Downton Abbey

I am not sure if I should confess in a hushed voice or be brazenly unashamed of the fact that I have become seriously wrapped up in the lives of the Crawley family and their household. I only started watching in series 3, then enjoyed it so much that I bought the whole boxed set and watched it all the way through series 1, 2, Christmas episode 2011 and series 3 (for a second time). I then sat down to watch the Christmas episode this year, which we had recorded on our "box".
Just in case you have not watched the Christmas episode, I will not go into details, except to say that I was shocked at the events of that episode!

So why is it such compelling watching? The period details, costume, cars, stately home interiors are just sumptuous. It is so well done with no expense spared to get details right.
In addition, there is a credible mix of characters, all with their faults as well as virtues, and time is given to character development, which is something I always enjoy.
The characters are well acted and have lively scripts. The Dowager Duchess and Isobel Crawley spark off each other in an amusing yet realistic way. Some of Maggie Smith's one-liners are priceless!
The conversations betwen the sisters show both their affection and their frustration with each other, which certainly reflects many families of today. Their personalities are framed by the early 1900s, but they resonate with us in 2013.
I think the thing which I warm to is the feeling that most of the characters are wanting to be better versions of themselves. Their focus on duty to family and community seems old-fashioned, yet strikes a chord. Characters advising others (with the exception perhaps of Miss O'Brien!) encourage tolerance, fair play and forgiveness.
I also like the low key history lesson which takes place, when events of the period affect the family's fortunes.
I guess I should declare a "favourite" character. I like the character of Lord Grantham, an honourable man struggling to come to terms with changes in society and the family, and not always managing to retain his equilibrium, but devoted to his family. I also really like the kindly and humorous character of Mrs Hughes, who tempers the more pernicketty and exacting nature of Mr Carson, the butler.
Of course, I wouldn't be alone in confessing a soft spot for Matthew Crawley, played by Dan Stevens! Every mother would be pleased to have her daughter marry him!  :-)
Well enough of Downton Abbey. We'll have to wait a few months for the next series!