The Buccaneers: Facts vs. Fiction – A Review

Rebellious Magazine for Women is officially a teenager! If Edith Wharton knew her final work would inspire the Apple TV+ series The Buccaneers, she might not have spent her golden years documenting the Gilded Age. This period, characterized by huge economic growth in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, saw new millionaires seeking respectability by marrying into Europe’s elite.

Nearly 500 “dollar princesses” emerged during this time, including Consuelo Montagu, the Duchess of Manchester. Unfortunately, Wharton passed away before completing the novel that served as inspiration. Nevertheless, scholar Marion Mainwaring finished the work based on Wharton’s outline, and a BBC One miniseries adaptation was attempted in 1995.

The current interpretation of The Buccaneers by Katherine Jakeways takes some liberties with the source material, featuring lavish sets and a soundtrack reminiscent of Marie Antoinette. Despite the deviations, the series provides escapist entertainment that may spark interest in Wharton’s writings.

The show modifies characters and storylines to appeal to modern audiences, altering relationships and character dynamics. While some aspects of the series can be considered lacking in historical accuracy, it still offers an engaging escape for viewers, especially with the addition of new cast members like Leighton Meester and Greg Wise in Season 2.

The portrayal of characters like Nan St. George, Lord Seadown, and Laura Testvalley has seen significant changes from the original text, introducing new subplots and transforming established personalities. Despite these shifts, the series aims to entertain and potentially introduce a new generation of viewers to the works of Edith Wharton.

In conclusion, The Buccaneers on Apple TV+ may take some creative liberties with its source material, but it offers an engaging escape into the world of the Gilded Age. Whether it’s the adaptation’s portrayal of characters or its interpretations of historical events, the show aims to entertain its audience while paying homage to Wharton’s legacy.