The series was a historical drama set during the mid 17th century in the Stuart Era, dealing with the impact of the English Civil War on the fictional Lacey family, made up of both Royalist and Parliamentarian supporters. It follows the family as it is torn apart by the conflicting and changing loyalties of the war, as families were during that time, and the defeat of the Royalist forces at the end of the First English Civil War. Series two covers the second and third civil wars and the eventual Restoration of the Monarchy. The last episodes sees the surviving members of the family (from both sides of the divide) witness the arrival of Charles II on a visit to the ancestral Lacey home.
BY THE SWORD DIVIDED is one of the finest BBC series ever produced–historically quite detailed, yet filled with the passions, fears, and hatreds that certainly possessed the English people during the period 1645-1660. For those addicted to intelligently produced series, for those interested in English history, and for those willing to experience something quite different from the run-of-the-mill “historical” drama these days, try this series. It’s in TWO parts, the first leading up to the defeat of King Charles I, and the second part until the Restoration. – Amazon reviewer
Starring Sharon Maughan, Andrew MacLachlan, Lucy Aston, Tim Bentinck, Rob Edwards.
Shown on PBS Masterpiece Theatre.
Note: Arnescote Castle depicted in the series is filmed at Rockingham Castle which at the time of the English Civil War was a Royalist family’s home. So that lends something to the authenticity of the setting. This listing is for a Region 2. DVD.