What I’m Watching: Downton Abbey

Downton Abbey: Season 5, Episode 4 (B+)

When something gets stirred up on this show, it just keeps on building until it boils over and explodes. We’re still talking about Edith’s aggressive godmotherhood, Mary’s impending engagement to any one of her suitors, Violet is spending more time with her Russian would-be beau, Mrs. Patmore is upset about her nephew not being honored in the war memorial, the death of the rapist valet isn’t going away, and Tom’s dear friend is all about angering Robert as much as she possibly can. More news on what may have happened to Michael isn’t promising, and Edith is going to spiral downwards with nothing positive to hold on to in her life. Mary is getting annoying again, weighing her options so publicly with each of the men who want her and seemingly intent on never deciding. It’s unfortunate to see Carson and Mrs. Hughes get such delight from tormenting Mosley by insisting upon treating him as the first footman, and it’s a good thing that he’s the one being given all the works since Thomas is obviously working out some more severe personal problems. Anna being seen in London does not bode well, even if Bates didn’t have anything to do with the murder. Mrs. Hughes and Anna should really come clean with Carson since, though he wouldn’t want to tell a lie, he would be a good ally for them. Robert calling up Daisy and Mrs. Patmore to discuss her teacher’s negative influences was embarrassing, and Violet’s delight at the whole thing was extremely amusing. I like the fact that Isobel got an unexpectedly romantic proposal, since she is probably the show’s purest character and it’s good to see her earn some deserving attention and affection from someone else.