The Mystique of "Downton Abbey"

A lot of people are shaking their heads over the phenomenal popularity of Masterpiece Theatre's mini-series, "Downtown Abbey." Granted, it would be fair to brand it as a high class soap opera,. It is that, but  much more. Why does it work so well that millions of viewers arrange their schedules so as not to miss a signle episode?

May I suggest the answer lies in one word - Excellence.

From the genius of the multi-facted script to the perfect casting, the photography, the settings, the costumes, every detail reflects attention to craft. With style and grace the characters struggle with the changing world around them, reveal their own flaws and sometimes achieve nobility, whether above or below stairs.

What's not to like?