I have seen this programme when it was aired in Britian some time ago and found it fascinating and informative. It was not even strange to see a woman who, obviously has the passion for the topic like the very liberated women of Sparta were, taking you through what was in the main a very male based society of Sparta. The book by Paul Cartledge of the same name was written as an accompliment to the mini series and as mentioned elsewhere is a good solid imformative read.

Much of the little i know of the Spartan culture is gleened from this programe and accopmpying book with the interest sparked by 'Gates of fire' by Pressfield and an old memory of the 300 standing against the Persians in the film from fifties.

It showed me that Sparta was in many ways a contridiction in terms. A police state that is ruled by tradition and obeidience to it's self. But also a place where it citizens are in many ways equal regardless of sexuality. Strangley democratic in a weird sort of way that Athens would not consider.

If you get a chance to watch it do so it is well worth a look.