The BBC’s adaptation of Poldark (2015) has sweeping Cornish landscapes, intense romance and some incredibly dramatic storylines. This drama series stars Aidan Turner as the brooding Ross Poldark and Eleanor Tomlinson as his spirited wife, Demelza. It brings Winston Graham’s 12-book saga, which is set in the late 18th century, to life. Fans quite quickly became invested in the storyline, especially considering the fascinating and complex characters.
Beyond this, the social and economic tensions depicted in Cornwall during this era are why the series offers a gripping and historic portrayal. These factors have raised a common question about the authenticity of events. So, if viewers have been left wondering whether Poldark is a true story, here’s what to know.
Is ‘Poldark’ based on a true story?
Although this series is inspired by historical context, Poldark is not based on a true story. Winston Graham invented the main characters and plotlines, but he grounded them in the world he studied. Viewers may recognize that Cornwall’s mining industry, social unrest and period customs seem incredibly real. These elements were implemented in the novels to give Poldark a sense of authenticity.
It was a no-brainer to also include those things in the series, especially given the help of historian consultants throughout the show, as History Extra notes. These cultural and historical elements were clearly not invented by Graham, but the central characters were. Fan favorites like Ross, Demelza and George Warleggan, as well as the plot points, are fictional.
Where does ‘Poldark’ take place?
Poldark is primarily set in Cornwall, a real-life region known for its rugged coastline, picturesque villages and historic mining heritage. The series highlights Cornwall’s natural beauty, from its cliffside vistas to secluded coves, creating a realistic atmosphere. The fictional Nampara Cove, where Ross Poldark lives and works, is one of the most iconic locations in the series. By setting the story in a real location, but layering on invented towns, people and events, Poldark tells a distinct and historically embellished story.
To achieve some sense of authenticity in the series, the production filmed across Cornwall and some parts of Gloucestershire. As PBS reports, the Botallack Mine and Penberth Cove were both used to depict the mining operations and coastal areas that surround Nampara. Additionally, the Chavenage House in Gloucestershire served as a stand-in for Trenwith, which is the Poldark family estate, per Wanderers of the World. These locations helped to convey both the historical and social context of Poldark, but they also showcased some dramatic Cornish landscapes.
What happens to George?
George Warleggan (Jack Farthing), serves as Ross Poldark’s central antagonist. He is a wealthy banker and social climber whose ambitions quite often place him in direct opposition to Ross. Over the course of the series, George evolves from a cold, calculating figure into a more complex character. Audiences get to see how he is driven by insecurities, jealousy and a desire for social acceptance. But as later parts of Poldark reveal, he becomes consumed by grief due to the death of his wife, which leads him to a slow mental decline, even causing hallucinations.
With this transformation from a once calculating banker to a broken man struggling to maintain control of his empire and mind, George is depicted as an unstable and haunted man. His rivalry with Ross and overall interference with the lives of others create many of the series’ most compelling tensions. Over time, George gradually begins to recover. He does so with the support of his uncle, Cary (Pip Torrens), and later through his growing relationship with his son, Valentine (Alfie Rigby). Yet all of that progress is somewhat tainted by George’s continued suspicions that Valentine is actually Poldark’s child.
Per WTTW, by the end of the series, when Poldark has to pretend to be a French spy and face off against the French general, George saves his life. George suddenly arrives at the scene and shoots and kills the general. This twist is a bit confusing, given the long history of animosity between the two. After the confrontation, he tells Ross and Demelza that he will no longer live in Trenwith and asks them to refuse any requests from his son Valentine to visit Nampara. They both agree to this, and ultimately, he loses his wife and home in the series, but his story concludes with a redemptive arc.
Do Ross and Demelza stay together?
Ross and Demelza’s relationship begins under some pretty unusual circumstances, as Heritage Daily reports. They first meet when Demelza is Ross’ servant, so there is a social imbalance, but over time their bond deepens. He is introduced as a brooding gentleman returning from war, while she is a miner’s daughter who is hired to work in his kitchen. Then things grow into attraction and genuine love. This does not happen without the disapproving judgment of Cornish society.
This struggle reveals Ross’ rejection of class barriers and Demelza’s resilience in navigating an entirely new social world. Throughout the series, their relationship faces numerous challenges, including financial difficulties, infidelity and societal scrutiny. Their relationship is far from perfect, especially given Ross’ lingering feelings for his former love, Elizabeth.
But across the seasons, their commitment to one another endures, per The Guardian. After the tragic death of their infant daughter Julia, who passed from diphtheria, they grew distant for a time. And Ross’ decision to visit Elizabeth and spend the night together is the reason for one of the series’ deepest rifts. Yet despite his betrayal, Demelza learns to forgive him, navigates her own brief temptation before Ross recommits to their family. By the final season, their marriage matures into one that is grounded in mutual respect, so they prove to be stronger for the hardships they’ve faced.
Does Poldark end up with Elizabeth?
Elizabeth Chynoweth (Heida Reed) is Ross’ former lover. She re-enters his life after the loss of her husband, Francis Poldark. This childhood love becomes further complicated when she marries George Warleggan, as Radio Times reports. All the unresolved feelings between the two create major tension – but especially between Ross and Demelza. Yet Elizabeth represents a connection to Ross’ past that can’t be erased. This ultimately challenges the stability of his current marriage to Demelza and a love triangle develops. Despite the complicated emotions, Ross remains devoted to Demelza, which reaffirms the strength of their marriage.
Per Digital Spy, it is Elizabeth’s death in the very end of season four (mainly dealt with in the earlier parts of season five), which complicates things further. She takes a potion to induce her labor before delivering a daughter. But soon after, she suffers post-natal complications and dies. Ross comes to her side, but it is too late, and he kisses her one last time as she is dying.
All of this, and the residual grief it brought Ross, understandably negatively impacted his marriage with his current wife, Demelza. So, although his relationships with both Elizabeth and Demelza are complicated by this swift change, he does choose his own wife.
Will ‘Poldark’ have a sixth season?
As The Independent confirms, the series concluded after five seasons purposely. The storylines of Ross, Demelza, George and other main characters had reached a natural conclusion by that time. No plans have been announced for a potential sixth season, despite fan speculation that the series may continue. Plus, as fans of know, the conclusion provided a resolution which preserved the integrity of Graham’s original novels.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many children did Ross and Demelza have?
Ross and Demelza’s marriage brought them five children: Julia, Jeremy, Clowance, Isabella-Rose and Henry. Julia tragically passed as an infant, but the others survived into adulthood.
What illness killed Julia?
Julia succumbed to sickness at the end of season one. This loss of a child was much more common in the era in which Poldark is set. This sickness, known as “putrid throat,” is now identified as diphtheria.
Is there a spinoff of Poldark?
There is no spinoff of the show, and no future projects have been confirmed.