Tom is a huge fan of British television, and we both enjoyed "Downton Abbey," but lately he's found a new program called "Poldark." I think he watches it because Aiden Turner, the main actor, is strikingly handsome.. because the setting is dreary. But Tom explains the difference in the Eras each program was set in, to better understand it (being the English history buff he is):
Tom said: I'm
not surprised that this new Poldark series may seem dark and dreary by
comparison to Downton Abbey; the two series depict two very
different time periods in British history.
ABOUT POLDARK'S TIME:
Poldark
takes place during the late 18th century, a very dark time. King
George III (absolutely batshit crazy) is on the throne. The king was
fighting the American colonies over their independence. In order to pay
for the war, taxes have been raised. The disparity between the rich
and poor classes is heightened. France, at this time, is in total
revolution mode, executing everyone from their aristocratic class. The
disparity between the rich and poor is heightened. So the British
aristocracy are worried about a revolution of their own, and deal with
insurrection with very severe penalties. I
still think the Poldark series is beautifully done up. I love the
scenery, the story lines, and still think Aiden Turner is very easy on
the eyes. ;-)
ABOUT DOWNTON ABBEY'S TIME:
Downton
Abbey, of course, takes place during the Edwardian Era, a period of
relative peace and calm. King Edward encouraged this by throwing lavish
parties, elaborate hunts, womanizing, smoking cigars, and drinking. So
the British aristocracy just followed the example of their king.
Very
stark differences between the two eras.