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Cadfael 1994

★ 7.6/10 · 34 votes DramaCrime 4 seasons · 13 eps Ended
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Quick answer

What is Cadfael?

Cadfael is a television series centered on a twelfth-century Anglo-Welsh monk. The title character is a retired crusader who experienced disappointment in love before joining the religious order.

Type
TV series
Year
1994
Status
Ended
Episodes
13
Runtime
50 minutes
First aired
May 29, 1994
Last aired
Dec 28, 1998
Original language
EN
Origin
GB
Networks
ITV1
Genres
Drama, Crime
Updated
Availability by region

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Overview

Cadfael is a television series centered on a twelfth-century Anglo-Welsh monk. The title character is a retired crusader who experienced disappointment in love before joining the religious order. Based at Shrewsbury Abbey, he serves as a herbalist in charge of the monastery gardens. The narrative follows his activities in and around Shrewsbury, located in the border country where England meets Wales. Although his primary role is within the abbey, Brother Cadfael is frequently called upon to investigate murders and other crimes occurring in the local area. By utilizing his background and skills, he navigates the challenges of his environment to resolve various mysteries. The series explores his life as a monk and his involvement in the legal and social affairs of the region during the twelfth century. This production focuses on the intersection of his monastic duties and his role as an investigator in the Shropshire countryside.

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Should you watch it?

“A twelfth-century monk uses his herbalist skills to solve crimes in medieval Shropshire.”

Reasons to watch
  • engaging historical setting
  • thoughtful protagonist
Keep in mind
  • slow-paced narrative
  • niche subject matter

Watch it if you enjoy historical mysteries set in medieval monastic life.

The series features themes of murder and crime within a twelfth-century religious setting.

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Episode guide

Season 1 · 4 episodes Open the complete Season 1 guide →
Season 2 · 3 episodes
Season 3 · 3 episodes
Season 4 · 3 episodes

Frequently asked questions

Who is the main character?

The protagonist is Brother Cadfael, a monk and herbalist living at Shrewsbury Abbey.

When is the show set?

The series is set during the twelfth century.

Where does the show take place?

The stories are set in and around Shrewsbury, Shropshire, near the border of England and Wales.

What is Brother Cadfael's background?

He is a retired crusader who experienced disappointment in love before becoming a monk.

What is the monk's primary role at the abbey?

Brother Cadfael is in charge of the abbey gardens.