David MacCaulay transforms his book on the building of a fictitious cathedral into a half-animated, half documentary explanation of how great cathedrals were constructed, and why.
MacCaulay and his rather superfluous, but easy on the eye, co-host, are very welcoming. MacCaulay's calm voice is pleasant for learners of all ages. All teachers should have such an attitude. His co-host's heavy accent, unfortunately, is occasionally difficult.
MacCaulay is an architectural expert, not Walt Disney. In the "documentary" section he has no difficulty explaining (with simple illustrations), for instance, the need for flying buttresses and how the medieval builders solved a problem with an answer that was both functional and beautiful, inventing an iconic style we think of as typically "Gothic." Then he leaves the animated sections to explain, say, gargoyles (simply, waterspouts). The animated sections are helped along by great actors (Derek Jacobi, Brian Blessed).
Most of the focus is on major French cathedrals.
I'm no Francophile, but I have to admit that country has the most representative cathedrals. All the shots he shows of the cathedrals are beautiful. And if you've never seen Chartres, be prepared for a shock. The first time I saw that angle on Chartres Cathedral (on another program) it took my breath away.
This show is simple enough for almost anyone to understand how those great medieval artworks were erected. It's more educative than entertaining; but it is entertaining.
MacCaulay has also done informative shows called "Castle," "Pyramid," "Roman City" and "Building Big." If you enjoy "Cathedral" check out the others.
