This is the story of a woman who began as a circus performer and child prostitute, and became Empress of the Eastern Roman Empire. No less remarkable is her husband Justinian, who became emperor. This episode takes you into the heart of Constantinople in the 6th century, where slaves, chariot races, spies, and intrigue are part of an empire in transition. It is also one of the greatest love stories in history.

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The story of Troy has resounded across millennia: the beauty of Helen, the nobility of Hector, and the feats of Achilles have become legend. One man set out to prove that this story was not just legend, it was history. His name was Heinrich Schliemann, and he is an incredibly controversial and deeply eccentric character. He was the man who pursued the history of Troy, and also plundered it. Was he a visionary or a villain? You decide.

Rumi was a 13th century poet and mystic often quoted today. He was born into a world shattered by the Mongol invasions that sent his family fleeing the only home they had known. Along the road we meet Francis of Assisi, the army of the Fifth Crusade, a couple of sultans, and cave dwelling Christians. Rumi will develop his own approach to faith that scandalises religious conservatives and inspires people even centuries after his death. This episode takes you into the surprising world of Rumi and the mystic traditions.