Bridgerton (Series)

 Bridgerton

          A series from Shondaland. Shonda Rhimes is famous for her show Grey's Anatomy and Scandal. Thus, this show too has its drama, scandal, romance, and subtle comedy. It's absolutely bizarre. I am saying this because it is a weird combination of historical fiction, futuristic expectations, women empowerment, and the definition of love. Additionally, all the characters are exceptionally good looking, as always. The first episode came out on 25th December 2020. There are eight episodes so far. 

          It is historical fiction because it has the essence of Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. The time frame of the show, the society under the spotlight, the social conflicts, and the settings, all depict a modern Pride and Prejudice. Anyone who enjoys a good classical novel will be exhilarated when watching the series.

          It is a futuristic expectation. Well, it may have been a complete futuristic expectation a decade back. However, the benchmark of anti-racism this show has set is remarkable. We are truly yet to achieve this level of equality in society. It almost appears to be utopian in terms of racism and casteism.

          Unlike in most shows where women empowerment seems to be the side theme, this series has made it quite prominent. The society is run by a black queen meanwhile the white king has a mental disorder. A widowed woman has the responsibility of getting seven children married. A sort-of-mother of the Duke (also black) holds quite a power not just in terms of position but also personality. However, this show has still successfully managed to portray the struggles that women had in the 1800s. A woman who had a child before marriage was disgraced. There was a lack of access to contraceptives. The only job of women was to bear children. They couldn't pursue higher studies. They couldn't be independent. As a matter of fact, many contemporary problems have been addressed by this series.  

          Lastly, one of the main themes of Shondaland's productions is love. This story has more than its fair share of love and romance. Some critics have compared it to the Twilight romance. However, I disagree. It may seem to have a hint of Twilight's toxicity but it can't be defined as such. The girl, i.e., Daphne makes choices and decisions with a logic that is far superior to Bella's way. Not only that, Daphne wields a power that Bella's personality lacked. Moreover, the relationship is far more equipped with the time setting in Bridgerton than in Twilight. There is no comparison to make! 

          One of the struggles that were portrayed in accordance with the time in which the story is set is the lack of knowledge of the process of childbirth among women. Women weren't aware of their own biological phenomenon! One of the ways in which it was discovered has been shown in Daphne's journey.

Rating: 3.5/5

(The story was a little stretched in episode 6&7)

Daphne: Do you know how that works?

Anthony: No, why should I know?

Daphne: Because you are older.

*Keeps staring at the stove.*

Daphe: Well, I guess we shall drink cold milk then...

Anthony: Yes, it's warm today anyway.

Shonda Rhimes

The producer of my favorite Grey's Anatomy

and Bridgerton.