Belgravia (TV series) – Knowipedia – The Next Generation of Global Knowledge

**Belgravia (TV series)**

**Definition**
*Belgravia* is a British historical drama television series based on the 2016 novel of the same name by Julian Fellowes. The series, which explores the lives and secrets of upper-class families in 19th-century London, originally aired in 2020.

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# Belgravia (TV series)

**Belgravia** is a British historical drama television series created and written by Julian Fellowes, adapted from his 2016 novel *Belgravia*. The series premiered in 2020 and was produced by Carnival Films for ITV in the United Kingdom and Epix in the United States. Set in the early 19th century, *Belgravia* explores the intricate social dynamics, secrets, and scandals of the upper echelons of London society, focusing on the newly developed affluent district of Belgravia.

The series is notable for its detailed period setting, complex characters, and exploration of themes such as class, power, and family loyalty. It features an ensemble cast including Tamsin Greig, Philip Glenister, Harriet Walter, and Tom Wilkinson, among others. The show received generally positive reviews for its production values, performances, and faithful adaptation of the source material.

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## Background and Development

### Origin and Source Material
*Belgravia* is based on the novel of the same name by Julian Fellowes, who is also known for creating the acclaimed series *Downton Abbey*. The novel was published in 2016 and quickly gained popularity for its rich historical detail and intricate storytelling. Fellowes adapted his own work for television, ensuring a close alignment between the book and the series.

### Production
The television adaptation was commissioned by ITV and Epix, with Carnival Films producing. Filming took place primarily in the United Kingdom, with locations chosen to authentically represent early 19th-century London and its surroundings. The production team paid particular attention to costume design, set decoration, and historical accuracy to immerse viewers in the Regency era.

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## Plot Summary

### Setting
The series is set in the 1810s and 1820s, a period marked by social upheaval and the rise of new wealth in London. The newly developed district of Belgravia serves as the backdrop, symbolizing the aspirations and tensions of the era’s upper class.

### Storyline
*Belgravia* begins on the night of the Battle of Waterloo in 1815, where a chance encounter between two families sets off a chain of events that reverberate through the years. The story follows the Trenchard family, who have risen from modest beginnings to become part of the aristocracy, and the wealthy Brockenhurst family, who are determined to maintain their social dominance.

As secrets from the past threaten to unravel the carefully constructed lives of both families, the series delves into themes of love, betrayal, ambition, and the rigid class structures of the time. The narrative unfolds over several years, revealing how the characters navigate personal and societal challenges.

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## Characters

### Main Characters

– **Evelyn Trenchard** (Tamsin Greig): The matriarch of the Trenchard family, Evelyn is determined to secure her family’s place in high society despite their humble origins.
– **James Trenchard** (Philip Glenister): Evelyn’s husband, whose past actions have significant consequences for the family.
– **Anne Trenchard** (Alice Eve): The eldest daughter of the Trenchards, whose romantic entanglements complicate the family’s social ambitions.
– **Clara Trenchard** (Ella Purnell): The younger Trenchard daughter, whose innocence contrasts with the intrigues around her.
– **Duke of Brockenhurst** (Tom Wilkinson): The powerful patriarch of the Brockenhurst family, representing the established aristocracy.
– **Lady Brockenhurst** (Harriet Walter): The Duke’s wife, who is fiercely protective of her family’s status.

### Supporting Characters
The series features a broad ensemble cast portraying various members of London society, including servants, socialites, and other aristocrats, each contributing to the complex social tapestry.

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## Themes

### Class and Social Mobility
A central theme of *Belgravia* is the tension between old money and new money, exploring how social mobility challenges established hierarchies. The Trenchards’ rise into the aristocracy highlights the fluidity and rigidity of class structures in Regency England.

### Secrets and Scandal
The series emphasizes the impact of hidden pasts and secrets on personal and public lives. The characters’ efforts to conceal or reveal truths drive much of the drama and conflict.

### Family and Loyalty
Family loyalty and the sacrifices made to protect loved ones are recurrent motifs. The series examines how familial bonds can both support and constrain individuals.

### Gender and Power
*Belgravia* also touches on the roles and limitations placed on women in the 19th century, portraying their navigation of societal expectations and personal desires.

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## Production Details

### Writing and Direction
Julian Fellowes served as the primary writer, ensuring the adaptation remained faithful to his novel’s tone and narrative. The series was directed by John Alexander, who brought experience in period dramas to the project.

### Cinematography and Design
The series is noted for its lush cinematography and meticulous production design. The visual style captures the elegance and opulence of Regency London, with detailed costumes and authentic locations enhancing the historical atmosphere.

### Music
The score complements the series’ mood, blending classical influences with dramatic compositions to underscore emotional and narrative developments.

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## Broadcast and Reception

### Release
*Belgravia* premiered on ITV in the United Kingdom in March 2020 and was subsequently released on Epix in the United States. The series consists of six episodes, each approximately one hour in length.

### Critical Reception
The series received generally favorable reviews from critics, who praised its production values, performances, and engaging storytelling. Some reviewers noted its similarities to *Downton Abbey* but appreciated its distinct narrative and setting.

### Audience Response
Viewers responded positively to the series’ blend of romance, intrigue, and historical detail. The show attracted audiences interested in period dramas and fans of Julian Fellowes’ previous work.

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## Legacy and Impact

*Belgravia* reinforced Julian Fellowes’ reputation as a leading creator of historical drama. While it did not continue beyond its initial six episodes, the series contributed to the ongoing popularity of period dramas on television and demonstrated the appeal of adaptations of contemporary historical novels.

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## Cast and Characters

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## Episode Guide

1. **Episode 1** – Introduces the Trenchard and Brockenhurst families and the events surrounding the Battle of Waterloo.
2. **Episode 2** – Explores the social ambitions of the Trenchards and the secrets that threaten their position.
3. **Episode 3** – Romantic entanglements and rivalries intensify.
4. **Episode 4** – Past secrets begin to surface, causing tension.
5. **Episode 5** – Conflicts reach a climax as loyalties are tested.
6. **Episode 6** – Resolutions and consequences for the characters’ actions.

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## Conclusion

*Belgravia* is a richly detailed historical drama that offers insight into the complexities of Regency-era society through the lens of two intertwined families. With strong performances, high production values, and a compelling narrative, the series stands as a notable example of contemporary British period drama.

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**Meta Description:**
*Belgravia* is a 2020 British historical drama series created by Julian Fellowes, depicting the intertwined lives of upper-class families in 19th-century London. The series explores themes of class, secrets, and social ambition in the newly developed district of Belgravia.