Downton Parody

If you haven't already seen these videos, they're hilarious!

Parody

Cora: a Study

In this episode of the DA Reflection, we analyze Cora - the lady of Downton Abbey.

We discuss how Cora's American heritage plays into her behavior and attempt to identify her motives. I think it's Cora's soft voice that fools me into thinking she is a soft character. She is actually quite strong, opinionated, determined, and at times devious.

Though she married Robert for a title, and he married her for money, they have developed a charming relationship. They guard each other from what they know about their girls, as well as other matters.

It's hard to tell whose interest Cora has in mind a lot of the time. To that end, I'm looking forward to season 3 when we get to meet her mother! I can only imagine that Cora's back story will unfold like we never imagined when we see her interacting with another American, especially one so close.

Season 1, Episode 2

On this episode, we discuss main plot, subplot lines, and the witty banter that weaves its way throughout episode 2 of season 1 of Downton Abbey. We learn plenty about the members of the Downton household and hear a good deal of one liners and zingers as well.

Matthew is prideful and doesn't want to be changed. His cousins think he is unfit to inherit. Mary thinks he's full of himself. Edith doesn't mind him. Carson is outed as a former performer. Does Gwen have an admirer? Who is Mary's suitor?

Come for the Andromeda metaphor; stay for the Dowager Countess' facial expression at the end of the show.

Let me know what you'd like to discuss next on the podcast, rate us on itunes, like us on facebook, and follow us on twitter.

This could be amazing

It is also sure to be depressing.

Would you watch Downton Abbey at sea?

Season 1, Episode 1

While waiting for Season 3 to get here, here is a recap of season 1, episode 1.

We get introduced to all of the characters here: Robert, Cora, Mary, Edith, Sybil, Bates, Anna, Thomas, O'Brien, Carson, etc. And we learn quite a bit about them.

We learn that Robert is kind and is led by his conscience.
Cora is strong-willed.
Mary is conceited and cold.
Edith is jealous and cruel to Mary.
Sybil is kind and optimistic.
Thomas and O'Brien are cold, Anna is nice, Bates is disadvantaged, and Carson is proud.

All this and more just in the first episode.

Also, if you had a hard time figuring out the heir/entails situation, or just need a reminder, this podcast episode explains it.

If you're just beginning your journey with Downton Abbey, let me know what you think so far. I'd love to address the predictions and first impressions of someone who is fresh to the show.

Thanks for listening!

Season 2, Episode 7

In this podcast episode, we talk about notable events from the season 2 finale of Downton Abbey:

• Thomas back and moving up
• Bates guilty verdict and reprieve
• Edith and Sir Anthony
• Mary and Matthew - together!

We also discuss some unresolved plot lines that the show has asked that we invest emotion into - and then we never hear about them again! I'm sure there are more. Please leave a comment letting me know of others if you think of them.

In the interrum between season 2 and season 3, expect some podcast episodes covering season 1 and earlier season 2 Downton Abbey episodes. Also, I will do some character studies - let me know in a comment who you would like to hear about first!

If you come across a notable Downton Abbey resource (blog, paper doll, etc.), be sure to mention it in a comment so that I can spread the word.

Also, as promised, here is the link to the awesome Downton Abbey paper dolls I mentioned. Enjoy!

Season 2, Episode 6

In this episode of the Downton Abbey Reflection, we discuss episode 6 of season 2.

We start off this episode by asking some big questions that the episode leaves us asking. If you have an opinion on these topics, please let me know by leaving a comment. I'll address your comments on the next episode of the Downton Abbey Reflection.

Big questions:
Will Daisy accept kinship with William's father?
What's going to happen to Thomas?
Will Sybil be happy with Branson?
Is Cora and Robert's marriage in jeopardy?
Will Edith ever marry?
and of course - Will Matthew and Mary end up together?

We then discuss the big issues of the episode. Feel free to chime in.

#1 - Jane and Robert
#2 - Richard's character
#3 - Ethyl and Bryant
#4 - Poor Thomas
#5 - Sybil and Branson
#6 - Did Bates kill Vera?
#7 - O'Brien and Cora
#8 - Mary and Matthew
#9 - Daisy - annoying?
#10 - Anna and Bates - FINALLY!

Lastly, I predict what will happen next on Downton.

Thomas will use Daisy for her money.
Thomas will attempt to take Carson's job.
"Patrick" will come back and shake things up.
Ethyl will return to Downton as a maid.
Carson and Mrs. Hughes... an item?
Bates will be on trial for murder, but will act terribly noble instead of trying to clear his name.

Let me know what you think of my predictions - and add your own!