James May, renowned for his measured approach to motoring, turns his attention to historical figures, starting with the enigmatic Sir Walter Raleigh. This episode examines Raleigh’s complicated legacy, separating fact from fiction and challenging the romanticized image of the Elizabethan explorer.
May’s journey takes him from the hallowed halls of the British Museum to the grandeur of Hampton Court Palace, even venturing into Raleigh’s former prison cell. Along the way, he uncovers a darker side to Raleigh’s story, revealing a man driven by ambition and prone to ruthlessness.
The episode explores Raleigh’s mastery of persuasion, his role in the founding of Virginia, and the less-than-accurate accounts of his discoveries. “James May’s Great Explorers” aims to offer a more nuanced understanding of historical figures, going beyond the textbook narratives to reveal the complicated individuals behind the legends.
James May’s Great Explorers airs Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 9pm on Channel 5.
