Downton Abbey

<p>I like Joanne Froggatt and the Anna character, but I must admit that in general I’ve kinda lost interest in the Anna/Bates story line. Their perpetual string of woes just got to be tiresome.</p>

<p>

They have to have a young, free spirit, to engage in all types of shenanigans. Sybil filled that role, now they need a replacement. </p>

<p>Makes sense. But Sybil was sweet and loveable, and Rose just seems spoiled.</p>

<p>Well, she’s very young – only like 18 or so, right? So far she’s gotten herself into “situations” but someone responsible has always been there to get her out. One of these days, she won’t be able to get out of whatever trouble it is, and then we’ll see some fireworks.</p>

<p>More than sweet and lovable, Sybil was an idealist and determined enough to walk the walk. Rose is just spoiled and frivolous, so far. </p>

<p>Love watching Downton! Wondering what, if any, point there was to Alfred’s experience applying for the Ritz only to be turned down.</p>

<p>Or to Moseley finally agreeing to come back, only to find there was no job.</p>

<p>Daisy is the one who should have applied to the Ritz. Although I suppose it is likely that they would not take women.</p>

<p>re: Moseley, teriwit, I’m wondering if they’re setting the stage for him to commit suicide. Hope not.</p>

<p>Ack!!! That would be terrible!</p>

<p>Well, even while Carson was talking to him about the position, I knew it was premature. Someone should smack Carson. That wasn’t very nice.</p>

<p>Fun piece in the Times on Edith’s clothes. Maybe I should post in the Dressing Young thread!</p>

<p><a href=“The New York Times”>The New York Times;

<p>Interesting. I’m curious about something, though: It mentions that Edith doesn’t have a ladies’ maid. Is that because she’s not a married woman?? </p>

<p>I think it’s because Downton can’t afford another maid. All of downstairs has been grumbling about how short-handed they are.</p>

<p>I noticed that, too. I’m not actually a faithful viewer, but I thought in the early days, the daughters “shared” Anna. None of them were married at that point.</p>

<p>For background on widow’s weeds and the colors…this is why Mary has worn so much purple. (Sorces are non DA – no spoilers)
<a href=“Mourning - Wikipedia”>http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mourning&lt;/a&gt;
<a href=“Paint it Black: Mourning Fashions in the Victorian Age | Adventures in Cemetery Hopping”>http://adventuresincemeteryhopping.■■■■■■■■■■■■■/2013/10/04/paint-it-black-mourning-in-the-victorian-age/&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

<p>I love Edith’s marcelled hair. How did they do that?</p>

<p>I havent seen it lately, but I went to beauty school so long ago that we were tested on our ability to style hair like that. ( use an iron & / or gel & long clips, depending on hair elasticity).</p>

<p>I was wondering about Rose’s purpose for being inserted into Downton. Maybe she will get herself into some form of trouble that will result in Tom Branson saving her and the family from disgrace. Rose will finally see the error of her behavior and become more like Sybil. </p>

<p>I think part of the purpose of Rose is to allow for themes among the family that would otherwise only happen with the young servants. Dancing with a black man? None of the other Granthams would ever dare. She’s also just old enough to be a marriageable alternative for someone who might otherwise take interest in Edith, for instance. Or at least that’s what I think.</p>

<p>Can’t wait to watch tomorrow–thankfully there won’t be anyone in my house insisting on the Super Bowl instead.</p>