Season 1

1. Babel

2011-09-25 · 60m

In this first episode, Stephen seeks to uncover the origins of human language and how and why we are the only species on the planet to have this gift.

2. Identity

2011-10-02 · 60m

What is it that defines us? Stephen argues that above all, it is the way we speak. Be it a national language, a regional dialect or even class variation - we interpret and define ourselves through our language.

3. Uses and Abuses

2011-10-09 · 60m

This programme looks at the ways language is used and abused. While not everyone approves of 'bad' language, Stephen learns that swearing plays an important part in human communication the world over.

4. Spreading the Word

2011-10-16 · 60m

In this programme, Stephen Fry explores 'the written word'. Writing is a great invention - making it possible to communicate across space and time. Without writing we would have no history and very little technology.

5. The Power and the Glory

2011-10-23 · 60m

In this programme, Stephen Fry celebrates storytelling. It has been with us as long as language itself and as a species, we love to tell our stories. This desire to both entertain and explain has resulted in the flowering of language to describe every aspect of the human condition.