The Best of Violet: Why the Dowager is an absolute cracker

Violet Crawley, Dowager Countess of Grantham, is undoubtedly one of the most iconic characters on the hit British television series, Downton Abbey. Her quick wit, dry humor, and sharp tongue make her a fan favorite, and her scenes are often some of the most memorable in the show. In this blog post, I will explain why Violet is my favorite character on Downton Abbey.

First and foremost, Violet is a force to be reckoned with. Despite being in her 70s, she is sharp-minded and unafraid to speak her mind. She is often the voice of reason in times of crisis and is not afraid to take charge when the situation demands it.

Her wit and humor are also a major reason why she is so beloved by fans. Her one-liners and sarcastic remarks are often delivered with impeccable timing, and her quips are some of the most memorable lines in the show. She has a dry sense of humor that is both charming and cutting, and her clever retorts often leave other characters speechless.

Another reason why I love Violet is her dedication to her family. Despite being from an older generation, she is fiercely protective of her loved ones and will stop at nothing to ensure their safety and happiness. She is a doting grandmother to her grandchildren and is always looking out for their best interests. Her relationship with Isobel Crawley is also a highlight of the show, as the two women have a deep and loving bond. But they also make fun of each other and are often at loggerheads too.

Finally, I appreciate Violet's traditional values and her dedication to upholding the traditions of her class. While her beliefs may seem outdated to some, her adherence to the social norms of her time is a testament to her strength and resilience. She is proud of her heritage and is unapologetic about her place in society.

Here are some of her most famous dialogues I absolutely love:

"What is a 'weekend'?": In the first season, Violet is introduced to the concept of a weekend and is completely baffled by it. This line has since become one of her most iconic and memorable moments on the show.
"I'm a woman, Mary. I can be as contrary as I choose.": Violet is not one to be told what to do and makes it clear that she will make her own decisions.
"I'm not a romantic, but even I concede that the heart does not exist solely for the purpose of pumping blood.": Violet may not be a romantic, but she is not immune to the power of love. This line is a perfect example of her dry humor and ability to make a point with just a few words.
"I do think a woman's place is eventually in the home, but I see no harm in her having some fun before she gets there.": Violet is a traditionalist, but she is not afraid to challenge societal norms when it suits her. This line is a testament to her belief in the importance of women's independence and autonomy.
"You are a woman with a brain and reasonable ability. Stop whining and find something to do.": Violet is not one to tolerate self-pity or idleness. This line is a reminder that women are capable of achieving great things and should not be content to simply sit around and wait for someone else to take care of them.

In conclusion, Violet Crawley is my favorite character on Downton Abbey for a multitude of reasons. Her wit, humor, and sharp tongue make her a fan favorite, while her dedication to her family and adherence to tradition make her a complex and fascinating character. She is a true force of nature and a testament to the strength and resilience of women of her generation.