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The Barchester Chronicles

The Barchester Chronicles, a BBC miniseries, is adapted from two mid-19th century novels by Anthony Trollope. When a crusade against the Church of England's practice of self-enrichment misfires, scandal taints the cozy community of Barchester when their local church becomes the object of a scathing report about the use of church funds. Consequently, an honorable middle-aged clergyman (Donald Pleasence) is forced into moral crisis and a conflict with his son-in-law, a pompous archdeacon (Nigel Hawthorne) and his youngest daughter's beloved (David Gwillim). The arrival of a new bishop (Clive Swift), his domineering wife (Geraldine McEwan), and a devious chaplain (Alan Rickman) - who may be hiding secrets - add to the dramatic scheming and complex power struggles among a colorful cast of characters.

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Cast & Crew See All

Donald Pleasence
Septimus Harding
Janet Maw
Eleanor
Nigel Hawthorne
Dr. Grantly

Season 1 Episode Guide See All

Episode 1

Part One

Rev. Septimus Harding is much-loved in Barchester, perhaps the most beloved citizen in the county. In addition to the work at his church, which includes a superb choir, he is also Warden of a local hospital where a group of elderly gentlemen reside and receive a small stipend from the will of a benefactor who died some 400 years ago. Dr. John Bold has been tasked to look into this will to determine if its wishes are being correctly applied. He is particularly concerned the Rev. Harding is in receipt of an annual stipend of £800 per year - a considerable increase in the original amount owing to a vast increase in the value of the property - while its residents receive only 1s6d per day. The results of Bold's investigations figure prominently in a newspaper article denouncing the practices of the Church of England. Rev. Harding takes all of the criticism in his stride, even beginning to wonder if his remuneration might in fact be excessive. His daughter Eleanor however does not and any hope that John Bold may have had of marrying the girl have seemingly come to an end.

Where to Watch

Awards

  • 1983 - BAFTA TV Award - Best Drama Series/Serial - nominated
  • 1983 - BAFTA TV Award - Best Design - winner
  • 1983 - BAFTA TV Award - Best Video Lighting - nominated
  • 1983 - BAFTA TV Award - Best Make Up - nominated

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