Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell is a fantasy drama miniseries based on Susanna Clarke's novel of the same name. There are many forces at play: power, greed, and manipulation, but also love and the desire to be accepted within an established society. As such it's not a relaxing watch, but attentive viewers are rewarded with riveting plot twists and complex characters who always deliver intriguing performances. Because the story is so involved and the mood so foreboding, the show is best for teens and adults who can make some sense of the weighty morality issues the characters face, as well as implications of dark magic and its consequences.

Sexual Content

Not applicable

Violence

The show sets a dark mood that makes small surprises even more jarring. Inanimate objects come to life, a corpse is reanimated; other instances of magic. Dead bodies shown. Some blood.

Language

Not applicable

Social Behavior

Norrell struggles with the line between right and wrong as it applies to his use of magic and the manipulation of natural forces. Greed and power are strong forces that influence behavior, and even well-intentioned actions often have negative consequences. The series seems to ask whether having the power to alter natural forces entitles one to do so, even when others are affected in a negative way.

Consumerism

Not applicable

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Drinking is prominent at social gatherings, and Jonathan's propensity to drink alcohol is mentioned in passing.