November 14, 2012 by Erin

All Aboard the Downton Train

So, let’s be honest. My posts as of late have been, well, heavy. As if the weight of words and utter loneliness weren’t grave enough topics, I had to go and write about politics. I think we’re all about ready for a lighthearted interlude, and what better way to bring a smile than to write about everyone’s favorite melodrama: Downton Abbey. 

I know, I know. I try to be lighthearted and the best I can come up with is a British period drama. Come on, though—it is a television show. That’s at least sort of shallow. I could’ve written about a Russian novel or the doctrine of Divine Providence, you know. Anyway….

As is true of my experience with most things popular, I got on the Downton Train rather late. A year or so ago I watched the first few episodes with my mom, but decided it was a little too soap-opera-ish for me. Then, on a whim (or possibly under divine inspiration), I picked it back up during Labor Day weekend. I was hooked after episode 5, and in a matter of weeks I’d finished season 2. The emotions I experienced in those few weeks, I can tell you, were varied and acute. I smiled, I sighed, I cried. Don’t even get me started on “Christmas at Downton Abbey”—I feel a little raw just thinking about it. I could talk about Downton for hours, but I’ll spare you the erratic gushing and just tell you about my favorite characters.

Anna I just love Anna. I mean, I want her to be my best friend. I want her to give me boy advice and tell me everything is going to be ok. Tender, strong, and witty, Anna steals the show (IMHO). She just always seems to know what to do—beginning with the sordid Mr. Pamuk incident, it’s clear that Anna is the one you want to call in a pinch. From then on, she just keeps giving us reasons to root for her. Her goodness is almost too good, but I believe her. She’s just so lovely.

Mary Oh Lady Mary, must you always be so tormented? Will you ever be free of the specter of Poor Mr. Pamuk? I was pretty convinced Mary was evil for the first few episodes, but soon I found I liked her in spite of myself. She’s not really a jerk; she just has so many walls, you know? Plus, I like her spunk. The whole Matthew/Mary saga is so painful and so beautiful—I’m just going to be honest and say I feel very invested in that relationship. I secretly think a sleepover with me, Mary, and Anna would be the funnest. I’m just saying we could all be friends.

Mr. Mason I mean really, How wonderful is he? At the risk of getting too deep again, I have to say I find the redemption that comes through his kindness to be beautiful. The relationship that forms between him and Daisy is precious. Gentle, unassuming, intentionally loving—I really don’t think Mr. Mason gets enough press.

And then there’s Branson, who I love despite his socialism, and Mrs. Patmore, whose dry wit makes me laugh out loud. And of course the Dowager Countess is a treasure. Just … just watch it, everyone. Really. You won’t regret it.

And be prepared for an inordinate number of #DowntonAbbey tweets from yours truly when season 3 starts in January.

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Written with: Corrine Bailey Ray, mango Trader Joe’s yogurt, fabulous wool socks.