18th Century England

I am not much of a history buff, but I really enjoying watching British movies or TV drama set during the 18th century.  I'm not sure if it's the accent, costumes, or just their way of life during that period that intrigues me.  I especially enjoy watching all the Jane Austen classics, from Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility to Emma.  Yes, I am a helpless romantic! A little less well known Jane Austen novel is called Persuasion and it is perhaps one of my favorite novels of hers.  General plot of Persuasion, from Wikipedia:

More than seven years prior to the events in the novel, Anne Elliot falls in love with a handsome young naval officer named Frederick Wentworth, who is intelligent and ambitious, but poor. Sir Walter, Anne's father and lord of the family estate of Kellynch, and her older sister Elizabeth are dissatisfied with her choice, maintaining that he is not distinguished enough for their family. Her older friend and mentor, Lady Russell, acting in place of Anne's deceased mother, persuades her to break off the match.

Now, aged 27 and still unmarried, Anne re-encounters her former fiancé when his sister and brother-in-law, the Crofts, take out a lease on Kellynch. Wentworth, now a captain, is wealthy from wartime victories in the Royal Navy and from prize-money for capturing enemy ships. However, he has not forgiven Anne for her rejection of him...and he still has hidden feelings for her...

I love the story line!  Women, during this time, only worry about getting married to a notable husband and a distinguished family. So it makes me melt inside when the heroine in the story gets to marry the man of his dreams for love AND wealth! 

Recently, I have been watching another British drama on PBS called, "Downton Abbey."  OMG. I love this show!!!  There is not a single moment in this series that does not make you wanting to see more.  The story details life in a rich family, as well as the butlers and maids who serve them.  Season I is done, and they will show Season II on January 8th on PBS. I can't wait!  Full episodes of Season I are available on pbs-video.org so watch it!!