Mary Beard delivers a personal introduction to Kenneth Clark’s landmark 1969 series, Civilisation, which became one of the most acclaimed and influential programmes ever made, bringing art history to the audiences of millions both in the UK and, notably, in America too. Here, Mary describes the programme’s influence on her as a young girl and how it helped set her on the journey that led to her own highly successful career. She also considers the series from a 21st-century perspective, highlighting the changes that have occurred in the world of academic history since it was first transmitted and revealing how Clark’s conclusions - and even his much-praised performances in front of the camera - can still divide critics and historians to this day.