Yuck. I couldn’t disagree more. Elizabeth McGovern’s characterization choices for Cora were awful. The weakest link in the whole cast. The choice she made to use her voice that way was the most unfortunate. Of course her character wasn’t helped by the writing. The best part of her character arc was when she couldn’t forgive Robert for siding with that arrogant obstetrician. And why she didn’t banish Robert to another bedroom permanently after his pathetic business decision to invest in one company thus obliterating her fortune was mind boggling. Although not as mind boggling as her blind allegiance to that hateful O’Brien who ultimately killed her unborn baby. Ugh.
Patricia-- ignore the previous comment; your instincts were correct. Cora Crawley, Countess of Grantham, is the emotional heart of Downton Abbey -- the fictional place and the show. She leads with her heart virtually never has a misstep. She understands the rules of society, but treats all servants with kindness. And the actress Elizabeth McGovern plays her to perfection. Violet Crawley/Maggie Smith seems to get all the attention, but Cora is the character I most think holds Downton Abbey together.
@@markmh835 Whatever, gurlfriend. I stand by my comment. Cora WAS a nice and good person, I’ll give her that but wouldn’t say she’s the emotional center of the entire series. It’s very much an ensemble piece.
@@johnboy32064 I disagree. Cora's American background and outlook, and how that influences her daughters' characters and life choices, are pivotal for this show. Otherwise it would just be another British manners drama. She's stellar. Who else could have raised a Mary, Edith, and Sybille. All three characters are completely out of step with their fully British peers and to me they made the show watchable. I love Violet but frankly she's no one I'd want to live with.
Anna is so quick to apologise for name dropping Cora at the restaurant, you helped that woman carry a dead body across the house. Getting to use her name at restaurants is the least you deserve.
I believe Cora doesn't usually get the credit that she deserves. From supporting Robert on the bankruptcy of the Estate, Mrs. Hughes on her health scare and many others and being a wonderful human being with everyone around her...the character is admirable and so well written, not to mention the wonderfully portrayal by Elizabeth McGovern... can't not love Downton ❤️
That offer to Mrs. Hughes during her health scare was a MAJOR concession for the time, with no retirement benefits or health insurance to cover the costs. What Cora did was not usual in households such as Downton. Sick servants wound up in the poorhouse, even those who had served a lifetime in a household. . . . The way Cora handled the news of Robert losing her fortune was also unique. Robert was very fortunate having her as a wife, especially with Cora knowing that Robert had married her, not for love, but for her money. Most women, American or not would not have handled the loss so magnanimously.
McGovern's work in this show is outstanding. It would be very easy for the character of Cora to slip into being either suffocatingly sentimental, or nauseatingly saintly - McGovern always pitches her perfectly.
You are so right. The way she carries herself in the soup line scene followed by her kind help: the acting is subtle and satisfying. I must admit a middle aged crush on Elizabeth McGovern. Those blue eyes are captivating.
Cora had an understated strength and backbone which was unusual for the time period. She gave praise and thanked those who supported the family and expressed loyalty as a sure point of praise
Especially when you consider how painful and infuriating it must have been to hear how her granddaughter, her dead daughter's child, was being treated.
One of my favorite Cora scenes. My eyes still burn during that entire scene. Also loved when she told Mrs. Hughes she would always be taken care if she became ill. It's so many wonderful Cora moments, but these two are favorites.
" Very well. If you can honestly say you have never let a flirtation get out of hand since we married. If you have never given a woman the wrong impression then by all means stay away. Otherwise I expect you in my room tonight." "I'm American- have gun, will travel" Iconic moments from this show! Cora is truly the core of this family.
When comforting Robert in the face of bankruptcy Cora is the epitome of, "She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life."
That was such an odd and potentially historically inaccurate moment. Nellie Melba was an enormous star at the time. I somehow doubt it that a random earl would find it beneath him to dine with her.
@@lalagonegaga Don't know about historical accuracy, but in the series the family tended to look down on artists and intellectuals. When they brought up somebody they knew who was a painter, or a poet, or a writer, they commented on how strange and odd they were.
Her accent! The way she used her height! The way she stared into people’s eyes! Her bubbly personality! This character and actress was hands down amazing and adorable. Her kindness definitely changed me. I recently started and finished this series with the last 3 weeks 💞
Cora promising to get a nurse and make sure that Mrs Hughes was cared for in the event of illness was the sweetest thing ever. She is a loving, loyal person.
Yeah, and she speaks to every adult who isn't a fellow aristocrat as if they were a 5-year-old child. The way she cocks her chin down and to the side and puts on that condescending smile is about as pretentious as it gets. Every once in a while, she throws one of her little tiffs, and you get to see the real person peak out. It's usually when she doesn't get her way, or when she feels like someone has dared to tread on her aristocratic carpet, where only she may walk.
When I Google it, it says season 2 episode 6 but its not on my version (I'm in the U.S. now but first watched it in the UK). Maybe there are additional scenes between the US and UK versions but if you Google it, it pops up saying Season 2 episode 6. I'm bummed I can't find it now. I was an American living in the UK when I first saw it so the line always stuck with me.
You forgot... 1) When she helps her daughter Mary carry the body of Mr. Pamuk back to his room 2) When she consoles her daughter Edith after being jilted at the altar by Sir Anthony 3) When she's saying her final goodbyes to her daughter Sybil upon her death after childbirth. 4) When she discusses the efficiency of a Refrigerator to Mrs. Patmore 5) When she stands up to the Dowager Countess about turning the house into a Convalescence/hospital during the war. 6) When she puts her foot down over the running of the house during the war with Mrs. Crawley. 7) When she talks with Lady Flintshire about caring for Rose while they're away in India. 8) When she scolds O'Brien about her disdain for Matthew Crawley in the servant's hall. 9) As she smiles while silently watching Lady Sybil learn how to cook/bake a cake. 10) As she walks the halls of Downton after seeing Baby Bates, while discussing with Lord Grantham about watching the children grow. (grandchildren that is.)
I love the moment Cora found out about Marigold. She was immediately on Edith's side. Everyone else was only concerned about reputation, but Cora could see that her baby didn't want to lose her baby and immediately went to action to help her keep her.
My favorite Cora Crawley moment was how she handled things when O'Brien told her that Mrs. Patmore and Daisey were stealing food from Downton and selling it out of Lady Crawley's house. Once she found out what was really going on, Cora took over like a boss and in no way was minded to punish Mrs. Patmore and Daisey or the others in any way, but threw in to give assistance to help their cause, even to take charge of the source of the food being given away so as not to cause any conflict with the Army over Army food supplies being mismanaged or pilfered. This may have been an O'Brien attempt at making it up to Cora for causing her to miscarry what was to have been Cora's and Robert's son and heir, but you never know with O'Brien.
There seems to be a recurring theme about them recognizing when they are being manipulated and "turning the tables" in this case quite literally. But also consider how deftly the Violet dealt with her staff when they each tried to maneuver her into action. She seemed to be prepared to flip there tables regardless of the consequences just to prevent being manipulated. Honestly, seeing how many times they spotted attempts at manipulation and shut it down, I am surprised Barrow survived as long as he did.
@@sheilaburns8977 O'Brien was a product of her time. She needed to find any bit of power and control to have an upper hand. That's how you get ahead in service during those times. The last thing anyone needed was to be unemployed back then. It was a death sentence. They did what they did to stay working. Very Pathetic and Sad Times!!
On more than one occasion Cora Crawly represents the moral, human empathy and kindness that is centred in this story. Whilst other characters are sometimes mean and manipulative, she stays within her own good kindness towards both upstairs as well as downstairs. The same goes for Sybill, of whom you can easily say that she is like her mother. Cora is a leader in a matriarch manner without imposing herself too strongly, but a leader with conviction and durable strenght with patience and compassion, she is truly the driving force behind lord Grantham. I could not see any other actress then mrs. Mcgovern in this role, perfectly casted!!
Thank you to whoever put this together. Cora is often overlooked because she was mostly quiet and understated, but these clips are strong reminders of the power she had and the grace and kindness and warmth. Really excellent, thank you!
Cora was a true lady with an open heart. She was fair and strong when necessary. Elizabeth McGovern did a phenomenal job. I love the clip in which she and her daughters won't leave Isabel's house because her maid used to be a lady of the night. Also the one where she loses Lady Sybil, and also the one where she fires that ghastly nanny.
the scene where Sybil dies is so painful to watch, and her reaction is the main reason why. She so desperately clings to her youngest daughter and then she has the hardest time grieving out of all the Crawleys. She's such a class act and the actress does a phenomenal job as you say portraying her
Cora is a representation of all the American women who were rich and courted by broke English nobility. Many of the husband's gambeled or lavishly spent thier wives money till there was no more, then left them. Robert and Cora seem to genuinely care for one another.
For a character actress to be able to pull off loving mother, devoted wife, stern director at the hospital, kind Lady with her servants and more........hats off to Elizabeth McGovern. NOT an easy task to flip to different sides of her inter-dimentional character every week for 6 years....and counting.
2:16 I LOVE what Cora said and how she stood up for herself here. Robert was definitely not clean himself, for he did have an affair with a former housemaid while Cora was sick 🙄
@@mikef5881 He still crossed a major line when he made out with her in his bedroom and they would have taken it further had Bates not interrupted them and he came to his senses. For me that's grounds enough for divorce - the kiss alone!
My favorite line is "don't worry about me I'm an American have gun will travel." It just perfectly contrasts the British and the Americans and shows, in my opinion, why Cora and Robert's marriage worked.
Lots of people on FB don’t care for Elizabeth McGovern playing Cora but I LOVE her in this role ! Kudos to her for doing such a great job. Even though she was their #2 option, I can’t see anyone else in this role.
Cora is one of the kindest character in Downton, and Lady Sybil's goodness is obviously from her. Her only bad thing is what her servants often manipulate her lol
You forgot (Part 2)... * When she forgives and overlooks Baxter's past and allows her to keep her job at Downton * When she eases the tension with Mr. Mosely as he speaks to the Queen * When she tells the Dowager Countess that she's not going to disown her daughter Mary in regards to the Pamuk scandal. * When she stands by Robert's side and holds a napkin to his mouth during his burst ulcer. * As she escorts Lady Rose during her coming out ceremony at the palace. * When she speaks to the Queen to convince the King to not allow Lord Hexam to attend the Royal tour with the Prince of Wales. Just before Lady Edith gives birth to their first child. * When she talks to Daisy about the situation with Mr. Mason
I know you couldn't include everything, but I would have loved to see the very first time in the series when we see Cora in "crisis" mode, after Pamuk's death when she and Mary and Anna decide what to do. Great scenes there.
Not related to the topic but I've been wanting to say this. There were very few scenes that tugged at my heartstrings in this series but two scenes were, one, when Cora and Robert were told Sybil probably would've died no matter what and Cora started sobbing while Robert held her. That sounded real and choked me up. The other is when Mr. Bates walked out into the hall after Mrs. Hughes tells him what happened to Anna. That was a well acted scene when he broke down.
I'm sad to say that I never got around to watching Downtown Abbey as much as I should've. Cora epitomizes a woman who carries herself with grace, tact, compassion and elegance.
Downton Abbey is a wonderful way to escape the here and now, if only for a few hours. Elizabeth McGovern as Cora does a marvelous job, and greatly enhances this wonderful series. ♥
2 more favorite Cora moments... when she shoots down Barrow after Baxter tells her the truth and when she stands up for Mary in the Pamuk scandal to Granny.
Elizabeth McGovern is who attracted me to Downton Abbey. I loved The Scarlet Pimpernel she did with Richard E. Grant (also in Downton Abbey). She was fabulous in that… and fabulous in this! 🎭🎬👏🏻🎁💖
I remember my very first job I was 16..serving very upper class...we were not allowed to eat near their kitchen..well me being young and silly decided to.have a snack only to be caught red handed by a very high up person ..she politely told me off ..then pulled a chair from.a table and told me to sit at the table and eat before I get indigestion..lovley family ..I miss them days .
Cora was absolutely my favorite character in the whole series. Her combination of being American and marrying into a English family with titles. Cora brought her American values, her pioneering blood, and what it means to be a great Lady. She also became a great lady in England. Lady Grantham adapted for her husband to make him proud. She truly loved her husband and didn't care that he lost. "Don't worry about me, I'm an American, have gun will travel". You are being tested. And do you know what they say, my darling? Being tested only makes you stronger. My favorite qoute of hers.
The actor who played the restaurant host did an amazing job, even when he had no lines he managed to say so much even with the tiniest facial expressions, you know an actor is good when you end up disliking his character so much, also I taught myself English ( and I still am ) by watching UK television because that was the only channel in English available in my hometown’s local cable network, so great part of my vocabulary consists in sentences and phrases I learned on tv, not to mention my accent is all over the place depending on the TV program and the part of the UK it was from and one of those phrases is “in a jiffy, in a jiffy” when I say it I always get mixed reaction from people, some laugh and ask how old I am and others just look at me terribly confused LOL
Cora's not even my favorite character (though she's great) but the writers gave her the kindest and most generous actions, on balance, throughout the whole series.
Cora is absolute gold! Robert throwing his little hissy fits makes me smirk. He is lucky to have her! Especially when she's willing to show sympathy after he practically ruined them financially! I always thought the scene in the nursery was truly well written. Prejudice views and racism are the number one reasons why humanity cannot progress as a collective. Like a bird trying to fly with two damaged wings.
The first clip- I've never noticed Cora observing what was going on in the background. I just assumed she was off screen watching it happen. Speaks much about her character. She easily could of ignored the situation but from the start she had their backs.
Years ago, the same happened to me at a very swanky hotel in Paris. I stuck around until they took me down to the lower basement. When I got back to the UK, I discovered that they hadn't charged me for my meal 😊❤ The scene where Lady C helped serve the food, made I cry 😪 A wonderful touch 😊 And that last scene 😪
I really like Cora and seeing how she emotionally matured from the first series to the last. The changes that WW1 brought clearly had a very deep effect on her. I don't know if I believe that the restaurant scene, where she helped Bates and Anna, would have happened before the war. I don't know that she would have even looked away from her table in the first place.
She wouldn't have been in a restaurant at all, most likely. Edith talks about how wild it feels to be eating in a restaurant and that Cora would never let them eat in public except at hotels they were staying in
I honestly can't pin down a single moment where Cora shone the brightest...she lit up the screen whenever she appeared. Brilliant character and brilliant writing.
She was always so soft-spoken but when she needed to be firm-whether it was with Matthews mother,the dowager,the servants,even her husband-she stood firm.She was always The Lady Of The House.
Cora Crawley was just the best person that anyone could ask for. The actress portrayed her perfectly. Style, grace, charisma, she had it all.
Yes i surely agree with u
Yuck. I couldn’t disagree more. Elizabeth McGovern’s characterization choices for Cora were awful. The weakest link in the whole cast. The choice she made to use her voice that way was the most unfortunate. Of course her character wasn’t helped by the writing. The best part of her character arc was when she couldn’t forgive Robert for siding with that arrogant obstetrician. And why she didn’t banish Robert to another bedroom permanently after his pathetic business decision to invest in one company thus obliterating her fortune was mind boggling. Although not as mind boggling as her blind allegiance to that hateful O’Brien who ultimately killed her unborn baby. Ugh.
Patricia-- ignore the previous comment; your instincts were correct. Cora Crawley, Countess of Grantham, is the emotional heart of Downton Abbey -- the fictional place and the show. She leads with her heart virtually never has a misstep. She understands the rules of society, but treats all servants with kindness. And the actress Elizabeth McGovern plays her to perfection. Violet Crawley/Maggie Smith seems to get all the attention, but Cora is the character I most think holds Downton Abbey together.
@@markmh835 Whatever, gurlfriend. I stand by my comment. Cora WAS a nice and good person, I’ll give her that but wouldn’t say she’s the emotional center of the entire series. It’s very much an ensemble piece.
@@johnboy32064 I disagree. Cora's American background and outlook, and how that influences her daughters' characters and life choices, are pivotal for this show. Otherwise it would just be another British manners drama. She's stellar. Who else could have raised a Mary, Edith, and Sybille. All three characters are completely out of step with their fully British peers and to me they made the show watchable. I love Violet but frankly she's no one I'd want to live with.
Anna is so quick to apologise for name dropping Cora at the restaurant, you helped that woman carry a dead body across the house. Getting to use her name at restaurants is the least you deserve.
I‘m sorry I had to laugh so hard 😂 but it‘s so true 😂😂😂
I believe Cora doesn't usually get the credit that she deserves. From supporting Robert on the bankruptcy of the Estate, Mrs. Hughes on her health scare and many others and being a wonderful human being with everyone around her...the character is admirable and so well written, not to mention the wonderfully portrayal by Elizabeth McGovern... can't not love Downton ❤️
Very well said.
That offer to Mrs. Hughes during her health scare was a MAJOR concession for the time, with no retirement benefits or health insurance to cover the costs. What Cora did was not usual in households such as Downton. Sick servants wound up in the poorhouse, even those who had served a lifetime in a household. . . .
The way Cora handled the news of Robert losing her fortune was also unique. Robert was very fortunate having her as a wife, especially with Cora knowing that Robert had married her, not for love, but for her money. Most women, American or not would not have handled the loss so magnanimously.
McGovern's work in this show is outstanding. It would be very easy for the character of Cora to slip into being either suffocatingly sentimental, or nauseatingly saintly - McGovern always pitches her perfectly.
That ultimatum mentioning extra marital flirtation, kudos Coraaaaa!!!! Love you
You are so right. The way she carries herself in the soup line scene followed by her kind help: the acting is subtle and satisfying. I must admit a middle aged crush on Elizabeth McGovern. Those blue eyes are captivating.
Elizabeth played Cora beautifully. She gave more understanding to Robert than he deserved at times. Wonderful actress.
Cora had an understated strength and backbone which was unusual for the time period. She gave praise and thanked those who supported the family and expressed loyalty as a sure point of praise
@@Facetimer864 That's what I admired in her character.
No, she was never in it.
I love how she can stare and smile at people and people know not to mess with her
I love it how she tore Nanny West to strips without even raising her voice . Now THAT'S awesome!
Especially when you consider how painful and infuriating it must have been to hear how her granddaughter, her dead daughter's child, was being treated.
One of my favorite Cora scenes. My eyes still burn during that entire scene. Also loved when she told Mrs. Hughes she would always be taken care if she became ill. It's so many wonderful Cora moments, but these two are favorites.
Shouting would have upset the children. It's why the bell in the nursery is silent
True power
" Very well. If you can honestly say you have never let a flirtation get out of hand since we married. If you have never given a woman the wrong impression then by all means stay away. Otherwise I expect you in my room tonight."
"I'm American- have gun, will travel"
Iconic moments from this show! Cora is truly the core of this family.
Core-a.
In Latin the word for heart is cor. Beautiful way of saying Cora was the heart and center of the family.
Cora must have known about the maid.
When comforting Robert in the face of bankruptcy Cora is the epitome of, "She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life."
So incredible!
I wish you'd included when she gives Robert an earful for not wanting to dine with the opera singer. That's one of my favorite Cora moments.
Yes!!! The Robert turns around and blames Carson.
That was such an odd and potentially historically inaccurate moment. Nellie Melba was an enormous star at the time. I somehow doubt it that a random earl would find it beneath him to dine with her.
@@lalagonegaga Don't know about historical accuracy, but in the series the family tended to look down on artists and intellectuals. When they brought up somebody they knew who was a painter, or a poet, or a writer, they commented on how strange and odd they were.
@@lalagonegaga at the time yes dame Nellie was a star but actresses and performers were considered lower to middle class
I love it when Robert turns to Carson and says "I blame you!"
The way Bates sticks out his cane and then loudly unfolds his napkin is just perfection 🤣
Her accent! The way she used her height! The way she stared into people’s eyes! Her bubbly personality! This character and actress was hands down amazing and adorable. Her kindness definitely changed me.
I recently started and finished this series with the last 3 weeks 💞
She's definitely lovely in all the ways you said, but I can't think of any way she 'used her height', as you put it.
@@zbr76 position in life....in dealing with all levels in society
Cora promising to get a nurse and make sure that Mrs Hughes was cared for in the event of illness was the sweetest thing ever. She is a loving, loyal person.
Such love
Loved her here 😍
Yeah, and she speaks to every adult who isn't a fellow aristocrat as if they were a 5-year-old child. The way she cocks her chin down and to the side and puts on that condescending smile is about as pretentious as it gets. Every once in a while, she throws one of her little tiffs, and you get to see the real person peak out. It's usually when she doesn't get her way, or when she feels like someone has dared to tread on her aristocratic carpet, where only she may walk.
How sweet, caring, and lovely.
5:14 5:16 5:19 5:21
My favorite Cora line: I'm American, I don't share your English hatred of comfort 🤣
What-?
Remind us when/where was this said. I don't recall.
When I Google it, it says season 2 episode 6 but its not on my version (I'm in the U.S. now but first watched it in the UK). Maybe there are additional scenes between the US and UK versions but if you Google it, it pops up saying Season 2 episode 6. I'm bummed I can't find it now. I was an American living in the UK when I first saw it so the line always stuck with me.
@@markmh835 It was about the Telephone if I'm not mistaken
@@markmh835 I think it was when Robert was talking about how Richard Carlisle was renovating the home he and Mary were going to live in.
One of things I love about Cora is that she doesn’t shame Robert for crying and comforts him instead
Why would she or any loving wife shame her husband for showing genuine emotion?
@@yevgeniyaleshchenko849
Bien vu.
Just another American thing ig, British society has always been about the "stiff upper lip", whilst Americans are a bit more expressive
You forgot...
1) When she helps her daughter Mary carry the body of Mr. Pamuk back to his room
2) When she consoles her daughter Edith after being jilted at the altar by Sir Anthony
3) When she's saying her final goodbyes to her daughter Sybil upon her death after childbirth.
4) When she discusses the efficiency of a Refrigerator to Mrs. Patmore
5) When she stands up to the Dowager Countess about turning the house into a Convalescence/hospital during the war.
6) When she puts her foot down over the running of the house during the war with Mrs. Crawley.
7) When she talks with Lady Flintshire about caring for Rose while they're away in India.
8) When she scolds O'Brien about her disdain for Matthew Crawley in the servant's hall.
9) As she smiles while silently watching Lady Sybil learn how to cook/bake a cake.
10) As she walks the halls of Downton after seeing Baby Bates, while discussing with Lord Grantham about watching the children grow. (grandchildren that is.)
I love the moment Cora found out about Marigold. She was immediately on Edith's side. Everyone else was only concerned about reputation, but Cora could see that her baby didn't want to lose her baby and immediately went to action to help her keep her.
So many Cora quality highlights - all positive moments of this show. And Elizabeth McGovern...say no more.
Cora's final goodbye to Sybil was so moving ... "My beauty ... My baby." ... PEACE.
When she fires Nanny West for insulting Sybbie
"I’m going to help them, and so are you." Like a BOSS! 🇺🇸
My favorite Cora Crawley moment was how she handled things when O'Brien told her that Mrs. Patmore and Daisey were stealing food from Downton and selling it out of Lady Crawley's house. Once she found out what was really going on, Cora took over like a boss and in no way was minded to punish Mrs. Patmore and Daisey or the others in any way, but threw in to give assistance to help their cause, even to take charge of the source of the food being given away so as not to cause any conflict with the Army over Army food supplies being mismanaged or pilfered. This may have been an O'Brien attempt at making it up to Cora for causing her to miscarry what was to have been Cora's and Robert's son and heir, but you never know with O'Brien.
She politely scolded O’Brien by making her work
@@Mxyzptlksac and that was the lesser punishment for the infraction.
O'Brien was just a hateful woman; she had no redeeming qualities. .... PEACE to ALL.
There seems to be a recurring theme about them recognizing when they are being manipulated and "turning the tables" in this case quite literally. But also consider how deftly the Violet dealt with her staff when they each tried to maneuver her into action. She seemed to be prepared to flip there tables regardless of the consequences just to prevent being manipulated. Honestly, seeing how many times they spotted attempts at manipulation and shut it down, I am surprised Barrow survived as long as he did.
@@sheilaburns8977 O'Brien was a product of her time. She needed to find any bit of power and control to have an upper hand. That's how you get ahead in service during those times. The last thing anyone needed was to be unemployed back then. It was a death sentence. They did what they did to stay working.
Very Pathetic and Sad Times!!
Cora is my favorite Crawley. She's not as glitzy as the other ladies of the house, but she's absolutely the pillar of that great house.
On more than one occasion Cora Crawly represents the moral, human empathy and kindness that is centred in this story. Whilst other characters are sometimes mean and manipulative, she stays within her own good kindness towards both upstairs as well as downstairs. The same goes for Sybill, of whom you can easily say that she is like her mother. Cora is a leader in a matriarch manner without imposing herself too strongly, but a leader with conviction and durable strenght with patience and compassion, she is truly the driving force behind lord Grantham. I could not see any other actress then mrs. Mcgovern in this role, perfectly casted!!
I've heard this elsewhere too that each of the sisters mirror an older woman; Sibyl mirrors Cora, Edith mirrors Rosamund and Mary mirrors Violet
@@michellewilliams3908 -- I have not heard this before, but beautiful parallelism. Thanks for sharing.
Behind every great man stands a greater woman, who supports, guides and leads with compassion and grace.
@@michellewilliams3908 Only in the last few days did I notice the comparison between Mary and Violet but yes, its there.
Cora has always been the epitome of style and grace. And no other actress could have played her so beautifully!
It still brings tears to my eyes watching the scene where Cora tells Mrs Hughes that if she's sick that Mrs Hughes will stay and be looked after
The waiter's face when Cora says she wishes she could join John and Anna, and then John's face are priceless !
The anger she portrayed when she caught Nanny West was absolutely on point. You could see the fury under the surface. Just perfection.
A beautiful and understated character. "Never the hurricane but always the eye." Elizabeth McGovern plays her to perfection.
Cora was the definition of elegance ❤
Thank you to whoever put this together. Cora is often overlooked because she was mostly quiet and understated, but these clips are strong reminders of the power she had and the grace and kindness and warmth. Really excellent, thank you!
Cora was a true lady with an open heart. She was fair and strong when necessary. Elizabeth McGovern did a phenomenal job. I love the clip in which she and her daughters won't leave Isabel's house because her maid used to be a lady of the night. Also the one where she loses Lady Sybil, and also the one where she fires that ghastly nanny.
the scene where Sybil dies is so painful to watch, and her reaction is the main reason why. She so desperately clings to her youngest daughter and then she has the hardest time grieving out of all the Crawleys. She's such a class act and the actress does a phenomenal job as you say portraying her
Cora is a representation of all the American women who were rich and courted by broke English nobility. Many of the husband's gambeled or lavishly spent thier wives money till there was no more, then left them. Robert and Cora seem to genuinely care for one another.
For a character actress to be able to pull off loving mother, devoted wife, stern director at the hospital, kind Lady with her servants and more........hats off to Elizabeth McGovern. NOT an easy task to flip to different sides of her inter-dimentional character every week for 6 years....and counting.
2:16 I LOVE what Cora said and how she stood up for herself here. Robert was definitely not clean himself, for he did have an affair with a former housemaid while Cora was sick 🙄
Do you mean Jane? That was a flirtation that was getting out of hand, but not a full-fledged "affair".
@@mikef5881 He still crossed a major line when he made out with her in his bedroom and they would have taken it further had Bates not interrupted them and he came to his senses. For me that's grounds enough for divorce - the kiss alone!
One of my favorite scenes.
8:56 This moment truly brings me to tears. The compassion and concern from Cora is inspiring. Love her so much!
Ah, Cora. She is a wonderful character who is exquisitely played by talented and beautiful Elizabeth McGovern.
Cora is what makes downton a home. And treats the staff as part of the family best
4:56 I love how Cora tells Mrs. Patmore to charge the cost to the house (and thus the family) and then helps out.
I love her character so so much ♥️
I've always LOVE when O'Brien gets slapped down!
My favorite line is "don't worry about me I'm an American have gun will travel." It just perfectly contrasts the British and the Americans and shows, in my opinion, why Cora and Robert's marriage worked.
Cora's shoulders must feel pretty stiff from literally carrying the abbey for six seasons
No it was a show with well thought out characters, it was a shared burden imo.
A character so perfectly written and played beautifully, sensitively and with great strength by Elizabeth McGovern.
The part when Bates hands him his cane is Pure. Poetry. And Lady Grantham was right...He is a snob.
There was much class distinction then.
@@lindap8101 Sadly not too much has changed in over 100years.
@@m.layfette6249 their loss!
"I'm an American. Have gun, will travel." The greatest line!
She exemplifies quiet strength so wonderfully!! I admire her!
I wish the video had included her best line: "Am I the only person in this house living in the 20th century?"
I'd forgotten just how amazingly brilliant this series is. Thank you for reminding me.
Lots of people on FB don’t care for Elizabeth McGovern playing Cora but I LOVE her in this role ! Kudos to her for doing such a great job. Even though she was their #2 option, I can’t see anyone else in this role.
Cora is one of the kindest character in Downton, and Lady Sybil's goodness is obviously from her. Her only bad thing is what her servants often manipulate her lol
Such a great show.
I wish I could be as eloquent as Cora, she's so gracious and kind but strong when needed.
cora was hands down the best person in the show
You forgot (Part 2)...
* When she forgives and overlooks Baxter's past and allows her to keep her job at Downton
* When she eases the tension with Mr. Mosely as he speaks to the Queen
* When she tells the Dowager Countess that she's not going to disown her daughter Mary in regards to the Pamuk scandal.
* When she stands by Robert's side and holds a napkin to his mouth during his burst ulcer.
* As she escorts Lady Rose during her coming out ceremony at the palace.
* When she speaks to the Queen to convince the King to not allow Lord Hexam to attend the Royal tour with the Prince of Wales. Just before Lady Edith gives birth to their first child.
* When she talks to Daisy about the situation with Mr. Mason
Loved how she went momma bear on the nanny with her grandchildren
One of the greatest characters ever created played by one of the greatest actresses ever.
She is pure class
I know you couldn't include everything, but I would have loved to see the very first time in the series when we see Cora in "crisis" mode, after Pamuk's death when she and Mary and Anna decide what to do. Great scenes there.
Not related to the topic but I've been wanting to say this. There were very few scenes that tugged at my heartstrings in this series but two scenes were, one, when Cora and Robert were told Sybil probably would've died no matter what and Cora started sobbing while Robert held her. That sounded real and choked me up. The other is when Mr. Bates walked out into the hall after Mrs. Hughes tells him what happened to Anna. That was a well acted scene when he broke down.
These really are some of Cora's most kickass moments. She is an incredible character.
When she whisper screams at Mary, "For once in your life will you just listen!" And then starts speaking softly again.
this series truly defines lemons into lemonade. every interaction, every conversation. I can't help but think, how English.
I'm sad to say that I never got around to watching Downtown Abbey as much as I should've. Cora epitomizes a woman who carries herself with grace, tact, compassion and elegance.
I love Elizabeth McGovern! It is amazing that every actor was so wonderful in the cast of Downton.
Elizabeth Montgomery died in 1995. I think you meant to say McGovern.
@@ToutCQJM Thanks. I'm in my 70s and make stupid errors.
@@philipsmith3084You're not stupid my dear. Just living in an age were Autocorrect thinks it's smarter than everyone else. 😉
The Queen of passively politely telling you off
"I'm an American. 'Have gun, will travel'."
Such a great line
I am sad it’s over so I watched it again now I’m watching the highlights, the best series I have ever seen
Her and Sibel were always my favourite they were so kind
I wish I knew someone like Cora...a true inspiration!
Downton Abbey is a wonderful way to escape the here and now, if only for a few hours. Elizabeth McGovern as Cora does a marvelous job, and greatly enhances this wonderful series. ♥
2 more favorite Cora moments... when she shoots down Barrow after Baxter tells her the truth and when she stands up for Mary in the Pamuk scandal to Granny.
"Don't worry about me, I'm an American...have gun will travel."
Elizabeth McGovern is who attracted me to Downton Abbey. I loved The Scarlet Pimpernel she did with Richard E. Grant (also in Downton Abbey). She was fabulous in that… and fabulous in this!
🎭🎬👏🏻🎁💖
Cora was the most riveting role as an American in a foreign land. It shows those of class from America.
Hard to pick a favourite character in the show but Cora is definitely one of them 💛
Elegant. Pure and simple…
I MISS this show so much…
I remember my very first job I was 16..serving very upper class...we were not allowed to eat near their kitchen..well me being young and silly decided to.have a snack only to be caught red handed by a very high up person ..she politely told me off ..then pulled a chair from.a table and told me to sit at the table and eat before I get indigestion..lovley family ..I miss them days .
Cora was my fav. Always
Cora was absolutely my favorite character in the whole series. Her combination of being American and marrying into a English family with titles. Cora brought her American values, her pioneering blood, and what it means to be a great Lady. She also became a great lady in England. Lady Grantham adapted for her husband to make him proud. She truly loved her husband and didn't care that he lost. "Don't worry about me, I'm an American, have gun will travel".
You are being tested. And do you know what they say, my darling? Being tested only makes you stronger. My favorite qoute of hers.
The actor who played the restaurant host did an amazing job, even when he had no lines he managed to say so much even with the tiniest facial expressions, you know an actor is good when you end up disliking his character so much, also I taught myself English ( and I still am ) by watching UK television because that was the only channel in English available in my hometown’s local cable network, so great part of my vocabulary consists in sentences and phrases I learned on tv, not to mention my accent is all over the place depending on the TV program and the part of the UK it was from and one of those phrases is “in a jiffy, in a jiffy” when I say it I always get mixed reaction from people, some laugh and ask how old I am and others just look at me terribly confused LOL
Cora's not even my favorite character (though she's great) but the writers gave her the kindest and most generous actions, on balance, throughout the whole series.
Cora is absolute gold! Robert throwing his little hissy fits makes me smirk. He is lucky to have her! Especially when she's willing to show sympathy after he practically ruined them financially! I always thought the scene in the nursery was truly well written. Prejudice views and racism are the number one reasons why humanity cannot progress as a collective. Like a bird trying to fly with two damaged wings.
I’m so glad Cora owning the Maitre’d in the first clip is the best.
I adore Cora, her smile just screams warm and friendly. And she knows how to handle a situation with elegance and class
I love Cora...she always knew the right answer and how to manage a house with grace...
“Don’t worry, I’m an American. Have gun, will travel.” ~ truly one of my favorite Cora lines
The first clip- I've never noticed Cora observing what was going on in the background. I just assumed she was off screen watching it happen.
Speaks much about her character. She easily could of ignored the situation but from the start she had their backs.
She was a beast! Loved this character.
Cora always so posh and classy 🤩
She was so well cast.
She’s a gem. 🙂
All so good my favorite is “ I’m an American 🇺🇸 have gun will travel “ I also love how she catches nanny west and gives what for for her prejudice
She reminds me of my mom. ❤
Years ago, the same happened to me at a very swanky hotel in Paris. I stuck around until they took me down to the lower basement. When I got back to the UK, I discovered that they hadn't charged me for my meal 😊❤
The scene where Lady C helped serve the food, made I cry 😪 A wonderful touch 😊
And that last scene 😪
6:42 Cora the Mama Bear defends the cubs.
More like a Mother Eagle swooping in to protect her chicks.
That whole scene was Purely American.
Cora Crawley is one we should all aspire to be like.
Cora is simply Class with a Heart of Gold
I have adored Elizabeth McGovern since her days of She’s Having a Baby back in the 80’s. Wonderful actress who has only refined with time!
I remember her part in Ragtime. She seems predivined to play Cora.
Ordinary People with Timothy Hutton got me through many tough times.
Loved her in Once Upon a Time in America with Robert DeNiro and James Woods. ... PEACE.
You should have included when she was talking to Mrs Crawley about using Downton as a hospital.
My favorite character. She deserved more developed plots.
I really like Cora and seeing how she emotionally matured from the first series to the last. The changes that WW1 brought clearly had a very deep effect on her. I don't know if I believe that the restaurant scene, where she helped Bates and Anna, would have happened before the war. I don't know that she would have even looked away from her table in the first place.
She wouldn't have been in a restaurant at all, most likely. Edith talks about how wild it feels to be eating in a restaurant and that Cora would never let them eat in public except at hotels they were staying in
I honestly can't pin down a single moment where Cora shone the brightest...she lit up the screen whenever she appeared. Brilliant character and brilliant writing.
Cora, we love you. Amazing 👏
She was always so soft-spoken but when she needed to be firm-whether it was with Matthews mother,the dowager,the servants,even her husband-she stood firm.She was always The Lady Of The House.