The shape of the world
By: a Granada production ; directed by Patrick Lau ; produced by Simon Berthon
Contributors: Stewart, Patrick, 1940-; Harvey, Richard, 1953-; Granada Productions; Athena (Firm)
Publisher: Athena
Published: 2009
Place of publication: [United States]
Language: eng
Format: [videorecording] /
Number of pages: 102
Subjects: Cartography; History
Other titles: Epic tale of mapping the globe
Description: Episode 1. Heaven and earth: "Ever since  the ancient Babylonians began sketching maps on clay tablets, religion and myth have shaped humanity's view of the world. The Egyptians, Greeks, Chinese, and medieval Christians created their own pictures of this earth--and what lies beyond."

Episode 2. Secrets of the sea: "When overseas trade  for spices and other precious commodities sparked bitter rivalries, charts became instruments of wealth and power. At various times, the Dutch, Portuguese, Venetians, and Spanish used their superior knowledge of the oceans to gain the upper hand."
Notes: Release date: Aug. 4, 2009.

Originally broadcast on PBS in 1991.

Bonus: The chartbusters.

Music composed by Richard Harvey.

Narrator, Patrick Stewart.

Rating: Not rated.

DVD; 4:3 full screen; Dolby digital; stereo.

Subtitled for the deaf and hard of hearing.