Ep 1. Downton Abbey Season 4, Episode 1

Downton Abbey Season 4, Episode 1, is the highly anticipated first episode of the fourth series of the critically acclaimed British television drama, Downton Abbey. The episode is set in 1922, six months after the tragic death of Matthew Crawley, patriarch of the Crawley family. The episode picks up with the family in mourning as they struggle to come to terms with his loss and adjust to their new way of life.

The episode primarily focuses on Lady Mary Crawley, Matthew's widow, as she goes through a period of grief and tries to move on with her life. She is torn between her love for Matthew and her duty to her family, as she must consider the future of Downton Abbey and the Crawley family lineage.

Meanwhile, the rest of the family is also dealing with the aftermath of Matthew's death. Lord Grantham is struggling with the financial situation of the estate and the need for modernization, while his wife, Lady Grantham, is trying to keep the family together.

The downstairs staff is also going through changes as new faces join the team. Jimmy, a new footman, catches the eye of both Thomas and Lady Mary's maid, Anna. New housemaid, Edna Braithwaite, arrives and attracts the attention of both Tom Branson and Mr. Carson.

The episode also addresses social issues of the time, such as the changing roles of women and the plight of World War I veterans. Lady Edith, the middle Crawley sister, is shown pursuing a new career as a writer and pushing the boundaries of what is expected of women in society. Meanwhile, Bates, the valet, is struggling with the aftermath of his imprisonment and rehabilitation as a war veteran.

Overall, Downton Abbey Season 4, Episode 1 is a captivating and emotional start to the fourth series of the beloved British drama. With new faces, social issues, and the ongoing struggles of the Crawley family, it promises to be another season of intrigue, romance, and drama.