Ep 2. Downton Abbey 6: Episode 2
- January 10, 2016
In season 46, episode 2 of Masterpiece, fans of the beloved period drama Downton Abbey are in for a treat with the second episode of the show's sixth and final season. Set in the early 1920s, Downton Abbey follows the lives of an aristocratic British family and their servants as they navigate the shifting social and political landscape of the era.
Episode 2 picks up where the premiere left off, with the Crawley family still reeling from the loss of Sybil. Lady Mary, in particular, is struggling to come to terms with the death of her younger sister and the responsibility that now falls on her shoulders as the heir to the estate. Meanwhile, Lady Edith is busy juggling her job at a London magazine and her secret love child, while the Dowager Countess (played by the indomitable Maggie Smith) is as sharp-tongued and feisty as ever.
The theme of change continues to permeate the episode, both on a personal and societal level. The Roaring Twenties are in full swing, and the younger generation is eager to embrace new freedoms and lifestyles. Lady Rose is living her best life in London, dancing the Charleston with her boyfriend Freddie, while Tom Branson struggles with his place in the aristocratic world of the Crawleys. The servants, too, are dealing with change as new technology threatens their way of life.
However, amidst all this upheaval, some things remain constant. The romance between Anna and Mr. Bates continues to be a bright spot in the show, and Carson and Mrs. Hughes grapple with their growing relationship. And, as always, there are plenty of twists and turns to keep viewers on their toes. The arrival of a new character adds intrigue to the mix, while a major event threatens to upend the Crawleys' way of life.
Overall, fans of Downton Abbey will not be disappointed by this episode. The stunning costumes and set design transport viewers back to another era, while the sharp writing and expert acting bring the characters to life like never before. As the show gears up for its final season, episode 2 proves that there is still plenty of drama and heart to be found at Downton Abbey.
