4 Period TV Series’ Worth Looking Out For

by Ruby Yang

When it comes to mainstream TV, there’s always your standard sitcom, supernatural show, and of course, love-it-or-hate it, reality shows. Although the plots of these shows may vary, they all have one thing in common; they are set in the modern day. While there’s certainly nothing wrong with that, sometimes it’s nice to escape into another era — another world. Fortunately, there are plenty of period TV shows to satisfy this longing. But where does one begin? Which period shows are worth watching? Below is a list of four period TV shows to get you started.

The Paradise

The Victorian Era: The mid to late 19th century was a time filled with traditions and social restrictions, all the while being on the cusp of modernity. It was, in a sense, a world in between two worlds—the past and the present. Set in the 1890s, The Paradise follows this idea with the story of Denise Lovett, a poor country girl who is introduced to the modern, fast-paced and competitive world of The Paradise—the first ever English department store. From love triangles to jealous coworkers, The Paradise is not all what it seems…

Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries

The 1920s: From swinging jazz to glamorous flapper fashions, the 1920s was an era known for living it up—especially for the rich. From lavish parties to opulent houses, these people were filthy rich and no doubt had an enemy or two. Needless to say, murder is looming just around the corner. Thus, when there’s a mystery that needs to be solved, there’s Phryne Fisher, lady detective. Although wealthy, Phryne Fisher is a free spirit who will not be told what to do. In other words, she is no housewife. And so, armed with a pearl-handled pistol, and accompanied by her meek assistant, Dot, Phryne Fisher takes on the crime world with style.

Bomb Girls

The 1940s: Women, for most of history, have always been oppressed. Their sole purpose in life had always been to get married and have children. However, all that would begin to change when World War II called for women to join the war effort though building bombs, sewing parachutes, and so on.  For the first time in their lives, they were liberated—freed from their oppressive lives as child bearers. Bomb Girls gives us a closer look at the story of these women and how they battled sexism while risking their lives for the sake of freedom.

Outlander

1940s to 1700s: Can’t decide on just one era? Set in 1945 and 1743, Outlander follows the story of World War II nurse Claire Beauchamp Randall, who after just beginning to start things anew with her husband, is transported into the 18th century Scotland. With no way back, Claire has no choice but to leave her past, or rather, future self behind and adapt to a new life.