Very few characters can deliver one-liners that are remembered. There are even fewer who can do it consistently. Violet Crawley, Dowager Countess of Grantham is that character and
Maggie Smith is that actor. I enjoyed every scene she was in because she always offered a certain type of sass that only she could provide. It wasn’t until I watched Downton Abbey: A New Era that realized that I wanted to write a blog dedicated to most her memorable lines. There was one line that really hit home for some reason. That line was: “You don’t need me to tell you that marriage is a novel not a short story filled with plot twists along the way”.
And they are, in no particular order.
“What is a weekend?”
“Don’t be a defeatist dear, it’s very middle class.”
Isobel: “How you hate to be wrong.” Violet: “I wouldn’t know, I’m not familiar with the sensation.”
“At my age, one must ration one’s excitement.”
“I’m so looking forward to seeing your mother again. When I’m with her, I’m reminded of the virtues of the English.”
Isobel: “Servants are human beings too.” Violet: “Yes. But preferably only on their days off.”
Isobel: “You take everything as a compliment.” Violet: “I advise you to do the same, it saves many an awkward moment.”
Countess Violet: “You are quite wonderful the way you see room for improvement wherever you look. I never knew such reforming zeal.” Mrs. Crawley: “I take that as a compliment.” Countess Violet: “I must’ve said it wrong.”
Isobel: And you’re an expert in the matter? Dowager: I am an expert in every matter.
“Sarcasm is the lowest form of wit.”
Lord Grantham: “Let’s not argue.” Dowager: “I never argue. I explain.”
Isobel: “Oh Violet. After all these years you still astonish me.” Dowager: “Oh good, I’m glad I’m a revelation and not a disappointment.”
“Stop that noise, I can’t hear myself die.”
Edith: “I suppose Cousin Isobel is entitled to put up an argument.”
Dowager: “Of course, she is. She’s just not entitled to win it.”
“That’s life, isn’t? Getting past the unexpected, and perhaps learning from it.”
I want to share that I secretly love Downton Abbey and Violet is my favorite. Great post. ❤️