Watch How To Get Ahead

How To Get Ahead, a British television series from 2013, is a fascinating exploration of the historical norms, social behaviours, and power dynamics embedded in different eras. Presented by the brilliant historian and broadcaster Richard Stemp, the programme draws the viewer into the complex, lavish, and sometimes deadly world of court life in various periods of history.

The show, produced by the renowned BBC network, consists of three one-hour episodes, each focused on a particular era and court – the Renaissance, the Georgian era, and the Victorian period. The show makes an exciting and vivid journey through the aesthetics and atmospheres of these worlds, providing a rounded understanding of their context and significance. The series attempts to not only capture the grandeur and splendour of these courts but also endeavours to bring forth the intricacies, subtleties, and unwritten rules of court life in these eras.

The first episode titled "At Court", transports viewers back to the Renaissance epoch, where we get to experience the Vatican's court life during the papacy of Pope Julius II. This period is marked by a tremendous flowering of art and culture under Pope Julius II, who was a keen patron of the arts. The setting elucidates the political and religious dynamics of the time and captures the Papal court's vibrant and opulent environment.

In the second episode of How To Get Ahead, the timeline moves forward to the indulgent Georgian Court of Versailles. Referred to as "Versailles", this segment examines the reign of King Louis XV and the elaborate rituals, etiquette, and painstaking ceremonies that permeated daily court life. The episode meticulously unravels how artful manoeuvring and manipulation could lead to advancement in this lofty court, in favour or disfavour of the King.

Finally, the series delves into the Victorian age with the episode "In Buckingham Palace". This chapter throws light on the strict protocols and tightly controlled environment within Queen Victoria's court. It emphasises the repressive and stuffy atmosphere during this period, a stark contrast to the previous two eras. Yet, it also offers insights into the structural shifts and evolution in courtliness that transpired during this era.

Throughout each episode of How To Get Ahead, Richard Stemp, with his command over history and engaging narration, delves deep into the intriguing intricacies of court life. Viewers gain a glimpse into how particular attitudes, behaviours, and currencies of influence evolved and played out in these grand courts. He introduces and interviews various experts who add more depth to the discussions, delivering a comprehensive understanding of the topics explored.

Stemp doesn't just limit himself to the historical facts. He skillfully weaves individual stories and anecdotes into the broader narrative, bringing these bygone eras alive. From the aesthetic norms and artistic preferences of the era, the taste-making factor of the courts and their effects on broader fashion and lifestyle trends to the complex social hierarchy and rules for social advancement, How To Get Ahead covers it all.

Moreover, the series embraces an immersive approach, using richly detailed reenactments, beautiful locations, and captivating visuals. This makes the viewing experience of How To Get Ahead an immersive walk through time, enabling audiences to absorb each detail and intricacies of these periods. So, whether you are a lover of history or just intrigued by the concept of power, prestige, and social navigation, How To Get Ahead proves to be a compelling watch.

In essence, How To Get Ahead is a brilliantly-executed historical series that paints a vivid picture of life at court during three of history's most interesting eras. It combines meticulous research, expert interviews, and sumptuous visuals to breathe life into these periods of dramatic class stratification, pompous ceremonies, and heightened social manoeuvring. A must-watch for those who are fascinated not only by history but also the socio-political dynamics of power and influence.