Jacky Hyams

I really enjoyed this. Downton Abbey is a very idealized picture of what life was like. Staff not only didn't openly interact with their employers, they were required to turn and face the wall if they came in contact with their employers. Staff worked an average of 16 hour days. The female staff had to buy their own work uniforms and often had to start working earlier than their male counterparts to afford the drab clothing. They were also paid less than men who had their uniforms provided free.
Still within the first paragragh the author refers to Maggie Smith's character as the 'Duchess' of Gratham. Her late husband was an Earl and so she was The Dowager Countless of Gratham. The author not knowing or understanding that calls into question for me how accuracy of her other info.… (altro)

Adequate history of country house life in the Edwardian era, capitalizing on 'Downton Abbey Fever' on both sides of the Atlantic. DA characters are briefly referenced, but with little specific commentary. If one is looking for a book specific to the television program. You will be disappointed. Likewise, if you are looking for serious social history. At least the ebook version I had failed to have end notes, bibliography or index. Nevertheless, there were entertaining aspects. I particularly enjoyed the minute-by-minute telling of a typical servant's day.… (altro)