While I was first introduced to this wonderful novel way back in the 80's after I had seen the BBC mini-series, it is quite droll compared to the television show. Don't get me wrong, I do love the novel, but it is quite another animal to watch the great actors in the miniseries bring this book to life. It is truly an exquisite production!!! Breathtaking sets (they actually used REAL locations!) and wonderful acting by everyone involved in it. If you haven't seen it I highly suggest that you seek it out. It was the forerunner to Downton Abbey- without Brideshead there wouldn't have been a Downton.