As a fan who’s seen more historical dramas than I can count on one hand (and lost count after that), let me tell you, this list is a veritable treasure trove of time-traveling tales! From the roaring 20s to the turbulent 1800s, these series offer a smorgasbord of historical intrigue, romance, and a healthy dose of gender struggles that resonate even today.
Over time, numerous captivating historical drama series have graced our screens. We’re still bitter about the cancellation of the beloved “Anne with an E.
For three consecutive seasons, this series unfolds the tale of Anne, a character inspired by the novel “Anne of Green Gables”. At 13 years old, Anne has endured an unkind childhood at the hands of strangers and institutions. When she is accidentally delivered to the care of Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert on Prince Edward Island, Anne seizes the opportunity and leaves a lasting impact. She enriches their lives as well as those in their small island town.
As a devoted admirer, I’d rephrase it this way: Am I, like Anne, yearning for love and acceptance? Indeed, could she have discovered her niche in life? Perhaps so!
Once you’ve finished the three seasons, if you’re seeking a new series with a focus on LGBTQ narratives, race relations, feminism, and other relevant themes, here are seven shows that could pique your interest to continue exploring these topics further.
Little House on the Prairie
Our discussion begins with the 1970s television show “Little House on the Prairie,” inspired by the “Little House” book series penned by Laura Ingalls Wilder. This show chronicles the life of the Ingalls family during the 1870s, as they manage a farm in Walnut Grove, Minnesota.
In this narrative, we delve into the daily lives of farmers, focusing particularly on the experiences of women during that era, as well as the burgeoning feminist movement leading up to the Suffragettes’ struggle for equality. The tale encompasses themes such as blindness, marital issues, mortality, and retirement.
You can watch Little House on the Prairie on Prime Video and Peacock.
The Buccaneers
Coming next is a contemporary period drama titled “The Buccaneers“. This story unfolds during the 1870s, commencing in America before transitioning to London. Here, audiences will witness an intriguing contrast as characters navigate through the cultural divide between their native American society and the British one.
This piece examines the elite circles of society. Young American women are seeking appropriate spouses, but the London crowd finds their directness and what the British perceive as poor etiquette off-putting.
While there is only one season right now, there is a second coming. The Buccaneers is on Apple TV+.
Alias Grace
Up next is a show inspired by Margaret Atwood’s book with the same title, and it also draws inspiration from actual events that took place in the 19th century.
1843 finds us delving into the narrative of Grace Marks, an Irish immigrant serving as a domestic worker in Upper Canada. Following allegations of murder, she stands trial, is found guilty, and serves a life sentence behind bars. Through her account, we journey through the events leading to this conviction and gain insights into prison life during that era.
Alias Grace is available to stream on Netflix.
Lessons in Chemistry
For our upcoming series, we’ll travel back to the 20th century and delve into a story penned by Bonnie Garmus titled “Lessons in Chemistry“. This tale follows the life of Elizabeth Zott, a chemist who loses her job due to an unplanned pregnancy outside marriage. She subsequently transitions into hosting a cooking show, creatively using this platform to educate women on both culinary arts and chemistry.
Indeed, many men disapproved of their wives pursuing education. This sets the stage for a tale about a woman standing up for her right to present the show according to her vision. She aims to demonstrate to her daughter that opportunities for women were not limited in the 1960s, despite societal norms.
Gentleman Jack
In the 1800s, we find ourselves in the world of “Gentleman Jack,” a series inspired by the true story of Anne Lister. Anne was a landowner residing in Yorkshire, England during 1832. Her mission is to preserve Shibden Hall, but she’s got an unconventional approach – challenging societal norms, restarting coal mining operations, and taking charge herself. She won’t tie the knot with a man, choosing instead to forge her own path.
Indeed, her narrative revolves around her interest in women. Her tale unfolds as we delve into her relationships with her family, staff, and future spouse, all of which are drawn from Anne’s personal journals.
Gentleman Jack is available to stream on Max.
Downton Abbey
As a devoted fan, I can’t help but urge you to revisit the captivating world of Downton Abbey once more. This series offers an enticing blend of narratives that resonate deeply, including a compelling LGBTQ storyline woven seamlessly into the intricate web of staff relationships. The struggle for women to claim land as their own right is another powerful thread, while the lives of men and women from two distinct social classes unfold in a beautifully complex tapestry.
As a gamer immersed in this historical narrative, I find myself transported back to 1912, where the Titanic’s tragic sinking sets the stage for our story. The presumed deceased heir of Downton leaves a vacuum, and the search begins for the next in line. However, Lord Grantham only has daughters, leaving us to wonder who will inherit his vast estate. The enigma deepens as we delve into the life of the eventual male heir, a man with a unique vision for the land that clashes with Lord Grantham’s traditional methods, promising an intriguing twist in the tale.
Downton Abbey is available on Prime Video, BritBox, and Peacock.
Poldark
In our final installment, we’re journeying back to the late 1700s. After the American Revolutionary War, Captain Ross Poldark returns to Cornwall, England, only to discover that his father has passed away and the woman he adores is now married to someone else. What lies ahead for him?
In the story, Ross encounters a maid named Demelza. Will they discover love again, even after their first chances have passed? This question unfolds as he also ponders how to manage his late father’s estate, now under his control.
Poldark is on PBS Masterpiece and Acorn TV.
In this fresh take on the timeless Masterpiece series, Aidan Turner steps into the role of Captain Ross Poldark, a soldier returning home to Cornwall post-American Revolutionary War. Upon his return, he discovers his father has passed and his beloved is on the verge of marrying another man. Produced by Mammoth Screen, this series delivers a thrilling blend of action, excitement, and romance. Alongside Turner, you’ll see Eleanor Tomlinson as servant Demelza, Warren Clarke as Uncle Charles, and Heida Reed as Elizabeth Chenoweth. Robin Ellis, who originally portrayed Ross Poldark four decades ago, reappears in this version as Reverend Halse.
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2024-09-07 13:38