I understand why tv wants to ensure better representation for minorities, and women, but why pretend that the past was as - or more - enlightened than the present? Surely the point, or one of the points, of "resurrecting" the past is to acknowledge its faults, and be grateful for the way that society has progressed, or is continuing to progress?
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If it helps, think of it as fan fiction. It's taking fascinating real-life people (or fictional characters) and imagining them in different "what if" situations. In the case of fictional characters, if you're very, very, very lucky, you get the magic that is "Sherlock." (Which, yes, is probably part of the reason I had to check out this series. But the concept of Houdini & Doyle is pretty cool in it's own right, and I like the acting I've seen, too. Here's hoping we get another round of episodes!)
shareIt's all about the commercials. Advertisers need programs to be PC in the worst possible way so they don't lose potential buyers. People who like being offended will complain to advertisers and tv stations if the shows they watch don't have the requisite number of dominant females, minorities, gay couples or villainous or incompetent men.
I notice that it is the current fashion to sneer the words " politically correct " or "PC" at any notion that attempts to treat people more fairly than makes one comfortable. Or in reaction to someone not appreciating the way that you treat or speak of people of a differing gender, enthicity, choice of romantic partner, or political persuasion.
PC has become an insult, to denote someone that YOU think is trying too hard to be fair.
For period pieces to focus on characters that may have been the exception versus the rule may indeed be a nod to current sensibilities, but I , for one, am not that interested in watching period pieces in which the woman and ethnic minorites are " kept in their place" . Even in the period pieces currently made that do picture the rebels, they face insult and opposition. They choose to stand against it, or bear up under it.
Independant minded and acting women existed in the 1800's. Louisa May Alcott was one, as was her mother. Her father treated them as that, as well. Many of the rebels were thought to be harridans and harpies, especially those who spoke the loudest about the vote and other requests for fair treatment.
What you call (condescendingly) "PC" is rather looking at the past with a modern eye. And focusing on the exceptions.