The following is a list of my favorite tv shows in my favorite genres- period and fantasy. All shows are available on streaming platforms and are highly binge-able! Let me know what your favorite shows are in the comments!
10. The Spanish Princess
This show follows Queen Catherine of Aragon, wife of England's King, Henry VIII. It details a year before their union as well as the first few years of their marriage. While Henry is most infamously known for having six wives - going to such lengths to acquire his second, he created his own religion - this story is solely focused on his first wife. It shows the first years of their marriage as being filled with love, which is why it is so devastating when everything falls apart. Catherine is a strong female lead and finds fulfillment in her role as Queen, often standing in for the King and even commanding battles.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime with STARZ subscription
STARZ, The Spanish Princess
9. Reign
This show details Mary Queen of Scotts and her life in France. The story is very entertaining but is far from historically accurate. It takes a more modern approach to the costuming and musical score - expect Mumford & Sons and animal print dresses. Mary and her ladies maids are very dynamic characters and often make questionable choices, so get ready to yell at your tv screen... It all adds to the fun! This is definitely the most PG show on the list, so feel free to watch in a group.
Where to watch: Netflix
8. Downton Abbey
This story takes place in the 1920s and follows the Crawley family and their English estate, Downton Abbey. What really sets this show apart is the emphasis on the lives of everyone on the abbey, including the butlers and maids. It addresses many issues of the times including politics, class structure and sexuality. In all honesty, the show can often be shocking and is not afraid to kill off characters the audience is attached to - so be warned. The series is so beloved by fans, that it has grown to include two movies, one of which will be released later this year.
Where to Watch: Netflix
BBC, Downton Abbey
7. The Last Kingdom
This show is about Uhtred Ragnarson, the adopted Saxon son of viking Ragnar Lothbrok. It follows Uhtred through his many struggles - his father's murder, identity crises, many lost loves and an innumerable amount of battles. He finds allies in unexpected places and often is unlucky in love with the partners he chooses. There is a steady rotation of characters in this show, which keeps things interesting. Think Game of Thrones, with less... everything.
Where to watch: Netflix
6. The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina
This is a modern, much darker take on Sabrina the Teenage Witch. The series follows Sabrina Spellman, a half human half witch high schooler, managing normal teenage drama in the human world as well as being one of the most powerful witches in her coven. She often finds herself struggling to find balance between the two worlds she lives in - friends, lovers and power pull her in different directions. This show is not for the faint of heart; if you are religious at all, you might feel like taking a bath after watching.
Where to watch: Netflix
5. Carnival Row
This show has everything - forbidden romance(s), class struggles, serial killers... and faeries! The story is about faerie, Vignette, and murder inspector, Rycroft, and their dangerous relationship. It is a chilling and romantic fantasy and gives off major steampunk vibes. The rich history of the faeries and their struggles in the "Burgue" create a compelling storyline for viewers. There is only one season available to watch, however, season two has already wrapped production and is said to be released later this year.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime, Carnival Row
4. Ragnarock
If you like foreign shows, this is the series for you! It takes place in the Norwegian town of Edda, nestled next to a fjord. The dialogue is all in Norwegian but has an English voice-over. It follows the life of socially awkward, high schooler - Magne. He is bigger than everyone else and struggles to read and write. However, he has it over everyone because of one small detail - he may or may not be an ancient god. The story details his journey and the power struggle between giants and gods in the present-day. It tackles issues such as social acceptance, toxic family dynamics and environmental struggles.
Where to watch: Netflix
3. The Witcher
Spot number three goes to Netflix's original, The Witcher. Full disclaimer: this is one you need to pay attention to. I had to watch the first season twice, before I understood and fell in love with the story. It follows the power struggle between humans and elves, the threat of monsters to the realm, and the life of hybrid humans- monster hunters, called witchers and magic wielders, called mages. The first season is told chronologically out of order, focusing on three separate timelines. The best way to watch this show is to research the timelines first, so you are not hopelessly confused. It sounds absurd, but it is worth it!
Where to watch: Netflix
Netflix, The Witcher
2. Outlander
Taking the second highest spot is STARZ's Outlander. This is- in my opinion- the perfect balance of fantasy and historical. The show follows 1950s British war nurse, Claire, as she accidentally transports herself back to 18th century Scotland. Claire's intelligence and quick-thinking saves her from being discovered, as she finds her way through unfamiliar territory. She faces new adventures, adversaries and a truly epic love. There is a slight language barrier in this show, as the characters speak with heavy Scottish accents; subtitles are a must.
Where to watch: Netflix- first 4 seasons, Amazon Prime- All seasons with STARZ subscription
1. Vikings
Taking the number one spot is the History Channel's Vikings. If you couldn't tell by now, I really enjoy Scandinavian dramas. The show has 6 seasons, all available on Amazon Prime. It follows the story of the viking legend, Ragnar Lothbrok and his five warrior sons. It has been applauded for being historically accurate and is a great source for viking history. It dives into many topics including viking lore, religion and battle strategy. It is by far the most violent show included in this list but also one of the richest stories.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime, Hulu
The History Channel, Vikings
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