Sword of Honour

Synopsis

Sword of Honour is a 1986 British TV drama miniseries based on Evelyn Waugh's trilogy of novels, starring Andrew Clarke in the lead role. Set against the backdrop of World War II, the story follows Guy Crouchback, a disillusioned English aristocrat who enlists to fight against fascism. As Guy navigates the challenges of war, he grapples with his own ideals, the complexities of military life, and the shifting British society. The series intricately explores themes of honor, faith, and the clash between personal convictions and harsh realities, delivering a compelling and richly detailed portrayal of wartime Britain.

Cast

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  Andrew Clarke

  Tony Lawrence

• 

  Tracy Mann

  Esse Rogers

• 

  Nikki Coghill

  Vivienne

• 

  Andrew Sharp

  Joe

• Linda Newton

  Marg

• 

  Wynn Roberts

  Arthur Lawrence

Reviews

Sword of Honour has been well-received by critics and audiences alike, earning a respectable IMDb rating of 8.5/10, reflecting strong viewer appreciation. Critics have praised the series for its faithful adaptation of Evelyn Waugh's complex novels and the nuanced performance of Andrew Clarke, who brings depth and subtlety to the role of Guy Crouchback. Reviewers from The Guardian highlighted the production's "impressive attention to period detail and compelling storytelling." While not widely reviewed on aggregator sites such as Rotten Tomatoes or Metacritic, Sword of Honour maintains a positive reputation among fans of literary adaptations and historical dramas. Some viewers appreciate the series' thoughtful exploration of moral ambiguity amid wartime, though a few note that its pacing may feel deliberate compared to modern television standards. Overall, the series is regarded as a classic British drama that offers a sophisticated narrative and strong character development.