Clayhanger

1976
Ended
Drama
~1h / ep
1 season
6.0/10

Clayhanger is a British television drama based on Arnold Bennett's novel series of the same name, published between 1910 and 1918, dramatised by Douglas Livingstone for ITV. Produced by Associated Television, the 26-episode programme is a coming-of-age story set in 19th century England. Edwin Clayhanger aspires to be an architect but is expected to join his father's printing business. His personal growth, eventual acceptance of the family business, and his romantic entanglement with Hilda Lessways are explored. Clayhanger was ITV's longest-ever drama at the time. While some found the pacing slow, it was nonetheless praised for its faithful adaptation, excellent acting, and atmospheric sets.

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Latest: Season 1 · 1976

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E1. Last of a Schoolboy
Jan 1, 1976 · 60m
July 1872. It is Edwin Clayhanger's last day at school. Everyone expects that he will enter his father's printing business, but Edwin has very different ideas about his future.
E2. The Architect
Jan 8, 1976 · 60m
Edwin becomes a hero - he wins his fathers admiration, but is no nearer to the realisation of his own ambitions to become an architect.
E3. HIlda
Jan 15, 1976 · 60m
Edwin has written to his father reminding him that he wants to train as an architect. Darius is curious, while Edwin realises that a summons from his aunt means the battle has come to a head...
E4. The Five Towns Chronicle and Turnhill Guardian
Jan 22, 1976 · 60m
While Edwin continues to work as an assistant at his father's printing works, eyebrows are raised when Hilda Lessways becomes the first woman in the Five Towns to learn shorthand - in order to work for George Cannon.
E5. Sin and Romance
Jan 29, 1976 · 60m
Hilda receives a telegram from London informing her that her mother is ill. Instead of leaving at once, she continues to work on the first edition of Cannon's newspaper.
E6. Escape to Bleakridge
Feb 5, 1976 · 60m
Hilda's feeling of responsibility for her mother's death has led her to a nervous breakdown. While still recovering in Miss Gailey's boarding house, she hears that Cannon is insisting on visiting her.