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Series · 1983

By the Sword Divided

Created by John HawkesworthSharon MaughanRob Edwards
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By the Sword Divided poster
16 Oct 1983First aired
2Seasons
12BBFC rating
DramaGenre

The series

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.

Episodes

Season 2 · 10 episodes · 1985

  1. Episode 16 Jan 198550m

    Conflicts

    1645: Arnescote Castle, home to the mid-seventeenth century Lacey family, is now in the hands of Parliamentarian John Fletcher and his wife Anne.

  2. Episode 213 Jan 198550m

    Cruel Necessity

    1649: The trial and execution of Charles I seems to have put an end to the Royalist cause.

  3. Episode 320 Jan 198550m

    Cromwell at Arnescote

    1649: The Fletchers receive Oliver Cromwell at Arnescote, unaware of the dangers involved.

  4. Episode 427 Jan 198550m

    Witch Hunt

    1650: Henry Snelling, a witch-finder, arrives at Arnescote Castle and spreads suspicion and distrust that leads to strained relations between John and Anne.

  5. Episode 53 Feb 198550m

    Escape

    1651: King Charles II, defeated at the Battle of Worcester, seeks sanctuary at Arnescote and is treated kindly, before attempting to escape into exile.

  6. Episode 610 Feb 198550m

    Fateful Days

    1653: Arnescote's 'singing boy' Hugh Brandon discovers his true identity and is horrified to discover who his birth mother is.

  7. Episode 717 Feb 198550m

    Forlorn Hope

    1655: Sir Thomas Lacey is involved in an uprising plot to recapture Arnescote Castle. Sir Austin Fletcher stands firm.

  8. Episode 824 Feb 198550m

    The Mailed Fist

    1657: Martin Fletcher is caught brawling with the village boys and Anne is summoned to London by her husband, John, to discuss his suspicions.

  9. Episode 93 Mar 198550m

    Retribution

    1658: Cromwell is on his deathbed. Tom Lacey meets with his twin, Anne, to discuss her affair with Horton and finally proposes to Frances.

  10. Episode 1010 Mar 198550m

    Restoration

    1660: With the restoration of King Charles II, John Fletcher is brought to trial as a regicide. Tom is surprised to be honoured as a Baron by the King.

Cast

Sharon Maughan

Sharon Maughan

Anne Fletcher

Rob Edwards

John Fletcher
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