This series sets out to tell the story of British History in sixteen parts (8 now and 8 in the spring). In the first part it whipped through from pre-Roman times up until the foundation of the Saxon state, but that episode was really a bit of a taster. The real story in the program begins (as some would say Modern English History begins) with the Norman Conquest.

This is one of those programs that becomes an instant classic, and it is not hard to understand why: Schama, the narrator, is teaching history how it is meant to be taught: facts, battles, heroes andd villains. Rather than the instant-revisionism, so popular on most TV history in this country, he comes from something of a traditionalist background, defending the theory that King Harold was killed by an arrow in the eye for example.

The BBC have recreated battle scenes from history and the actors chosen to read various historical texts, for once seem to have the right voices.

If you haven't seen either of the first two episodes don't worry, it doesn't matter. If you enjoy history watch this program, and if you thought you hated history, give this program a go as it really is fantastic.

It is on on BBC2 on Wednesday nights.