Saturday, March 17, 2012

Review: Downton Abbey

My students did a unit on reviews a couple of months ago, and I'm going to try one now. 

The television show Downton Abbey is an addictive English period drama.  It is full of history, colorful characters, and costumes.  The show takes place in a large manor house, Downton Abbey, in the early 1900s.  The plot revolves around the Crowley family and their house servants.  While watching Downton Abbey you are transported to the time right after the turn of the century, where wealthy aristocratic families rule England, and marrying for money is a sport.   In season one the family deals with the loss of the heir apparent of Downton Abbey, when he goes down in the Titanic.  Should Lord Grantham's daughter Mary inherit the manor house?  Not likely.   In season two, Spanish Flu hits the house, and  WWI is as much a character as the Crowleys and servants.  The drama is mouth watering, scandalous, and sometimes back stabbing.  You can catch Downton Abbey  on Masterpiece Theater on PBS.  Although you may have to rent the seasons on DVD.  Season two just finished.  Season three is set to air next fall.  I don't think I can wait that long!  For now I will just have to wonder what is in store for Lady Mary and Matthew, Mr. Bates and Anna, poor Daisy, and the rest of the Downton gang. 

3 comments:

  1. I'm not familiar with this show and your review has me curious. I love historic fiction and then if you add some scandal...I'm going to take a look! Thanks!

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  2. I have heard so much about this show but haven't gotten into the series yet. I'm glad it is popular so I can dip into it again in the future with repeats and catch up.

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  3. I love this show! My mom and sister just introduced me to it. I watched the first season on Hulu but have yet to see the second season... oooo. I can't wait to watch more about Mr. Bates and Anna. They are two of my favorites. I also love seeing the decorations in the house! I am so glad to see that someone else knows and loves this show too!

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