That Certain English Charm: Masterpiece’s and Downton Abbey’s Popularity in America

This thesis aims to investigate the success of TV shows presented by Masterpiece (formerly known as Masterpiece Theatre), a drama anthology television series airing British productions in the USA. First, it provides a description of the heritage genre. It examines how the English past is represented in these period dramas and films and how it contributes to a projection of an ideal Englishness and, consequently, to an evocation of sentiments of nostalgia in the audience. Secondly, the focus shifts to Masterpiece. After an overview of the programme’s history and origins, the analysis focuses on the elements that characterise the series, namely the emphasis given to quality television and tradition. In particular, the show caters to American Anglophilia sentiments by employing various elements typical of heritage cinema. Finally, the show Downton Abbey is analysed as a relevant example. The drama displays a number of similarities with other shows presented by Masterpiece and, more importantly, with the heritage genre. For instance, the attention given to historical details and visual spectacle and the portrayal of the upstairs and downstairs characters project a specific image of Englishness. Moreover, the comforting narrative set in the past provides a source of escapism and nostalgia for most viewers. These characteristics are key to its global success, and specifically to the appeal it has on the American audience.