there was also a sense of shared heritage and history that bound them together. This is reflected in the rise of Christianity during the Middle Ages, which provided a common faith and culture for much of the continent.

The episode also touches on the formation of nation-states in Europe, tracing the evolution of political structures from the feudal system of the Middle Ages to the centralized monarchies of the early modern period. It explores how these new political systems reflected changing ideas about identity and citizenship, and how they helped to shape the modern European nation-states that exist today.

Throughout the episode, The Story of Europe uses a mix of stunning visuals, expert commentary, and archival footage to bring Europe's rich and complicated history to life. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about the continent's past, "Origins and Identity" is a fascinating exploration of Europe's complex origins and the many forces that have shaped its identity over the centuries.