Secret Knowledge

Through interpretations of some of the archaeological treasures of the Swedish National Museum, Dr Janina Ramirez of Oxford University explores the fascinating wealth of Viking culture and its long-lasting influence on the British Isles.

Lucy Worsley tells the story of Bolsover Castle in Derbyshire. Built in the early 17th century, Bolsover Castle became the pleasure palace of playboy Cavalier and ambitious courtier William Cavendish.

Clemency Burton-Hill indulges in her lifelong passion for the instrument as she explores the mysterious life and lasting influence of Stradivari, through four special violins on display at the Stradivarius exhibition at the Ashmolean.

Artist Lachlan Goudie presents a highly personal documentary, inspired by his father, in which he investigates why witches have cast such a powerful spell over generations of artists.

Tracey Emin offers a uniquely personal insight into the life and work of one of the great artists of the last century.

Art historian Helen Rosslyn investigates the turbulent life of 17th century printmaker and draftsman, Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione, a violent and impetuous man whose pioneering work would influence generations of artists.

To mark 250 years since William Hogarth's death, ceramics expert and self-confessed Hogarth fanatic, Lars Tharp, is determined to solve a mystery that has consumed his personal and professional life - the case of Hogarth's lost pug.

Robert MacFarlane retraces Nan Shepherd's footsteps through the Cairngorms as he examines her forgotten literary masterpiece, `The Living Mountain'.

Jools Holland tells the remarkable story of his father-in-law, Rory McEwen - aristocrat, artist, folk singer and pioneering TV presenter - and the man who brought the Blues to Britain.

Professor Nandini Das reveals the story behind the Cabinet of Curiosities - the original collecting craze that began in Renaissance Europe and which is experiencing a surprising revival in the work of contemporary artists today.

Lauren Child, the author, illustrator and creator of `Charlie & Lola', explores the history of dolls' houses from some of the earliest examples to their modern incarnations.

Writer and classicist Natalie Haynes leads us on a journey into ancient beauty and modern glamour, examining how our current obsession with the body beautiful goes back thousands of years to an era of stunning artistic achievement. With unique access to the British Museum's major exhibition, Hayn...