The Great to The Empress, these five period dramas cannot be missed

Period dramas hold a special place in the heart of Romance lovers, especially those who enjoy watching Regency and Gilded age dramas. From gorgeous, and often strange and elaborate costumes, to lavish feasts and magnificent sets, historical reimaginings often make viewers wish they lived in ’em. If you are one such viewer, then these five period dramas are a must-watch.

The Great

This alternate historical comedy is a splendid satirical rendition that is loosely based on the rise of Catherine Great, as the all-powerful monarch of Russia. Described by Hulu as “anti-historical,” the series starring Elle Fanning and Nicholas Hoult, is of three seasons. Streaming first in 2020, the black comedy hilariously portrays the marriage between Emperor Peter III and Catherine the Great, with the latter focusing on a ‘coupe’ to kill her depraved and unworthy husband, in order to reign unchallenged and alive.

Bridgerton

Bridgerton is a Netflix hit series based on the titular book series by Julia Quinn, adapting each season to each book and as well as every Bridgerton sibling’s love story. As Shondaland’s first scripted show for Netflix, the Regency-era drama has broken records and garnered a massive following due to its costume, set design, performance, and direction. The first and second season followed the struggle and triumph of the love stories of Daphne and Duke Simon, and Anthony and Kate Sharma, as they navigate the perilous waters of the London ton.

The Empress

This 2022 German drama series is based on the life of the Empress of Austria, Elisabeth, played by Devrim Lingnau, and her marriage to Emperor Franz Joseph, essayed by Philip Froissant. This Netflix series explores the story of a teenage Elisabeth’s love affair with her sister’s intended fiancé, and their marriage which displeased several members of the Vienna court as well as her own family. How Elisabeth navigates the perilous political waters while keeping her love intact, is what the series focuses on.

The Gilded Age

This HBO series traces the story of a young woman’s debut in the 1882 New York City social scene, along with the prominent conflict of the age, a tussle between the newly rich Russells and the generationally rich Rhijn-Brook family. Written by Julian Fellowes, The Gilded Age does not forget to include the daily struggles and prejudice faced by the servantile class, as well as the African American upper classes.

Dickinson

This comedy drama, starring Hailee Steinfeld as the iconic poet Emily Dickinson, streamed for three seasons on Apple TV. With over thirty episodes and three seasons, the anachronistic yet appealing series explores the young poet’s relationships with her family, friends, and society, as well as with her art and her sexual identity. It also offers a fascinating insight into the political, literary and cultural ambience of her age.