As the far right surges around the globe, what can a new TV series about Mussolini teach us? | Caroline Moorehead

Mussolini : Son of the Century covers just six years in Mussolini ’s life, from his days as a brawling but highly effective journalist in Milan to his assumption of total power.

Joe Wright , better known for his gentle approach and light touch in Pride and Prejudice and Atonement , has produced a series that is loud, provocative and violent.

The miniseries aired in Italy before the UK release, and attracted a great number of viewers, many of them admiring.

In contemporary Italy , Mussolini is never far away.

He has imprinted fascist ideology on to the landscape, stamping his mark on to houses, stadiums and towns.