For the second time Open University academics have been working with programme makers for the BBC on the latest exciting finds in Pompeii: The New Dig, House of Treasures.<\/p>\n
The broadcast is due to air on Monday 20 January at 9pm on BBC Two and iPlayer. It will show the results of an archaeological excavation that reveals a peaceful and opulent dwelling \u2013 one of the most glamorous found in Pompeii.<\/p>\n
This programme continues to unveil new aspects of the story of the horror residents would have experienced as the volcano erupted in 79CE through the drama of the dig and stylised fresco-inspired animations.<\/p>\n
Behind the scenes Professor of Archaeology Phil Perkins and Roman archaeologist Dr Emma-Jayne Graham, a Senior Lecturer in Classical Studies at the OU, were the consultants for the programme.<\/p>\n
In helping to bring life to the ruins in the episode, the pair were able to advise on aspects of the film to ensure it was an authentic representation.<\/p>\n
In the broadcast, you can see what would have been a luxurious and recently renovated home at the time of the eruption, incorporating a sumptuous private bathhouse with a large plunge pool and elaborate wall paintings, possibly owned by Pompeiian big-wig and local politician Aulus Rustius Verus.<\/p>\n
Emma-Jayne said:<\/p>\n
\u201cDespite all the incredible opulence, for me one of the most exciting things the dig revealed was the boiler room where water was heated for the private baths, complete with its original system of lead pipes looking almost as good as new.<\/em><\/p>\n
\u201cThis dig offers a chance to see the extreme opulence of the lives of some Pompeiians, while also providing a glimpse behind the scenes at some of the things that made this lifestyle possible.\u201d<\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n
How the upper class lived<\/h2>\n
Phil said:<\/p>\n
\u201cThe excavation has revealed incredibly well-preserved remains including wall paintings and the intact roof of a gymnasium, which presented a significant challenge for the excavators to uncover and preserve.\u201d<\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n
Viewers can see archaeologists at work as extraordinary new finds come to light. This episode builds a picture of the upper-class life enjoyed by the owners – in contrast to the living conditions of the enslaved workers in the nextdoor bakery and laundry, which previous episodes have highlighted.<\/p>\n
This series was commissioned by Broadcast and Partnerships<\/a> and is supported by Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences with particular relevance to:<\/em><\/p>\n
Q85 | BA (Honours) Classical Studies | Open University<\/a><\/p>\n