Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale is a tribute to its present and past matriarchs

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Over the years since its introduction on television screens in 2010, Downton Abbey has traced the changing roles of women during the early 1900s primarily through the characters of the three Crawley sisters: Lady Mary (Michelle Dockery), Edith (Laura Carmichael), and initially Sybil Crawley (Jessica Brown Findlay).

Women seized men’s roles during the war and continued to assert themselves by working after it ended. They adopted more androgynous styles, cut their hair in unconventional ways, and even fought for the right to inherit property. It has been an exhilarating journey of women’s emancipation from the Roaring Twenties and beyond. Despite being set in a period when women faced oppression, Downton Abbey always seemed progressive at its heart, and this was evident in its final season as well.

In the final chapter, the Crawley clan faces another scandal orchestrated by Mary herself, as headlines declare that she has ended her marriage with Henry Talbot (played by Matthew Goode). This revelation sparks a flurry of gossip and Mary is ostracized from society, being branded an outcast. Her standing becomes so poor that she is even asked to leave the home of a family acquaintance, as their guests find it unbearable to be in the same vicinity as a divorced woman.

In a marked shift from the initial series, Lord Grantham (Hugh Bonneville) expresses anger instead of his usual composure over the unjust termination of a woman’s employment. As people grow weary of the gender disparities they have long tolerated, everyone seems to share this indignation. Interestingly, it is Edith who steps up to support her sister by persuading locals to return to Downton, as acclaimed playwright Noel Coward will be in attendance and Mary’s presence might become more palatable with his arrival.

The once tense sibling rivalry between Edith and Mary has dissipated, giving way to a newfound admiration for each other. Edith employs her influential social standing as a ‘high-ranking lady’ to negotiate the serpent’s silence, safeguarding Mary’s good name. The Crawley sisters are no longer intimidated by scandals; instead, they confront potential turmoil united and refuse to be intimated by those seeking to manipulate their power for ill purposes.

In simpler terms, The Grand Finale honors the significant matriarchs from Downton Abbey, both past and present, for their immense influence on the community and spearheading change. Many of the solutions in the movie arise because the female characters take charge, tackling each obstacle that arises.

In simpler terms, Lady Edith rescues her sister from societal shame, while Cora assists her brother in regaining their mother’s lost fortune and preventing further financial losses. Anna and Mrs Baxter spread the word among the village maids about a notable guest at Downton Abbey, encouraging them to reconsider invitations. Simultaneously, Daisy receives an invitation to join a local committee, teaming up with Isobel to challenge traditional, discriminatory beliefs within the community.

Initially shy and unsure, Daisy has blossomed into a self-assured woman, unafraid to challenge injustice and assert her leadership role as head of the kitchen, preparing to succeed the maternal figure Mrs Patmore (Lesley Nicol). At social gatherings, Mary’s voice is now sought out for her thoughts on Downton’s construction projects, rather than being disregarded by her father or excluded from discussions.

At Downton Abbey, a fresh era has arrived, characterized by influence and leadership from women, whether they be upstairs or downstairs. These strong female characters are actively working towards shattering societal prejudices and challenging oppressive social structures, aiming to foster a more progressive mindset within their community that uplifts everyone, rather than favoring one class over another.

In this new installment, the character of Dame Maggie Smith as Violet is notably missing, having passed away in the previous film. However, the final movie pays homage to both Violet and Smith, showcasing a strong-willed woman known for her witty comebacks and memorable one-liners.

In essence, Downton’s last goodbye is a heartfelt look back at the past sixteen years, a celebration of the women who, despite challenges, have significantly influenced its course. These women now wield power in their homes and communities, earning respect, much like Violet, and unflinchingly standing up against injustices.

Julian Fellowes pens a poignant goodbye to the departed matriarch, Violet, and those who are now tasked with navigating the future. Downton Abbey is entrusted to Mary, a contentedly divorced woman with a son named George, who benefits from the backing of her entire family and the local community.

It’s difficult not to be moved by Mary’s story, as just a decade ago, she wouldn’t have had the freedom to follow her own path. However, she carries the spirit of her grandmother within her, and she’s poised to take charge in the next chapter of Downton Abbey. I can’t help but wonder if we’ll be able to witness this new era…

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2025-09-13 11:34