I. Introduction
“Call the Midwife” is a British period drama series that has captivated audiences around the world. Set in the 1950s and 1960s, the show follows the lives of midwives and nuns working in the impoverished East End of London. With complex characters, powerful storylines, and beautiful music, this series has become a fan favorite. In this article, we provide a complete guide to every season of “Call the Midwife”, from the first episode to the final season.
II. A Complete Guide to Every Season of Call the Midwife
“Call the Midwife” has eight seasons, each with its own unique storylines and characters. Let’s take a closer look at each season:
Season 1
The first season of “Call the Midwife” introduces us to the world of midwifery and the Nonnatus House, where the midwives live and work. Set in 1957, we see how the midwives, led by Sister Julienne, navigate the challenges of childbirth in the East End of London. Throughout the season, we meet a range of characters, including Jenny Lee, a newly qualified midwife, and Fred Buckle, the local handyman with a heart of gold.
Season 2
In season 2, we see the midwives face more challenges as they deal with a polio outbreak and a mother who refuses medical help for her seriously ill child. We also get to know the midwives on a more personal level, as Jenny Lee embarks on a new romance and Sister Bernadette struggles with her faith.
Season 3
The third season sees the return of Jenny Lee, who has moved on to become a district nurse. We also meet new midwife Barbara Gilbert, who quickly becomes an important member of the Nonnatus House team. This season deals with issues such as abortion, adoption, and the impact of thalidomide.
Season 4
Season 4 sees the midwives dealing with the aftermath of a dockworkers’ strike and helping a young woman with dwarfism give birth. We also see Chummy return to Nonnatus House after struggling to adjust to life as a housewife.
Season 5
Season 5 takes place in 1961 and sees the midwives tackle issues such as female genital mutilation, domestic violence, and racism. We also see Trixie struggle with her drinking and Shelagh become a midwife.
Season 6
Season 6 sees the midwives embracing change as the Nonnatus House takes in new refugees and Sister Ursula takes over as the new head of the order. This season also deals with topics such as homosexuality, adoption, and cancer.
Season 7
In season 7, we see Poplar facing the harsh winter of 1963 and the midwives dealing with the added pressures this brings. We also see the introduction of two new characters, Nurse Crane and Sister Monica Joan’s long-lost friend.
Season 8
The final season of “Call the Midwife” takes place in 1964 and sees the midwives say goodbye to Nonnatus House as they prepare to move to a new location. This season tackles issues such as unmarried mothers and the impact of Thalidomide, with emotional performances from all the cast.
III. The Evolution of Call the Midwife
Over its eight seasons, “Call the Midwife” has grown and changed. What started as a show about midwifery in post-war London has evolved to tackle a range of important issues. Throughout its run, “Call the Midwife” has explored themes such as poverty, racism, homosexuality, and women’s rights. The show has also become more diverse, with a range of characters from different ethnic backgrounds and sexual orientations included in the cast.
IV. Ranking the Seasons of Call the Midwife
With eight seasons to choose from, it can be tough to decide which season of “Call the Midwife” is the best. Here, we break down each season from worst to best:
Season 8
The final season of “Call the Midwife” is the strongest yet. The emotional storylines and excellent performances from the cast make this season a standout.
Season 5
Season 5 deals with some of the most powerful issues presented in the show and features standout performances from the cast.
Season 7
Season 7 sees the introduction of new characters alongside powerful storylines and emotional performances.
Season 3
The third season deals with some difficult issues but does so with sensitivity and compassion.
Season 6
Season 6 features a diverse range of storylines and characters, making it a standout season.
Season 4
While season 4 may not have the emotional impact of other seasons, it does feature some excellent performances and interesting storylines.
Season 1
The first season provides a solid foundation for the show and introduces us to the main characters. However, it lacks the emotional punch of later seasons.
Season 2
Season 2 has some standout moments but is often overshadowed by other seasons.
V. The Music of Call the Midwife
One of the standout features of “Call the Midwife” is its beautiful music. The show’s original score, composed by Maurizio Malagnini, perfectly captures the mood and tone of each season. Some standout musical moments from the show include the use of “There’s Always Something There to Remind Me” in season 1 and “Hold Tight” in season 5.
VI. How Call the Midwife Has Tackled Social Issues Throughout Its Seasons
“Call the Midwife” has always been a show that tackles important social issues. Throughout its run, the show has explored poverty, racism, gender inequality, and other issues affecting the people of East London. One memorable episode from season 4 deals with the issue of dwarfism and shows the midwives helping a woman give birth to a child with the condition. Other notable episodes include season 2’s exploration of thalidomide, season 5’s examination of domestic violence, and season 6’s focus on homosexuality.
VII. The Fashion of Call the Midwife
The fashion of “Call the Midwife” is one of its most iconic features. Set in the 1950s and 1960s, the show features beautiful and authentic period costumes. Each character has their own signature look, from Trixie’s bold prints to Sister Monica Joan’s quirky hats. The show’s costume designer, Charlotte Mitchell, has been nominated for several awards for her work on the show.
VIII. Saying Goodbye to Call the Midwife
The final season of “Call the Midwife” was an emotional one for fans of the show. With the midwives saying goodbye to Nonnatus House, viewers were left wondering what would happen to their favorite characters. The series finale was a fitting end to the show, with emotional performances from all the cast and a satisfying conclusion to each character’s story.
IX. Conclusion
“Call the Midwife” has been a beloved series for eight seasons, providing viewers with powerful storylines, complex characters, and beautiful music. Throughout its run, the show has tackled important social issues with sensitivity and compassion. With the final season now over, fans of the show will miss the midwives and nuns of Nonnatus House, but will always cherish the impact that “Call the Midwife” has had on their lives.