Introduction

This drama re-enacts the discoveries in Egypt of the forgotten Italian explorer Giovanni Batista Belzoni. Set in the context of Victorian London in 1862, the drama begins by introducing us to Belzoni’s Great Niece, Antonia, an inquisitive child who discovers some Ancient Egyptian artefacts in her Great Aunt Sarah’s attic. Antonia questions her elderly aunt about the origins of the artefacts and Sarah enjoys telling her about the Egyptian exploits she shared with her beloved husband, Giovanni. Over three episodes we learn about the people of Ancient Egypt – their customs and life – through the experiences of Belzoni who, at the behest of the British Consulate in Egypt, helps to realise the Victorian passion for everything Egyptian. Throughout Sarah’s tales she is anxious that Antonia should retain the memories of her Great Uncle Giovanni, lest the world forget his valuable contributions to Egyptology.