With all the superheroes and modern teen dramas floating around, it can sometimes be hard for history buffs to find a good tv show to invest themselves in, no matter what period they’re interested in. So, here are five of my favourite (slightly fictionalised) historical TV shows to satisfy all my fellow history nerds out there.
5. Sons of Liberty
A three part show broadcast by the History Channel, it tells the story of the American founding fathers from the point of view of Samuel Adams, cousin to the John Adams of 1776 and Hamilton fame. It takes a few liberties with its characters, but overall, it’s a refreshing take on one of the lesser-known founding fathers.
4. Vikings
Also broadcast by History, this show is a huge step away from our previous entry. Currently in its fourth season, it allows us a view into the lives of a little-known people, and their conquering ways. The language and violence might take some getting used to, but the acting supersedes it, as do the amazing sets.
3. Frontier
One of Netflix’s newest ventures in television, and co-produced with the Discovery Channel, this show tells the tale of an 18th Century Canadian fur trader, played by the always amazing Jason Momoa, and the obstacles he encounters due to the British Government across the Atlantic, and to his own ancestry. This show is well-cast, not only in the form of its leading man, and manages to portray a lesser-known period of history in an impressive way.
2. The Tudors
Chronicling the rule of Henry VIII of England, this television series is famous for not shying away from the violence and sexuality of the Tudor period, and each of Henry’s six wives manage to have their own character and personality, while also adhering to the historical view of them. The portrayal of the king by Jonathan Rhys-Meyers is brilliantly done, both angry desperate for approval at the same time, and brings to life a royal court and its intricacies in a sharp and fresh view.
1. Rome
The fact that it was cut after two seasons due to budgetary problems should tell you a bit about this show’s glitz and glamour. Portraying the time of Julius Caesar’s rule over the Roman Empire in the first season, and the time after his assassination in season two, this show is not only brilliantly acted, but the shots and sets will make you wish you lived in Ancient Roman times.
There are a lot more shows out there for us history buffs, but be prepared for some serious dramatisation – it is still show business that we’re talking about!