BBC Four

BBC Four looks at a time when Britain went too far

This autumn, BBC Four explores an age of excess in a season of drama and documentary. The first television adaptation of John Cleland's novel **** Hill, two accompanying documentaries and supporting archive material reveal a world characterised by unrestrained indulgence.

Introducing the autumn schedule, acting BBC Four Controller George Entwistle said:

"As the 18th century unfolds it seems more and more clearly defined by an 'anything goes' atmosphere, perhaps best symbolised by one of the most controversial novels ever written, **** Hill. Our new season looks at the forces which shaped this extraordinary time and asks how far the excess of the period explains the prudery and restraint of the Victorian era that followed.

"I'm delighted to be bringing the first television adaptation of this famous novel to television. Written by Andrew Davies, it has a fabulous cast including Alison Steadman, Samantha Bond and Hugo Speer, alongside newcomer Rebecca Night in the lead role. While missing none of the period's provocative flavour, Andrew's adaptation raises some surprisingly modern questions about what women must do to survive in a male world."