*Warning: contains spoilers!*
I’ve maintained a longtime enthusiasm for period dramas, from superb showcases of Britain’s 20th-century history like The Crown to colorful, multi-character affairs like Bridgerton. The ornamental gowns, explosive emotions, and rich historical context accompanying these shows provide me with a valuable education on bygone eras in addition to an enticing escape. While I never watched Downton Abbey when it first came out and I’m a little behind the curve, I’ve spent the last few weeks devouring all six captivating seasons, becoming ever more attached to the Crawley family and their servants with each episode.
What I love about this show is that it captures the conversations, aspirations, and politics among Downton Abbey’s servants just as effectively as it focuses on the noble family whom they serve. Without spreading itself too thin, the show unearths the ramifications of social change among a variety of characters and communities. How can the rigid hierarchy accompanying a British lordship adapt with the passage of time and the upheaval of society? This question is, in fact, ever-applicable to the world we live in, where change is constant and everyone must accept this change.
In no particular order, here are a few of my favorite moments from Downton Abbey—some significant, some subtle.
When Sybil helps Gwen find secretary jobs
This is a true indicator of Sybil’s ability to stretch beyond the blissful ignorance that often accompanies a noble upbringing. Without any regard to the class barriers separate them, she throws her heart into helping Gwen achieve the career advancement she wants. I have so much appreciation for Sybil’s golden heart, but even more appreciation for Gwen’s courage in recognizing that staying in the service industry—though many would aspire to work in the house of Lord Grantham—is not a future she envisions for herself. Of course, we come to see later in the show that service comes to lack the prestige and security it once had, so Sybil and Gwen can be thought of as forward-thinking and ambitious even early in the series.
Mrs. Hughes’ life-changing decision
Mrs. Hughes’s choice to reject her past lover’s proposal and remain at Downton is a choice that is not “life-changing” in the traditional sense, but “life-affirming.” Against the tides of change that are brewing at the individual level as well as the societal level, she opts to remain right where she is, believing that a career at Downton and a rekindled romance cannot coexist. Watching her turn this man down against the deflated backdrop of the packed-up fair is painful, but this show is nothing if not incredible in its continuity and character development. Later on, we will see that Mrs. Hughes discovers that personal happiness and commitment to service can indeed function in tandem. This decision is simply the prelude to a story of change and personal growth.
Carson comforts Lady Mary
Of course, Carson has his favorites, and despite Lady Mary’s general coldness, he has a wonderful ability to detect her vulnerability and resilience in a way that no one else can. Their relationship is a reflection of Carson’s humanity—he isn’t just a stern butler, but a father figure to one of the women he serves—and Lady Mary’s humanity as well. She is able to open up to Carson when she can’t open up to the strict, socially conscious members of her family.
Thomas Barrow invests in a wounded soldier
Thomas Barrow is mainly known as a scheming snake who will do anything for his own benefit, especially if it’s at the expense of his fellow servants. However, this small and underrated interaction he has with a soldier during the unusual circumstances of wartime hints at his ability to care for others in times of crisis. He becomes fixated on lifting this soldier’s spirits and encouraging him to persevere, even though the soldier feels that his blindness has turned the world against him. Even Mr. Barrow proves to be a complex and dynamic character.
The Dowager Countess and Mrs. Crawley play cards
Despite these two headstrong women’s ongoing rivalry, Mrs. Crawley is as devoted to Countess Grantham as Countess Grantham is devoted to the “old ways.” In this scene, when Mrs. Crawley has just nursed Countess Grantham through a severe health crisis, we can sense Countess Grantham’s acknowledgement of their budding friendship. What a beautiful moment!
Lady Mary gets down n’ dirty with the pigs
It was so refreshing to see Lady Mary step off her high horse and dive into the mud to save her family’s prized investment. Humility and hard work look great on her!
These are just a few of my favorite Downton Abbey moments…but of course, there are too many to count! Now, on to the movie…and rewatching!
