After a few months of intense historical research and fieldwork for my articles -more about that in future posts- I’ve decided I need a break from pure, factual history and add some fiction in the mix. Hopefully, something good. Here’s a list of the series I’m going to watch in the coming months. Not sure I’ll be able to post reviews about all of them, so if there’s anything you’d like me to talk about, please do let me know.
- Black Sails -I’m sure you’ve heard about this award-winning series set in the golden years of piracy. It is et in 1715, the former British colony of New Providence Island is now lawless territory, controlled by the most notorious pirate captains in history, including the most feared among them –Captain Flint. If it sounds awesome it’s because it promises to be as such. There are already four seasons out there, and I can’t wait 🙂
[Where to watch: Amazon Prime]
- The Last Kingdom – I am, somehow, less excited about this British historical fiction television series based on Bernard Cornwell’s The Saxon Stories series of novels. However, from what I’ve heard, it is somehow historically convincing and with some compelling scenes, so I’m going to give it a try. Two seasons so far, so it should be relatively quick.
[Where to watch: Netflix]
- Vikings – Again medieval settings, and again a historical drama drawn from real personages. This one is Ragnar, one of the best-known legendary Norse heroes, which become king by successful raids into England. After Ragnar’s death, the later seasons follow the fortunes of his sons -so far in six seasons.
[Where to watch: History channel]
- Peaky Blinders – This is the only ‘recent’ (so to speak) drama in terms of historical setting. This series is based upon the exploits of the historical criminal gang. In 1919 Birmingham, England, leader Tommy Shelby (the talented Cillian Murphy) and his gang look to do anything to move up in the world.
[Where to watch: BBC 2]
Any further suggestion for me? Just let me know!
I keep hearing enthusiastic comments about Vikings but so far I’ve missed most of it, becoming aware of this series only while the third (or was it the fourth?) season was airing, so I will have to wait for a re-run, but this time I intend to watch from the start! 🙂
I look forward to your thoughts about it! 🙂
I’ve heard good things about Peaky Blinders — such an odd title, makes one curious to know where it came from. I’m hooked on “Poldark” which is running in the U.S. on PBS. You can watch it online at PBS.org I think, under the Masterpiece Theater section. It’s set in Cornwall in the late 18th century, when Ross Poldark returns from fighting in the Colonies (our Revolutionary War) to disruptions in love, life, family, and financial fortunes. It has one of the best villains I’ve seen in ages — he sets my teeth on edge just thinking about him. Looking forward to the 4th season this fall — I think the first 3 should be available at PBS.org.
Thanks so much for the suggestion! I’ll try to find who distributes it in the Uk!