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The Blackadder
Television series and films


The British television show Blackadder originally aired from 1983 to 1989, and was created by Richard Curtis and Rowan Atkinson. Ben Elton joined as a co-writer from the second series. It is a historical comedy series known for its satirical portrayal of various periods in British history, with each series set in a different historical era. The series features Rowan Atkinson as Edmund Blackadder, a scheming and cynical character who, across the different periods, navigates complex social hierarchies and political intrigues. It is structured around a recurring ensemble cast, including Stephen Fry, Tony Robinson, Miranda Richardson, and Tim McInnerny, who play various supporting roles across the different series. Each series of Blackadder employs a distinct historical backdrop, ranging from the medieval period to the Regency era, using historical settings as a framework for its humour and satire. The series received critical acclaim for its sharp wit, clever writing, and strong performances, particularly highlighting Atkinson’s versatility and the show’s innovative use of historical contexts to explore contemporary themes. In addition to the television series, the show led to several related productions of short films, and has also been adapted into radio plays and stage production.
 
 
Television Series and Episodes
1983 1985 1987 1989
The Black Adder Blackadder II Blackadder III Blackadder Goes Forth
1
'The Foretelling'
'The Bells'
'Dish and Dishonesty'
'Captain Cook'
2
'Born To Be King'
'Head'
'Ink and Incapability'
'Corporal Punishment'
3
'The Archbishop'
'Potato'
'Nob and Nobility'
'Major Star'
'The Queen Of Spain's Beard'
'Money'
'Sense and Senility'
'Private Plane'
5
'Witchsmeller Pursuivant'
'Beer'
'Amy and Amiability'
'General Hospital'
6
'The Black Seal'
'Chains'
'Duel and Duality'
'Goodbyeee'
Television Films
Blackadder's Christmas Carol (1988)
Blackadder, The Cavalier Years (1988)
Blackadder Back & Forth (1999)
A Royal Birthday Celebration (1998)


Sources:
1. The Complete Black Adder [DVD]. Directed by Richard Boden et al. UK: BBC Worldwide Ltd, 2002.
2. M. Lewisohn. The Radio Times Guide to Television Comedy. London: BBC Books, 2003.
   

 


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