Downton Abbey's Popularity: Reflections of a Fantasy in American Culture

The TV series Downton Abbey has captured the hearts of many in the United States, sparking discussions about the nature of American society and its progression towards aristocratic structures. However, the popularity of this series is more about the entertainment and fantasy it provides, rather than a imminent return to the feudal aristocracy of the past.

Historical Context and American Dreams

People in the United States have a long-standing affection for the image of British nobility and royalty, particularly when it comes to the idea of landed aristocracy and titled ranks. This affection often extends to fascination with the romantic elements of the British social hierarchy, as depicted in Downton Abbey.

It's important to note that this romanticism does not translate into a desire for actual feudal rule. John Steinbeck's famous (or infamous) quote about Americans seeing themselves as “temporarily embarrassed millionaires” reflects a common sentiment: many in the U.S. imagine themselves as potential aristocrats, often based on the success of their ancestors. This kind of social fantasy props up the idea that anyone can achieve a life of luxury and privilege, even if it only exists in the realm of fiction.

Popularity Beyond Dragons and Warriors

The popularity of Downton Abbey in the United States cuts deeper than a simple fascination with dragons and distant wars. The series taps into a broader tendency in American culture to appreciate fictional depictions of a lavish, romantic past, without a desire for the actual social structure of the era. Series like Game of Thrones also reflect this fascination with epic tales of power and conflict, yet Downton Abbey maintains its popularity through its human drama and the nuances of British aristocratic life.

The Enduring Appeal of Upstairs, Downstairs

Interestingly, the appeal of Downton Abbey isn't a new phenomenon. In the 1970s, audiences were similarly captivated by Upstairs, Downstairs, another BBC mini-series that provided a look into life in a British household of the same era. Both series foster a sense of escapism, allowing viewers to engage with historical period dramas in a way that feels both familiar and exotic. The characters, costumes, and settings transport viewers to another time and place, providing a respite from the realities of contemporary life.

The enduring popularity of these series speaks to a broader cultural appetite for social fantasy. They offer a lens through which to examine social hierarchies, class structures, and the human condition, free from the constraints of real-world politics. While the American Revolution precluded the establishment of a feudal aristocracy in the U.S., the appeal of Downton Abbey and similar shows lies in the enduring romanticization of a bygone era, a reminder of a time when societies were clearly defined by rank and privilege.

In conclusion, the popularity of Downton Abbey in the United States is a reflection of the enduring human fascination with social fantasy, rather than a call to return to a feudal past. It is a testament to the power of storytelling to bring us together, to offer us a glimpse into an alternative reality, and to inspire us to imagine a world filled with timeless elegance and intrigue.