Austenprose – A Jane Austen Blog

The encore presentation of Cranford concludes tomorrow night at 9:00 pm (check your local listings) January 3rd, 2010 with the third episode on Masterpiece Classic on PBS. Here is a brief synopsis from the good folks at PBS. 

Dr. Harrison formally asks the Reverend Hutton for permission to court Sophy. Meanwhile, Caroline Tomkinson and Mrs. Rose, Dr. Harrison’s housekeeper, are convinced he is in love with them, unbeknownst to the doctor himself. All of Cranford gathers for May Day celebrations, but the day turns scandalous when town residents believe Dr. Harrison has been courting three women. Exposed as a philanderer, he is shunned by the town. Mr. Carter is horrified to discover a secret about Lady Ludlow. He confronts her, resulting in a heated exchange. Sophy returns to Cranford ill with typhoid fever and Dr. Harrison is barred from tending to her. Meanwhile, disaster strikes at the railway works and the injured are taken to Dr. Harrison’s for emergency treatment, his last chance to redeem himself as all of Cranford looks on. 

Cranford was one of favorite bonnet dramas last year, and happily the story continues with Return to Cranford, two new episodes airing on Sundays, January 10th and 17th. This is a highly anticipated new mini-series continues the quaint story of a group of ladies, spinsters and widows, who not only form the backbone of decorum in this small English village, but are the heart and soul of it as well. Dame Judi Dench, Julia McKenzie, Barbara Flynn, Imelda Staunton and Deborah Finley return in their signature roles with many outstanding British actors from the original mini-series. For all of us who didn’t want the first Cranford to end, we will have our wish for two more Sundays at least! 

At the official Cranford website you can check out a full synopsis, cast & credits, a behind the scenes video and watch all three episodes online until January 10, 2010. 

Enjoy!