The shape of the world

About this book

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."