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TV tonight: what history warns us about being on the brink of disaster

Could the British Museum’s artefacts hold answers for our problem-plagued society? Plus: behind the Glastonbury ticket scam scandal. Here’s what to watch this evening

TV tonight: what history warns us about being on the brink of disaster

Civilisations: Rise and Fall 9pm, BBC TwoAs the world hurtles towards oblivion, what did the great civilisations that came before us do when on the brink of disaster? This four-part history-buff series gains access to the British Museum in London and top experts for answers. It starts with Rome, using artefacts to trace its downfall: from the eye-popping head of Augustus to a terracotta theatre mask that evoked a barbarian with a ponytail (“Romans don’t wear man buns”). Hollie Richardson Inside the World’s Most Luxurious Motorhomes 8pm, Channel 4With its automatic sliding door, 732 sq ft interior, roof deck and £30,000 bed, the Marchi EleMMent Palazzo Superior (just five in existence) pushes motorhome design “into the realm of science fiction”. Plus, we meet the young couple who sold their mansion to live in a bespoke, quartz-bedecked £1m recreational vehicle full-time. Ali Catterall Celebrity Scam Interceptors 8.30pm, BBC OneAmanda Holden’s name and face were used to con victims out of thousands of pounds. Now, she has teamed up with the Scam Interceptors for a special episode to mark BBC Scam Week. The star will track real-time frauds by hacking with remote access – and then help to confront the scammers. HR University Challenge 8.30pm, BBC TwoThe annual battle of the brains continues, and with another pair of teams making their second appearance in the series, we’re starting to get a sense of this year’s strong contenders. In this round-of-16 tie, Bristol and Warwick universities face off with a quarter-final spot on the line. Amol Rajan asks the questions. Phil Harrison Fake Friend: The Ticket Scammer 9pm, BBC Three “After we left school Miles was selling some Glastonbury tickets. He probably realised it was a great way to make money …” This documentary follows claims about a Somerset local selling hundreds of tickets for last year’s festival – only none of the customers received them. It digs deep into the story, speaking with friends, alleged victims and those involved. HR Leonard and Hungry Paul 10pm, BBC TwoIn the finale of this endearing Julia Roberts-narrated series, Leonard (Alex Lawther) faces another disappointment at work – only this time he summons some self-respect in response. Hungry Paul (Laurie Kynaston) sets up a Quiet Club, reminding us that it’s possible to build a good life. And there’s no need to be loud about it. Ellen E Jones

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