7 historical TV series you need to watch
These days, television shows are of the same high-calibre production as blockbuster films, making it only easier to get sucked in to entirely new worlds. And, if you’re an avid reader of historical fiction, there’s never been a better time to turn on the telly. From series based on books to entirely new stories, here are seven must-watch TV shows for any history buff.
1. The Tudors
Set in 16th century England, this drama starring Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Sam Neill, Henry Cavill and more, is a fictionalised retelling of the reign of King Henry VIII of England and his many wives and affairs. Running from 2007 to 2010, the show produced four seasons, 38 episodes and has been nominated for two Golden Globe awards.
2. Poldark
Based on the novels of the same name by Winston Graham, Poldark has become a surprise hit after it debuted in 2015. Starring Aidan Turner as the title character, the show follows a young man who returns to Cornwall after the American War of Independence only to find his world has been changed forever. Season three will premiere later this year.
3. Outlander
Adapted from Diana Gabaldon’s popular book series of the same name, Outlander tells the story of a married WWII nurse who, during a second honeymoon in Scotland, mysteriously finds herself sent back in time from 1945 to the 18th century, where she falls in love with a dashing young Scotsman. Can she get back to her husband and her own time? More importantly, does she want to?
4. The Crown
The newest series on our list, Netflix’s The Crown follows the early years of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign. Starring Claire Foy as Her Majesty and Matt Smith as the Duke of Edinburgh, critics and audiences alike have praised the authenticity of the cast’s performances and the accuracy of the events portrayed.
5. Downton Abbey
It may no longer grace our screens, but Downton Abbey will no doubt be remembered (and re-watched) for years to come. Set before, during and after WWI, this Golden Globe award-winning drama introduced us to the aristocratic Crawley family and their staff, challenging long-held ideas about class, family honour, gender equality and sexuality.
6. Call the Midwife
Based on the memoirs of Jennifer Worth, a British nurse who worked from the 1950s to 1973, Call the Midwife follows the lives of a number of nurses dealing with the after effects of the WWII baby boom and post-war immigration. The series tackled tough issues like miscarriage, abortion, birth defects, alcoholism, sexuality, racism and more. It has just finished its sixth season.
7. A Place to Call Home
Set in rural New South Wales in the period following WWII, this Aussie show starring Marta Dusseldorp, Noni Hazlehurst and Brett Climo tells the story of Sarah Adams, a nurse who has returned to Australia after 20 years abroad and falls in love with an upper-class widower, George. However, George’s mother (played by Hazlehurst) does not approve of the match and will do anything to keep them apart…
How many of these shows have you seen? What other series would you add to the list? Let us know in the comment section below.