The Barchester Chronicles
The Barchester Chronicles

The Barchester Chronicles

1982TV ShowEnded2 SeasonsEnglish

The Barchester Chronicles is a 1982 BBC television serial produced by Jonathan Powell and dramatised by Alan Plater, based on Anthony Trollope's first two Chronicles of Barsetshire, The Warden (1855) and Barchester Towers (1857). Against the sumptuous background of Peterborough Cathedral and its environs, one is carried into Trollope's world of the intriguing machinations of the clerical establishment of Barchester. Backed by the authenticity of the period detail, the portrayal of all the characters accurately conveys the whole range of human emotions within the stories.

Read Reviews

Insights

IMDb7.8/10
Director: David GilesGenres: Drama, Period Drama

Plot Summary

Set in the fictional cathedral city of Barchester during the mid-19th century, this miniseries chronicles the intricate power struggles and social machinations within the Church of England. The narrative primarily follows the ambitious Bishop Proudie and his domineering wife, Mrs. Proudie, as they attempt to assert their influence and enact reforms. Their efforts often clash with the established clergy and local gentry, leading to a series of dramatic confrontations and personal entanglements.

Critical Reception

The Barchester Chronicles was widely acclaimed for its faithful adaptation of Anthony Trollope's novels, its superb cast, and its detailed recreation of Victorian England. Critics praised its intelligent script, nuanced performances, and the compelling exploration of themes such as ambition, corruption, and social hypocrisy within the church.

What Reviewers Say

  • A masterful and engaging adaptation of classic literature.
  • Nigel Hawthorne's performance as Archdeacon Grantly is a standout.
  • The series brilliantly captures the wit and social commentary of Trollope's work.

Google audience: Audience reception information for Google reviews is not readily available for this older miniseries.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for a BAFTA Award for Best Drama Series.

Fun Fact

The series was filmed on location in and around Salisbury Cathedral, which served as the visual inspiration for the fictional Barchester Cathedral.

AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources

My Review