By the Sword Divided (1983)
Synopsis
This classic period drama series follows the fortunes of the aristocratic Lacey family, living peacefully in Arnescote Castle until the onset of the English Civil War in 1640. Sir Martin Lacey, the head of the family, is steadfastly loyal to the King. However the family is torn apart when his eldest daughter Anne weds John Fletcher - son of a merchant family who support the forces of Cromwell.
First Air Date: 1983-10-16
Last Air Date: 1985-03-10
Number of Seasons: 2
Number of Episodes: 20
Created By: John Hawkesworth
Networks: BBC One
Top Cast
- Sharon Maughan as Anne Fletcher
- Andrew MacLachlan as Nathaniel Cropper
- Rob Edwards as John Fletcher
- Tim Bentinck as Sir Thomas Lacey
- Lucy Aston as Lady Lucinda Ferrar
- Eileen Way as Minty
- Rosalie Crutchley as Goodwife Margaret
- Janet Lees-Price as Emma Bowen
- Johanna Myers as Hannah Jackman
- Claire Davenport as Mrs Dumfry
Seasons
None (1983)
No overview available for this season.
Episodes:
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Ep. 1: Gather Ye Rosebuds
There is great excitement surrounding the arrival of John Fletcher at Arnescote Castle. His father and Lord Lacey have a heated discussion about the wedding dowry.
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Ep. 2: This War Without an Enemy
The King dramatically makes several arrests for treason in the House of Commons. While out riding Lucinda meets Prince Rupert on his way to visit Sir Martin.
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Ep. 3: The Sound of Drums
Anne returns to the castle to collect her belongings and has a sad parting with her father. Lord Lacey is badly wounded fighting and a cousin, Susan Protheroe, arrives seeking refuge.
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Ep. 4: A Silver Moon
Lucinda is rude to the King because of her sense of justice - she then embarks on a successful adventure posing as 'Luke' Lacey and redeems herself.
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Ep. 5: The Edge of the Sword
Arnescote is commandeered by Captain Marsh, a Cavalry Officer for Cromwell's Parliament. Sir Martin feels let down by the King and cousin Susan betrays the family.
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Ep. 6: Outrageous Fortune
Dick Skinner returns to Arnescote with tales of pillaging in Swinford. Tom goes there and brings his sister Anne home despite her angry protests. Lucinda receives advice from the King.
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Ep. 7: A Sea of Dangers
Tom is anxious about the castle's security and calls for more diligence. Anne gives birth then bids a sad farewell to Arnescote. Hugh Brandon performs a 'valiant commission' for Sir Martin.
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Ep. 8: Ring of Fire
Arnescote is surrounded and is under siege by the Roundheads. Sam Saltmarsh brings shame on his family by being a turncoat and Susan Protheroe is re-acquainted with Colonel Marsh.
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Ep. 9: Ashes to Ashes
Sir Martin's funeral brings with it more family and political discord. Colonel Marsh is holding Arnescote's inhabitants hostage and the future of the castle is looking grim.
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Ep. 10: Not Peace But a Sword
The Fletchers return to Arnescote as the new owners but life is not as they expected. Cousin Susan gets shocking news from Colonel Marsh. Edward has a plan to get Tom out of the Tower.
Trailers & Videos
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