Manor House (Edwardian Country House) - Episode 3/6

[sult78]

go on strike !!!.. tell them to do it them selfs.. go on .. do one !!!

[bumcheeks101]

I dont really understand. Surely if you wanna see your family just leave the programme and fucking go home lol it doesnt make any sense.

[blondemobile]

The ladies maid is just like on Downton Abbey, tattling on the lower servants and causing discord!

[frant1a]

Man, there's not a lot of love for the servants here, is there? It doesn't matter if they knew what they were getting into before they did the show or not; the fact is they're working 15+ hours a day, seven days a week, doing loathsome chores for very little in return. Nobody raised in a modern first world country could be expected to thrive living the life of a servant.

There's a difference between being intellectually aware of an impending workload and being -ready- for it.

[MsScarlett62]

In fact, the servants are making me so mad, I can't watch this programme anymore, which is really sad. I love the Edwardian era and I would have loved to have been given the opportunity to work in this house. :-(

[MsScarlett62]

Did the people who took the parts of servants realise their roles beforehand? Why the hell are they all moaning about doing their jobs? Its not called '21st Century Country House' Have they never watched Upstairs, Downstairs?!  Idiots!!!

[lindydivaus]

I have a Grand Rapids carpet sweeper; it works very well indeed, as does the homemade copper polish.

The thing that many watchers don't seem to understand is that the idea of this was to live life *as it was* in the Edwardian era, not as it would be if fair. It's difficult to wrap one's mind around such a concept in this day and age, especially for very young people who are accustomed to being the center of attention.

[itachisaysusuck]

Wow, that's hilarious.

The youngest son had to come and defend his dear daddy in the comments of youtube video. Heaven forbid someone says there opinion on the internet, am I right?

[Jason198261]

Did the higher ranking servants get to ride in a carriage?

[Jason198261]

"Hear, hear" to Mezziemez!

[theoko0707]

"I don't suppose I'm the servant type..."  Well, nobody is...it was a horrible, oppressive system.

[ameliaarose95]

HA! GUY OLLIF COOPER WAS HERE LADIES AND GENTLEMEN! His father really was annoying to witness in the programme though, whereas Kenny the hall boy was fuckable ;) I would

[UsurperDunamis]

I would just flip off Sir John and tell him to kiss me bum~!

[artist45]

Sir John "...benevolent eye...." my ass.

[artist45]

I think, given the size of the house and the amount of duties to be done, there should have been more staff. Also, the family should have tried to be more aware of the hardships of the staff. They seemed quite oblivious of how hard people were working to run their home....and quite content in that oblivion.

[spiffilyiffy]

Rob's rant, especially the bit about the mad french chef, made me laugh so hard...

[aishakafeel]

A free person doesn't believe in what others do, doesn't live like they want them to live, doesn't see beauty where other see it, but sees the beauty by their own definition... Free person is an individualist and a non-conformist. It doesn't imply automatically breaking off all the rules, of course, it even shouldn't. We are not to be anarchists... But - it means to be an AUTHENTIC PERSON, a true human being... This is my philosophy. :-) Greetings from Poland... ;-)

[aishakafeel]

We have lost all that human values for the sake of a big nothing - an empty space of our lives that many simply cannot bear anymore and they try desperately to fill it with rubbish served by media that is but a brainwashing and killing the human soul and dignity in a person, who, unsatisfied, eventually takes their own life... This is so sad, indeed. That is the price we are paying for our ''freedom''... which is but another conformist slavery. Truly free individual doesn't do what others do...

[aishakafeel]

This is my opinion-we cannot say that people had worse back then and now we live more dignified life or vice-versa, since we have to do with all the same problems that the humanity had to do with since the civilisation was born...Nevertheless,we should be grateful that we nowadays do have more oportunities and more freedom,yet-the price we pay for that,is greater than all the benefits of modern lifestyle-we have lost the true sense of beauty,the innocence of our hearts-and-the sense of justice.

[aishakafeel]

- as hundred years ago... Not only in the Third World countries, but even in big European cities, many people are actually homeless or starving, or both... The rich ones still look down upon the poor and strict etiquette rules are practised at royal courts. I am not completely against etiquette at all, but only against some parts of it that might be simply useless and sometimes even ridiculous. And nowadays too, people still die from diseases without a cure.So, what has really changed to better?

[aishakafeel]

No times were better or worse. We cannot say that the past was better or the past was worse than the present. Modernity or history, life hasn't changed at all - in certain way, it did, of course - yet, if we look at life in general, through different eras, it was pretty much the same: in every times, there were wars, poverty, diseases, inequality etc. Those things have not disappeared completely, nor have they decreased significantly. The poor live sometimes in the very same conditions as before

[aishakafeel]

- we do not judge anyone's heart, since we can't know what people's true intentions are - but, we only say that it was common to follow norms and rules in all times, all societies, not only then, but in other eras as well, so it is nowadays - the conformism and lack of individualism that made some people act like machines, doing something only because they had no choice but to do what they were expected to do... Today it is no better than 100 years ago, indeed. Only in a different manner.

[aishakafeel]

The charity work was simply popular, even if those people really believed that the wealthy have an obligation to support the needy. It would be ridiculous to speak about charity and kindness to the poor while having one's own servants dying from an ilness and not even being bothered - simply dismissing them to hire their replacement... That was not very human, nor very pious at all... So, unfortunately, sincerity of actions was always in question, so it is nowadays. But, we are not to judge -

[aishakafeel]

The charitable work they were suppossed to do, was nothing but a passtime for a rich woman who was bored at home and couldn't work for money because she didn't even need that, she had no household duties except giving orders to the servants, and perhaps she did the charity work just because it was fashionable and it would be to promote herself in the society or - to just buy herself peace of mind that way. Rarely, it was out of sincere intention to help and share... Sometimes.

[aishakafeel]

... then take that 4 million pounds and give it to 400 people, how much everyone in need would receive? Perhaps, it would save someone's life... And you would still have your 4 million pounds left, that's pretty much enough to life a quite comfortable life with all its lavishness and luxury, so you wouldn't be compromising almost anything, provided you have a constant source of income apart from the sold estate... ;* So...? That is what I would do, if I was a millionaire - share my wealth...;-)

[aishakafeel]

As he said in this episode - take 8 million pounds worth estate, sell it and divide that money to 8 million people - I think if you do that, and it would be 1 million pounds for each 1 million people, which would be - here I guess, I'm not a mathematician ;* - oh, dear... that doesn't make sense, that would be adequately 1000-1000, 100-100, 1 pound per person...? ;/- BUT - if you divide it to half and then...

[aishakafeel]

One more thing, that prooves one thing - the wealthier you are, the less of a human you are in terms of standard requirements and social relations. I have observed that rich people consider unacceptable standards of life that poor people or even middle class people would consider more than a luxury. The more you have - the more you want... This is certainly a bad thing, but unfortunately, greed and decadence exist since this world has been created... ;*

[aishakafeel]

The protocol was not the same for everyone. Life at a royal court was indeed strictly ruled by the etiquette and servants might be as miserable as they are pictured here. But, outside the royal court and some aristocrates' courts such as this one in this project, especially in the cities, servants lived way easier life and were treated in a better and more equal manner. Less wealthy aristocracy was more human and friendly to their servants. That is the truth. Bye! ;-)

[aishakafeel]

Life was not that hard for servants in small manor houses in the cities. They were considered humans. There were even marriages between wealthy aristocrates and their housemaids sometimes, although it was not very common, since it was not well seen in the society. The upper class consisted of rich commoners, as well as not as rich aristocracy. Many aristocrates were actually completely against the etiquette. And the etiquette of the court was even stricter than outside the palace.

[aishakafeel]

The time off when needed would be granted by the lady of the house upon application directly from a servant who needed permission to go out. If a servant was ill, there would be replacement, but the servant would return to their duties when they recovered, if they recovered. They were paid for their work and they did not have that much to do in a city manor which was smaller and so, easier to keep, thus, they were usually off after it was cleaned and the meals were cooked. Life was not

[aishakafeel]

The city manor houses' servants were perhaps the cook, one or two maids to clean and do the household chores, a lady's maid probably, a chauffeur, one or two male servants for heavier jobs such as to take care of the horses and carriage in times before cars when horse carriages were used - and that were all servants. The etiquette wasn't that strict, either. Of course, there was etiquette, but the servants could actually speak to their masters in person and they had time off when they needed it.

[aishakafeel]

In the end of 19th century already servants of wealthy upper class made up of nobility that apart from their family wealth, also started working in business, particularly having to do with buying and selling estates or making additional money out of their own lands, and those rich yet working nobility for whom work was much of a passtime than a necesity, usually lived in cities and towns, even if they had country manors - their servants in city manor houses were less and they had a better life.

[tstlkevanilla]

@aishakafeel Jesus Christ shut up already!

[aishakafeel]

... and the rest of aristocracy used to live in much smaller houses, having less servants who were treated more like family members. There wasn't such a strict etiquette. It would probably be considered rude nowadays if a maid ''made herself invisible'' to avoid incomodating the lady of the house by her presence, turning her back on. Back in time, perhaps it was different. Yet, even wealthy upper class already in Victorian era, was much more human when it comes to servants...

[aishakafeel]

Well, they should know what the servants' life was like when they were signing up for the project... And now they have a problem... But let's be reasonable. This is not a manor house that most nobility usually lived in, only the very very wealthy who were not so many, and they would have more staff there. The rest of aristocracy couldn't even afford such a house and estate, since it's rather a palace for the royalty than a manor house, it's size is that of a palace...

[ensignr]

Those who complain about Sir John should understand he's the one who's most accurately portraying his role as he should.

[PeriodDramaBBCFan]

I cant stand Sir John...He ruins the show for me. I still love the show though.

[LeahWalentosky]

It shows how lucky the volunteers have it compared to the life of real Edwardians servants.

Rebecca: I feel previldge to have this experance.

Mrs. Winny: Well, good for you

[jparker59able]

Would the staff actually be able to sit and help them from the left over dinner party? Probably not. Maybe after the table was cleared and everything moved back downstairs?

[Single4ever4lovesake]

Snitches get stitches!

[uliejagibson]

I know the work is hard but really what did they expect? Did they not look up any historical information on thier roles before going? Many servants did not work thier jobs becasue they enjoyed it. It was what they had grown up to expect and would most likely have been thankful to have a job yes they may have wanted a better one but the reality was a better one was unluckly to be easy to get and in the end they needed the job to live. There was no other choice.

[LeahWalentosky]

The scullary maid is the base of the house.

They should of set up a schadule so not all of them have their 1/2 day off at the same time

[LeahWalentosky]

The scullary maid is the base of the house

[drwho534]

I really enjoyed this insight into how life might have been back then, everyone did an excellent job in their portrayals considering it wasn't easy especially for the downstairs staff....hardwork is something most of us today have no idea about. I would think it's almost impossible for most modern day types to suddenly find themselves in this setting of authority, hierarchy and discipline......qualities sadly lacking today. I would like to know what effect this has had on each of their lives.

[julesreverie]

What months does the English summer(or coming out season) take place?

[Mediatresse]

@soltaira I think that's very easy to say when you haven't been working 16 hour days on your hands and knees everyday. Oh yeah, they're volunteers.

[tisakongouseki]

There were Sundays half-day off for servants during the Victorian era. Did it change during the Edwardian era? Anybody knows?

[Roseblight]

@tisakongouseki Without labour rights I think there weren't any guarantees, especially for the lower-ranking staff.

[karmastray]

of course the staff couldn't hack it. A bunch of privileged white westerners? No way are they gonna be able to work as hard as servants had to 100 years ago. Now, it'd be a different thing if you hired people from the third world to fill staff positions. Trust me, they would complete their tasks minus the drama. We in the west are soft.

[sax2003]

i HAAAAAAAAAAAATE that little boy and his annoying voice! man i need to meet the back hand of some stricky nanny! precotious brat!

[UsurperDunamis]

I love the fat one's idea! I'll be the first to support it by getting her drunk and banging her!!

[SoleIntention]

I couldn't help but smile when Mrs. Davies saw her family and bounced with joy. :)

[SoleIntention]

@soltaira

I agree. It seems as though none of them realized how hard it would be! They should have done some research and prepared.

[BrounClan]

No pioneering spirit amongst the lower servants. My mother and grandmother cooked without electricity catering for over the family and 100 shearers per day, breakfast, morning tea, dinner, afternoon tea and supper. Separating milk, making butter, I think it's hilarious that they're so soft, especially when they signed up for the task in the first place. What did they think staff did in the Edwardian Era?

[ginaraquel]

I had to laugh at her comment "It's really brought out the best in his personality." I'd hate to see the worst.

[ginaraquel]

@soltaira They probably should have watched Upstairs/Downstairs and Remains of the Day before taking this on. A life in service was not joyful.

[boiledhooker]

I wonder how many Mexicans would show up if they did this show in America...

[aneal138]

5:20 I love how Butler keeps such a straight face. Priceless.

[druniver]

@soltaira you are right, howecer it also perfectly shows, what happens within a group, that is being pressed down. I would be quite sure, that such an oppression-system does effectively call for rebellious reactions of the participants. And that in many houses in those times, despite a restricting regime, there were lots of battles taking place in the household

[gaffneyal]

Just goes to show the attitude difference in people of this time, and back then. The gratefulness, the hardworking...etc..

[katarinavalencia1113]

sir john is prick

but it would be probably like that in edwardian times

[katarinavalencia1113]

i love to have cgarlie as my servant

[rosemsmunoz]

ummm is it me or is the family kind of conservative and getting pompous. They seem very in keeping with the status quo.

[furrantee]

*snort* I'm sorry but that megaphone of MiLadies at 46:49 is too funny! I've never seen one with a mouth piece before. Looks a bit like a gas mask meets snorkel don't you think?

[lazenbear]

Even if you do volunteer for this program you really can't understand what it is like until you are there. There is also not enough servants for a house that size. Plus they probably chose people because they make good TV. I think the most interesting thing is how the upperclass people have really developed a sense of entitlement.

[deionc]

the lower staff take a mile when they are given an inch. It really gets on my nerves that they don't follow the program to the fullest. THEY VOLUNTEERED FOR THIS!!!!!!

[MrsPoodle78]

The cook is creepy. There, I said it.

[mezziemez]

Sir John is a pompous arse!

[furrantee]

@mezziemez I'd say everyone 'above stairs' is acting rather pompus. 'Sir' John says if he was a servant he'd have to be the butler. 'MiLady' says that her ladies maid, even while putting her stockings on for her is "loving every minute of it." Its a state of mind alright, and they're just deluding themselves since all the tension is being kept 'below stairs'. As long as they have clean clothes, fancy food and someone to wait on them hand and foot, who care what's really going on eh? Let's Party

[furrantee]

@mezziemez I'd say everyone 'above stairs' is acting rather pompus. 'Sir' John says if he was a servant he'd have to be the butler. 'MiLady' says that her ladies maid, even while putting her stockings on for her is "loving every minute of it." Its a state of mind alright, and they're just deluding themselves since all the tension is being kept 'below stairs'. As long as they have clean clothes, fancy food and someone to wait on them hand and foot, who care what's really going on eh? Let's Party!

[trinapinks]

@mezziemez he is suppose to be a pompous arse, at least he is playing his part to a tee, the lower staff are not playing their parts they are acting like spoiled brats, they signed up for this project no one forced them into it, so they should act the part.

[OlliffCooperGuy]

@mezziemez This is Guy Olliff-Cooper. My father is not a "pompous arse". I would appreciate it if you would refrain from insulting a member of my family on the internet when you have absolutely no knowledge of the man you are referring to. I can assure you that, outside of this environment, my father is a kind, generous, caring man. His character in this series is the result of a genuine effort to stick to the aim of the project; to experience life as the Edwardians would have.

[mezziemez]

@OlliffCooperGuy lol oh dear well 21 other people seem to agree with me (and from interviews many of the cast from the show did too) so perhaps there is a small morsel of truth in it after all. Your whole family went 'back in time' to experience life as it was in the Edwardian age, to be "genuine" as you say, and yet it seems the rest of you were able to manage to still be Edwardian without the pomposity ...except one. Funny that. A character is something one cannot 'fake' for weeks on end.

[OlliffCooperGuy]

@mezziemez You seem to have missed the point that I was making. The fact that 21 people who, like yourself, have no idea about how the show actually functioned, agree with you, does not help your point whatsoever. It is only natural that the staff would vent there frustration towards my father who was the obvious target by dint of his station as head of the household, and was thus forced to make unpopular decisions.

[vampireofhorror82]

@OlliffCooperGuy I think your father played his part beautifully, and I do not see him as a "pompous arse" at all.

[UsurperDunamis]

@OlliffCooperGuy Which in truth is to make him look like a pompous arse :P sooooooo take it as a compliment to the character he's portraying then! Vile and loathsome as that character may be-Victoria, rest her soul, was probably rolling all over in her grave throughout the entire Edwardian age.

[LeahWalentosky]

@mezziemez He's playing the role. I don't think he's pompous at all, he gave them time off when they never would of got time off back then. Plus, in real life he is a manager, so he was use to following the employ-employer bondery. This was that in super charge.

[UsurperDunamis]

@mezziemez Pardon my ignorance messir, but I do believe that's the point, to make that man into a pompous arse :P

[premiumsilverette]

not enough tristan

[kaunas88]

I am not a leftist but seeing the conditions of the workers who are basically slaves makes me feel sympathetic for the workers and socialism back them. The bulter is right. It will be a struggle until the end because people today will not put up with the conditions of 1904.

[truediabolique69]

Antonia should do well to do some extra work so that she may lose some weight off her frame!

[iamwerido]

Kenny is so cute! i just wanna give him a hug...

[nikku13]

With all the houses the biggest problem is that you cant that the 21st century out of the people. Sometimes i wonder what people thought they were signing up for.

[truediabolique69]

@nikku13 They apparently did not take the project very seriously as perhaps no one would initially.

[moosegeek123]

Please check my channel for other episodes in this series. If you’re enjoying this, there are several other “House” series available on my channel as well! Enjoy!