Secrets of the Dead: Ultimate Tut

Gr 9 Up—The mystery of one of the most famous pharaohs—Tutankhamen—is the focus of this episode. Using archaeological clues and cutting-edge forensic technology, scientists from many disciplines attempt to piece together Tut's life, death, and burial. Studying the damage to his body, experts hypothesize that the pharaoh was crushed to death under the wheel of a chariot. The hasty burial in a small tomb indicates a plot hatched by his successor to assume power quickly. Geological history is cited to show a flood of the Valley of the Kings that covered the tomb's entrance for thousands of years until its discovery in the 20th century. The story is pieced together through computer animation, still photos from the first discovery of the tomb, scientists in labs, archaeologists in the field, and reenactments. The music, sound and quality, and narration are all topnotch. This is a fascinating program for history fans, though its length may make it impractical for classroom use. Still, viewers will be treated to an example of how our knowledge of ancient history can change over time.—Ryan Henry, Daviess County Public Library, Owensboro, KY