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Series 1
"What is a week-end?"
And, of course, nearly falling over in the swivel-chair:
Lady Grantham: Good heavens, what am I sitting on!?
Matthew Crawley: Er..swivel..chair.
Lady Grantham: Another modern brainwave?
Matthew Crawley: Hardly. They were invented by Thomas Jefferson.
Lady Grantham: Why does every day involve a fight with an American?
"In situations such as this one can normally find an Italian who isn't too picky."
Let's not forget this gem, after Pamuk's death:
Lady Grantham: Of course it would happen to a foreigner. It's typical. No Englishman would dream of dying in someone else's house - especially somebody they didn't even know.
And when discussing the scandal with Cora
Lady Grantham: We can't have him assassinated. . .I suppose.
Daisy (the lowest ranking servant) actually believing she'll meet the Duke of Crowborough back in the first episode.
The Crawley's totally over the top reactions to Sybil wearing pantaloons. Downton's known for it's long reaction shots, but this scene really lingers on everyone: Cora seems on the verge of fainting, Violet is decidedly not impressed, Matthew is clearly enjoying the fun while poor Robert is just confused. Then of course you've got Branson grinning at the window, hinting he was in on Sybil's plan.
Mary's reaction is one of shock - but less "she's wearing pantaloons" shock and more a "you crazy idiot, you actually did it!" shock.
When Mary tells Matthew the story of Perseus, Sybil can be seen intently listening.
The darkly comic Mood Whiplash caused by Pamuk's death. From a passionate love scene to "He's dead. I think he's dead".
The reaction of Cora being woken up in the middle of the night to be told that she has to help Mary and Anna move a body halfway across the house. It's Black Comedy but the whole scene is awkwardly hilarious.
About Cora's pregnancy:
Robert: How could this happen?
Cora: The doctor will tell you the details by a glass of whiskey.
In the very next scene he appears in, he and the doctor are drinking whiskey!
The Dowager Countess' mini-rivalry with Mrs. Crawley is almost too much fun to watch. Their constant one-upping of each other often provides much-needed comic relief in an otherwise very dramatic series.
Violet: You are quite wonderful the way you see room for improvement wherever you look. I never knew such reforming zeal.
Isobel: I take that as a compliment.
Violet: I must have said it wrong.
After Mrs. Crawley accuses the Dowager of telling Mary to refuse Matthew until Cora's baby is born.
Dowager Countess: Your quarrel is with my daughter Rosamund. I told her to accept him, so put that in your pipe and smoke it.
Made even better by the quick shot of Carson's rather pleased reaction.
Mr. Carson's reveal of his shameful past as a stage performer, which to him seems to be on the same level as murdering someone.
And when he expects to be fired over it, Robert instead says he's rather impressed.
That said, Carson's stuffy nature can become so hilarious that it's an inside joke among some of Downton's residents. Among one of his more memorable moments is his practicing using the new telephone and getting in an argument with the operator.
Well, I dare say a lot of the things you do sound stupid to other people! *hangs up*
When Cora suggests Mary visit New York to cool off from the Pemuk scandal, Violet says she's not that desperate.
Mrs. Patmore unsuccessfully trying to inform Daisy that Thomas isn't interested in her. Daisy doesn't seem to understand what "He's not a ladies' man" and "he's a troubled soul" are supposed to mean.
"Daisy, may I ask why you are holding Lady Sybil's biscuit jar?"
When Cora says "Things are different in America", Violet says its because Americans live in wigwams.
Robert managing to say without a hint of irony how great it would be to have people serve your every need, while Carson is serving him dinner.
Miss O'Brien and Thomas get worried that Bates has planted the snuff box they stole in one of their rooms. Cut to O'Brien's room turned apart trying to find it. And Mrs Hughes at the door.
"Well you've been busy."
Violet is quite puzzled as to why Mary's so troubled by the Turkish man's death.
"One can't go to pieces at the death of every foreigner. We'd all be in a state of collapse whenever we opened a newspaper."
Mrs Patmore's cataracts cause her to accidentally put salt in the dessert. Despite the family being mortified at dinner, Mary immediately starts snorting into her napkin with laughter.
Cora tells Violet that Mary doesn't want to marry Matthew without telling him about Pamuk's death as it would be dishonorable.
Violet: She reads too many novels. One way or another, everyone goes down the aisle with half the story hidden.
Mrs Patmore's reprimands of Daisy are always priceless.
"Daisy! I sent you for a drink of water, not a trip up the Nile!"
Right before Mrs Patmore goes for her operation, she suggests that Daisy sabotage Mrs Bird's cooking so as not to upstage her own. Daisy obliges...by putting soap in the soup. And Mrs Bird switched the upstairs food with the servants', catching Daisy red-handed.
Mrs Bird also finds it Actually Pretty Funny, compliments Daisy on her loyalty and then sends her to get tomorrow's dinner.
Mrs Bird: You've not had a chance to spoil that yet, I suppose?
Daisy: I was gonna mix in some syrup of figs in but I've not done it yet.
At the last revelation you can see Gwen and Bates cracking up.
Thomas finds a silver lining in what almost happened.
"At least we'd have all been regular."
Series 2
Right after Matthew and Sir Richard have a fight, following Mary ending the engagement, and deciding to leave Downton Abbey first thing in the morning:
Sir Richard: (to Lady Grantham) I doubt we'll meet again.
Lady Grantham: Do you promise?
In the same exchange discussing the vase broken in the fight. Matthew apologizes for breaking it.
Matthew: Sorry about the vase.
Lady Grantham: Oh, don't be, don't be - it was a wedding present from a frightful aunt. I have hated it for half a century.
About Sir Richard:
Lady Grantham: It's not that I dislike him, I just don't like him.
O'Brien hazing Ethel.
Mrs Patmore and Daisy are at Sybil's request teaching her how to cook so she might be better prepared for her upcoming nursing/caretaker training. When Mrs. Patmore sees her first attempt she responds as she normally would as if she was talking to another servant.
Mrs. Patmore What in wonderland do you call that!? (Remembers who she is talking to)..I mean I do not fully understand what you are trying to do M'lady.
When Mrs. Hughes reveals that a person standing in the airing cupboard can listen to a conversation in the kitchen through a vent, so she knows why Bates suddenly left with his wife, Vera.
Carson: If I were a gentleman, I would not wish to know.
Mrs. Hughes: But you're not.
Carson: Fortunately. [closes door]
Carson, Anna and Mrs. Hughes stopping Tom's plot to throw slop on Gen. Strutt. They thought he was going to kill him!
Presumably, this was unintentional but it gets a few childish sniggers.
Robert: Still in one piece, thank God.
Matthew: Touch wood.
Robert: I never stopped touching it.
Tom arriving so he and Sybil can announce their engagement, unknown to everyone.
Tom: I'm here.
Lord Grantham: So, I can see.
Cora's increasingly horrified expression as the lovers explain their future plans.
Sybil gasping at Mary when she walks out of the sitting room when they were talking about Pamuk's death.
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Series 3
When Coras' mother is visiting, Lady Grantham has this gem.
Lady Grantham: I'm so looking forward to seeing your mother again. When I'm with her, I'm reminded of the virtues of the English.
Matthew: But isn't she American?
Lady Grantham: Exactly.
Martha arriving in Series 3 Episode 1 and unleashing the bells of hell onto Downton with her American ways. Tis very funny.
While it happens in the middle of a very serious scene, this troper found it hilarious that Robert was commended for being smart enough to use modern methods to handle the finances at Downton, thus saving it from future financial ruin, after he spent several episodes fighting tooth and nail whenever Matthew tried to implement said methods.
New footman Jimmy is irritated when Carson introduces him to the Crawleys as James:
Jimmy: I was Jimmy to Lady Anstruther.
Carson: I don't care if you were Father Christmas to Lady Anstruther!
The clash between The Dowager Countess and Cora's mother, Martha Levinson. Played to absolute perfection by Dame Maggie Smith and Shirley MacLane. A proper, aristocratic British Matriarch + An eccentric rich American matriarch = fun for everyone!
This exchange between Lady Grantham and Sybil, right before Edith's wedding:
Lady Grantham: I really think you should go to bed. No bride wants to look tired on her wedding, that means she’s anxious or up to no good.
Edith: I won't sleep a wink.
Sybil: Tonight or tomorrow?
Lady Grantham: Sybil, vulgarity is no substitute for wit.
Sybil: You started it.
It's EVERYTHING that Sybil does in this scene that sells it. She raises an eyebrow, smiles to herself when she hears "I won't sleep a wink", looks straight at camera, says her line then drinks her tea while looking away. ITS HILARIOUS.
Although this is a little sad in hindsight, when one realizes that Edith is once again the least fortunate sister even in this regard. Consider that Sybil's marriage to Tom, a handsome and fiery rebel is clearly passionate, considering how quickly she got pregnant, Mary has married the dashing and romantic Matthew and the first two episodes of season 3 made it clear that their relationship certainly does not lack passion. This impending marriage, on the other hand, does not seem likely to yield much in that department.
Becomes a "Funny Aneurysm" Moment after Edith is jilted at the altar
As everyone discusses the deadly serious topic of Branson's involvement in the burning of an English family's castle in Ireland, Violet can't help repeatedly bringing up how ugly the place was.
This exchange (about Thomas after he was outed)
Mrs Hughes: Do you think he's the first of. . .that type I've met?
Carson: I should hope so!
The Dowager Countess' disdain for the new-fangled dinner jackets.
Violet: Certainly not! Oh, do you think I might have a drink? (turns and sees it's Robert) Oh, I'm so sorry. I thought you were a waiter.
Robert Crawley, Earl of Nonchalance:
Robert: If I'd screamed blue murder every time someone tried to kiss me at Eton, I'd have gone hoarse in a month.
The look on Bates's face afterwards isn't too bad either.
Robert cementing himself as not the brightest man by suggesting he invest the family's finances with an American chap named Ponzi.
Even better, you can see Matthew facepalming at the suggestion.
Molseley dancing like a maniac after being hit by the liquor meant for O'Brien.
Robert and Violet awkwardly trying to pose for a photo with the Catholic priest who baptized Sybbie.
Cora: Are you afraid you will be converted while your back is turned?
How utterly obsessed with the cricket match Robert becomes. Thomas is allowed to keep his job mostly because he's good at the game and he is only willing to get on board with Matthew and Tom's plan to save Downton if Tom plays for the house team. He is making major decisions with long lasting repercussions purely based on fielding a team.
The following sentence comes out of Violet Crawley's mouth: "You've been reading those communist newspapers again".
Edith knows what the Scarlet Letter is. This isn't shocking - she's young and yearning for love. But the fact that Isobel (as she doesn't query the meaning like Violet does) and Mrs Hughes have read it is rather funny.
The Running Gag of Violet constantly, basically as a reflex, calling Tom "Branson" instead of by his first name. Branson is how one would properly address a chauffeur but as Tom is family now it is proper to call him by his first name. When Violet suggest Tom be made the estates agent she points out the added benefit being she can now go back to calling him Branson.

Series 1
"What is a week-end?"
And, of course, nearly falling over in the swivel-chair:
Lady Grantham: Good heavens, what am I sitting on!?
Matthew Crawley: Er..swivel..chair.
Lady Grantham: Another modern brainwave?
Matthew Crawley: Hardly. They were invented by Thomas Jefferson.
Lady Grantham: Why does every day involve a fight with an American?
"In situations such as this one can normally find an Italian who isn't too picky."
Let's not forget this gem, after Pamuk's death:
Lady Grantham: Of course it would happen to a foreigner. It's typical. No Englishman would dream of dying in someone else's house - especially somebody they didn't even know.
And when discussing the scandal with Cora
Lady Grantham: We can't have him assassinated. . .I suppose.
Daisy (the lowest ranking servant) actually believing she'll meet the Duke of Crowborough back in the first episode.
The Crawley's totally over the top reactions to Sybil wearing pantaloons. Downton's known for it's long reaction shots, but this scene really lingers on everyone: Cora seems on the verge of fainting, Violet is decidedly not impressed, Matthew is clearly enjoying the fun while poor Robert is just confused. Then of course you've got Branson grinning at the window, hinting he was in on Sybil's plan.
Mary's reaction is one of shock - but less "she's wearing pantaloons" shock and more a "you crazy idiot, you actually did it!" shock.
When Mary tells Matthew the story of Perseus, Sybil can be seen intently listening.
The darkly comic Mood Whiplash caused by Pamuk's death. From a passionate love scene to "He's dead. I think he's dead".
The reaction of Cora being woken up in the middle of the night to be told that she has to help Mary and Anna move a body halfway across the house. It's Black Comedy but the whole scene is awkwardly hilarious.
About Cora's pregnancy:
Robert: How could this happen?
Cora: The doctor will tell you the details by a glass of whiskey.
In the very next scene he appears in, he and the doctor are drinking whiskey!
The Dowager Countess' mini-rivalry with Mrs. Crawley is almost too much fun to watch. Their constant one-upping of each other often provides much-needed comic relief in an otherwise very dramatic series.
Violet: You are quite wonderful the way you see room for improvement wherever you look. I never knew such reforming zeal.
Isobel: I take that as a compliment.
Violet: I must have said it wrong.
After Mrs. Crawley accuses the Dowager of telling Mary to refuse Matthew until Cora's baby is born.
Dowager Countess: Your quarrel is with my daughter Rosamund. I told her to accept him, so put that in your pipe and smoke it.
Made even better by the quick shot of Carson's rather pleased reaction.
Mr. Carson's reveal of his shameful past as a stage performer, which to him seems to be on the same level as murdering someone.
And when he expects to be fired over it, Robert instead says he's rather impressed.
That said, Carson's stuffy nature can become so hilarious that it's an inside joke among some of Downton's residents. Among one of his more memorable moments is his practicing using the new telephone and getting in an argument with the operator.
Well, I dare say a lot of the things you do sound stupid to other people! *hangs up*
When Cora suggests Mary visit New York to cool off from the Pemuk scandal, Violet says she's not that desperate.
Mrs. Patmore unsuccessfully trying to inform Daisy that Thomas isn't interested in her. Daisy doesn't seem to understand what "He's not a ladies' man" and "he's a troubled soul" are supposed to mean.
"Daisy, may I ask why you are holding Lady Sybil's biscuit jar?"
When Cora says "Things are different in America", Violet says its because Americans live in wigwams.
Robert managing to say without a hint of irony how great it would be to have people serve your every need, while Carson is serving him dinner.
Miss O'Brien and Thomas get worried that Bates has planted the snuff box they stole in one of their rooms. Cut to O'Brien's room turned apart trying to find it. And Mrs Hughes at the door.
"Well you've been busy."
Violet is quite puzzled as to why Mary's so troubled by the Turkish man's death.
"One can't go to pieces at the death of every foreigner. We'd all be in a state of collapse whenever we opened a newspaper."
Mrs Patmore's cataracts cause her to accidentally put salt in the dessert. Despite the family being mortified at dinner, Mary immediately starts snorting into her napkin with laughter.
Cora tells Violet that Mary doesn't want to marry Matthew without telling him about Pamuk's death as it would be dishonorable.
Violet: She reads too many novels. One way or another, everyone goes down the aisle with half the story hidden.
Mrs Patmore's reprimands of Daisy are always priceless.
"Daisy! I sent you for a drink of water, not a trip up the Nile!"
Right before Mrs Patmore goes for her operation, she suggests that Daisy sabotage Mrs Bird's cooking so as not to upstage her own. Daisy obliges...by putting soap in the soup. And Mrs Bird switched the upstairs food with the servants', catching Daisy red-handed.
Mrs Bird also finds it Actually Pretty Funny, compliments Daisy on her loyalty and then sends her to get tomorrow's dinner.
Mrs Bird: You've not had a chance to spoil that yet, I suppose?
Daisy: I was gonna mix in some syrup of figs in but I've not done it yet.
At the last revelation you can see Gwen and Bates cracking up.
Thomas finds a silver lining in what almost happened.
"At least we'd have all been regular."
Series 2
Right after Matthew and Sir Richard have a fight, following Mary ending the engagement, and deciding to leave Downton Abbey first thing in the morning:
Sir Richard: (to Lady Grantham) I doubt we'll meet again.
Lady Grantham: Do you promise?
In the same exchange discussing the vase broken in the fight. Matthew apologizes for breaking it.
Matthew: Sorry about the vase.
Lady Grantham: Oh, don't be, don't be - it was a wedding present from a frightful aunt. I have hated it for half a century.
About Sir Richard:
Lady Grantham: It's not that I dislike him, I just don't like him.
O'Brien hazing Ethel.
Mrs Patmore and Daisy are at Sybil's request teaching her how to cook so she might be better prepared for her upcoming nursing/caretaker training. When Mrs. Patmore sees her first attempt she responds as she normally would as if she was talking to another servant.
Mrs. Patmore What in wonderland do you call that!? (Remembers who she is talking to)..I mean I do not fully understand what you are trying to do M'lady.
When Mrs. Hughes reveals that a person standing in the airing cupboard can listen to a conversation in the kitchen through a vent, so she knows why Bates suddenly left with his wife, Vera.
Carson: If I were a gentleman, I would not wish to know.
Mrs. Hughes: But you're not.
Carson: Fortunately. [closes door]
Carson, Anna and Mrs. Hughes stopping Tom's plot to throw slop on Gen. Strutt. They thought he was going to kill him!
Presumably, this was unintentional but it gets a few childish sniggers.
Robert: Still in one piece, thank God.
Matthew: Touch wood.
Robert: I never stopped touching it.
Tom arriving so he and Sybil can announce their engagement, unknown to everyone.
Tom: I'm here.
Lord Grantham: So, I can see.
Cora's increasingly horrified expression as the lovers explain their future plans.
Sybil gasping at Mary when she walks out of the sitting room when they were talking about Pamuk's death.
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Series 3
When Coras' mother is visiting, Lady Grantham has this gem.
Lady Grantham: I'm so looking forward to seeing your mother again. When I'm with her, I'm reminded of the virtues of the English.
Matthew: But isn't she American?
Lady Grantham: Exactly.
Martha arriving in Series 3 Episode 1 and unleashing the bells of hell onto Downton with her American ways. Tis very funny.
While it happens in the middle of a very serious scene, this troper found it hilarious that Robert was commended for being smart enough to use modern methods to handle the finances at Downton, thus saving it from future financial ruin, after he spent several episodes fighting tooth and nail whenever Matthew tried to implement said methods.
New footman Jimmy is irritated when Carson introduces him to the Crawleys as James:
Jimmy: I was Jimmy to Lady Anstruther.
Carson: I don't care if you were Father Christmas to Lady Anstruther!
The clash between The Dowager Countess and Cora's mother, Martha Levinson. Played to absolute perfection by Dame Maggie Smith and Shirley MacLane. A proper, aristocratic British Matriarch + An eccentric rich American matriarch = fun for everyone!
This exchange between Lady Grantham and Sybil, right before Edith's wedding:
Lady Grantham: I really think you should go to bed. No bride wants to look tired on her wedding, that means she’s anxious or up to no good.
Edith: I won't sleep a wink.
Sybil: Tonight or tomorrow?
Lady Grantham: Sybil, vulgarity is no substitute for wit.
Sybil: You started it.
It's EVERYTHING that Sybil does in this scene that sells it. She raises an eyebrow, smiles to herself when she hears "I won't sleep a wink", looks straight at camera, says her line then drinks her tea while looking away. ITS HILARIOUS.
Although this is a little sad in hindsight, when one realizes that Edith is once again the least fortunate sister even in this regard. Consider that Sybil's marriage to Tom, a handsome and fiery rebel is clearly passionate, considering how quickly she got pregnant, Mary has married the dashing and romantic Matthew and the first two episodes of season 3 made it clear that their relationship certainly does not lack passion. This impending marriage, on the other hand, does not seem likely to yield much in that department.
Becomes a "Funny Aneurysm" Moment after Edith is jilted at the altar
As everyone discusses the deadly serious topic of Branson's involvement in the burning of an English family's castle in Ireland, Violet can't help repeatedly bringing up how ugly the place was.
This exchange (about Thomas after he was outed)
Mrs Hughes: Do you think he's the first of. . .that type I've met?
Carson: I should hope so!
The Dowager Countess' disdain for the new-fangled dinner jackets.
Violet: Certainly not! Oh, do you think I might have a drink? (turns and sees it's Robert) Oh, I'm so sorry. I thought you were a waiter.
Robert Crawley, Earl of Nonchalance:
Robert: If I'd screamed blue murder every time someone tried to kiss me at Eton, I'd have gone hoarse in a month.
The look on Bates's face afterwards isn't too bad either.
Robert cementing himself as not the brightest man by suggesting he invest the family's finances with an American chap named Ponzi.
Even better, you can see Matthew facepalming at the suggestion.
Molseley dancing like a maniac after being hit by the liquor meant for O'Brien.
Robert and Violet awkwardly trying to pose for a photo with the Catholic priest who baptized Sybbie.
Cora: Are you afraid you will be converted while your back is turned?
How utterly obsessed with the cricket match Robert becomes. Thomas is allowed to keep his job mostly because he's good at the game and he is only willing to get on board with Matthew and Tom's plan to save Downton if Tom plays for the house team. He is making major decisions with long lasting repercussions purely based on fielding a team.
The following sentence comes out of Violet Crawley's mouth: "You've been reading those communist newspapers again".
Edith knows what the Scarlet Letter is. This isn't shocking - she's young and yearning for love. But the fact that Isobel (as she doesn't query the meaning like Violet does) and Mrs Hughes have read it is rather funny.
The Running Gag of Violet constantly, basically as a reflex, calling Tom "Branson" instead of by his first name. Branson is how one would properly address a chauffeur but as Tom is family now it is proper to call him by his first name. When Violet suggest Tom be made the estates agent she points out the added benefit being she can now go back to calling him Branson.

Series 1
"What is a week-end?"
And, of course, nearly falling over in the swivel-chair:
Lady Grantham: Good heavens, what am I sitting on!?
Matthew Crawley: Er..swivel..chair.
Lady Grantham: Another modern brainwave?
Matthew Crawley: Hardly. They were invented by Thomas Jefferson.
Lady Grantham: Why does every day involve a fight with an American?
"In situations such as this one can normally find an Italian who isn't too picky."
Let's not forget this gem, after Pamuk's death:
Lady Grantham: Of course it would happen to a foreigner. It's typical. No Englishman would dream of dying in someone else's house - especially somebody they didn't even know.
And when discussing the scandal with Cora
Lady Grantham: We can't have him assassinated. . .I suppose.
Daisy (the lowest ranking servant) actually believing she'll meet the Duke of Crowborough back in the first episode.
The Crawley's totally over the top reactions to Sybil wearing pantaloons. Downton's known for it's long reaction shots, but this scene really lingers on everyone: Cora seems on the verge of fainting, Violet is decidedly not impressed, Matthew is clearly enjoying the fun while poor Robert is just confused. Then of course you've got Branson grinning at the window, hinting he was in on Sybil's plan.
Mary's reaction is one of shock - but less "she's wearing pantaloons" shock and more a "you crazy idiot, you actually did it!" shock.
When Mary tells Matthew the story of Perseus, Sybil can be seen intently listening.
The darkly comic Mood Whiplash caused by Pamuk's death. From a passionate love scene to "He's dead. I think he's dead".
The reaction of Cora being woken up in the middle of the night to be told that she has to help Mary and Anna move a body halfway across the house. It's Black Comedy but the whole scene is awkwardly hilarious.
About Cora's pregnancy:
Robert: How could this happen?
Cora: The doctor will tell you the details by a glass of whiskey.
In the very next scene he appears in, he and the doctor are drinking whiskey!
The Dowager Countess' mini-rivalry with Mrs. Crawley is almost too much fun to watch. Their constant one-upping of each other often provides much-needed comic relief in an otherwise very dramatic series.
Violet: You are quite wonderful the way you see room for improvement wherever you look. I never knew such reforming zeal.
Isobel: I take that as a compliment.
Violet: I must have said it wrong.
After Mrs. Crawley accuses the Dowager of telling Mary to refuse Matthew until Cora's baby is born.
Dowager Countess: Your quarrel is with my daughter Rosamund. I told her to accept him, so put that in your pipe and smoke it.
Made even better by the quick shot of Carson's rather pleased reaction.
Mr. Carson's reveal of his shameful past as a stage performer, which to him seems to be on the same level as murdering someone.
And when he expects to be fired over it, Robert instead says he's rather impressed.
That said, Carson's stuffy nature can become so hilarious that it's an inside joke among some of Downton's residents. Among one of his more memorable moments is his practicing using the new telephone and getting in an argument with the operator.
Well, I dare say a lot of the things you do sound stupid to other people! *hangs up*
When Cora suggests Mary visit New York to cool off from the Pemuk scandal, Violet says she's not that desperate.
Mrs. Patmore unsuccessfully trying to inform Daisy that Thomas isn't interested in her. Daisy doesn't seem to understand what "He's not a ladies' man" and "he's a troubled soul" are supposed to mean.
"Daisy, may I ask why you are holding Lady Sybil's biscuit jar?"
When Cora says "Things are different in America", Violet says its because Americans live in wigwams.
Robert managing to say without a hint of irony how great it would be to have people serve your every need, while Carson is serving him dinner.
Miss O'Brien and Thomas get worried that Bates has planted the snuff box they stole in one of their rooms. Cut to O'Brien's room turned apart trying to find it. And Mrs Hughes at the door.
"Well you've been busy."
Violet is quite puzzled as to why Mary's so troubled by the Turkish man's death.
"One can't go to pieces at the death of every foreigner. We'd all be in a state of collapse whenever we opened a newspaper."
Mrs Patmore's cataracts cause her to accidentally put salt in the dessert. Despite the family being mortified at dinner, Mary immediately starts snorting into her napkin with laughter.
Cora tells Violet that Mary doesn't want to marry Matthew without telling him about Pamuk's death as it would be dishonorable.
Violet: She reads too many novels. One way or another, everyone goes down the aisle with half the story hidden.
Mrs Patmore's reprimands of Daisy are always priceless.
"Daisy! I sent you for a drink of water, not a trip up the Nile!"
Right before Mrs Patmore goes for her operation, she suggests that Daisy sabotage Mrs Bird's cooking so as not to upstage her own. Daisy obliges...by putting soap in the soup. And Mrs Bird switched the upstairs food with the servants', catching Daisy red-handed.
Mrs Bird also finds it Actually Pretty Funny, compliments Daisy on her loyalty and then sends her to get tomorrow's dinner.
Mrs Bird: You've not had a chance to spoil that yet, I suppose?
Daisy: I was gonna mix in some syrup of figs in but I've not done it yet.
At the last revelation you can see Gwen and Bates cracking up.
Thomas finds a silver lining in what almost happened.
"At least we'd have all been regular."
Series 2
Right after Matthew and Sir Richard have a fight, following Mary ending the engagement, and deciding to leave Downton Abbey first thing in the morning:
Sir Richard: (to Lady Grantham) I doubt we'll meet again.
Lady Grantham: Do you promise?
In the same exchange discussing the vase broken in the fight. Matthew apologizes for breaking it.
Matthew: Sorry about the vase.
Lady Grantham: Oh, don't be, don't be - it was a wedding present from a frightful aunt. I have hated it for half a century.
About Sir Richard:
Lady Grantham: It's not that I dislike him, I just don't like him.
O'Brien hazing Ethel.
Mrs Patmore and Daisy are at Sybil's request teaching her how to cook so she might be better prepared for her upcoming nursing/caretaker training. When Mrs. Patmore sees her first attempt she responds as she normally would as if she was talking to another servant.
Mrs. Patmore What in wonderland do you call that!? (Remembers who she is talking to)..I mean I do not fully understand what you are trying to do M'lady.
When Mrs. Hughes reveals that a person standing in the airing cupboard can listen to a conversation in the kitchen through a vent, so she knows why Bates suddenly left with his wife, Vera.
Carson: If I were a gentleman, I would not wish to know.
Mrs. Hughes: But you're not.
Carson: Fortunately. [closes door]
Carson, Anna and Mrs. Hughes stopping Tom's plot to throw slop on Gen. Strutt. They thought he was going to kill him!
Presumably, this was unintentional but it gets a few childish sniggers.
Robert: Still in one piece, thank God.
Matthew: Touch wood.
Robert: I never stopped touching it.
Tom arriving so he and Sybil can announce their engagement, unknown to everyone.
Tom: I'm here.
Lord Grantham: So, I can see.
Cora's increasingly horrified expression as the lovers explain their future plans.
Sybil gasping at Mary when she walks out of the sitting room when they were talking about Pamuk's death.
Advertisement:

Series 3
When Coras' mother is visiting, Lady Grantham has this gem.
Lady Grantham: I'm so looking forward to seeing your mother again. When I'm with her, I'm reminded of the virtues of the English.
Matthew: But isn't she American?
Lady Grantham: Exactly.
Martha arriving in Series 3 Episode 1 and unleashing the bells of hell onto Downton with her American ways. Tis very funny.
While it happens in the middle of a very serious scene, this troper found it hilarious that Robert was commended for being smart enough to use modern methods to handle the finances at Downton, thus saving it from future financial ruin, after he spent several episodes fighting tooth and nail whenever Matthew tried to implement said methods.
New footman Jimmy is irritated when Carson introduces him to the Crawleys as James:
Jimmy: I was Jimmy to Lady Anstruther.
Carson: I don't care if you were Father Christmas to Lady Anstruther!
The clash between The Dowager Countess and Cora's mother, Martha Levinson. Played to absolute perfection by Dame Maggie Smith and Shirley MacLane. A proper, aristocratic British Matriarch + An eccentric rich American matriarch = fun for everyone!
This exchange between Lady Grantham and Sybil, right before Edith's wedding:
Lady Grantham: I really think you should go to bed. No bride wants to look tired on her wedding, that means she’s anxious or up to no good.
Edith: I won't sleep a wink.
Sybil: Tonight or tomorrow?
Lady Grantham: Sybil, vulgarity is no substitute for wit.
Sybil: You started it.
It's EVERYTHING that Sybil does in this scene that sells it. She raises an eyebrow, smiles to herself when she hears "I won't sleep a wink", looks straight at camera, says her line then drinks her tea while looking away. ITS HILARIOUS.
Although this is a little sad in hindsight, when one realizes that Edith is once again the least fortunate sister even in this regard. Consider that Sybil's marriage to Tom, a handsome and fiery rebel is clearly passionate, considering how quickly she got pregnant, Mary has married the dashing and romantic Matthew and the first two episodes of season 3 made it clear that their relationship certainly does not lack passion. This impending marriage, on the other hand, does not seem likely to yield much in that department.
Becomes a "Funny Aneurysm" Moment after Edith is jilted at the altar
As everyone discusses the deadly serious topic of Branson's involvement in the burning of an English family's castle in Ireland, Violet can't help repeatedly bringing up how ugly the place was.
This exchange (about Thomas after he was outed)
Mrs Hughes: Do you think he's the first of. . .that type I've met?
Carson: I should hope so!
The Dowager Countess' disdain for the new-fangled dinner jackets.
Violet: Certainly not! Oh, do you think I might have a drink? (turns and sees it's Robert) Oh, I'm so sorry. I thought you were a waiter.
Robert Crawley, Earl of Nonchalance:
Robert: If I'd screamed blue murder every time someone tried to kiss me at Eton, I'd have gone hoarse in a month.
The look on Bates's face afterwards isn't too bad either.
Robert cementing himself as not the brightest man by suggesting he invest the family's finances with an American chap named Ponzi.
Even better, you can see Matthew facepalming at the suggestion.
Molseley dancing like a maniac after being hit by the liquor meant for O'Brien.
Robert and Violet awkwardly trying to pose for a photo with the Catholic priest who baptized Sybbie.
Cora: Are you afraid you will be converted while your back is turned?
How utterly obsessed with the cricket match Robert becomes. Thomas is allowed to keep his job mostly because he's good at the game and he is only willing to get on board with Matthew and Tom's plan to save Downton if Tom plays for the house team. He is making major decisions with long lasting repercussions purely based on fielding a team.
The following sentence comes out of Violet Crawley's mouth: "You've been reading those communist newspapers again".
Edith knows what the Scarlet Letter is. This isn't shocking - she's young and yearning for love. But the fact that Isobel (as she doesn't query the meaning like Violet does) and Mrs Hughes have read it is rather funny.
The Running Gag of Violet constantly, basically as a reflex, calling Tom "Branson" instead of by his first name. Branson is how one would properly address a chauffeur but as Tom is family now it is proper to call him by his first name. When Violet suggest Tom be made the estates agent she points out the added benefit being she can now go back to calling him Branson.

Series 1
"What is a week-end?"
And, of course, nearly falling over in the swivel-chair:
Lady Grantham: Good heavens, what am I sitting on!?
Matthew Crawley: Er..swivel..chair.
Lady Grantham: Another modern brainwave?
Matthew Crawley: Hardly. They were invented by Thomas Jefferson.
Lady Grantham: Why does every day involve a fight with an American?
"In situations such as this one can normally find an Italian who isn't too picky."
Let's not forget this gem, after Pamuk's death:
Lady Grantham: Of course it would happen to a foreigner. It's typical. No Englishman would dream of dying in someone else's house - especially somebody they didn't even know.
And when discussing the scandal with Cora
Lady Grantham: We can't have him assassinated. . .I suppose.
Daisy (the lowest ranking servant) actually believing she'll meet the Duke of Crowborough back in the first episode.
The Crawley's totally over the top reactions to Sybil wearing pantaloons. Downton's known for it's long reaction shots, but this scene really lingers on everyone: Cora seems on the verge of fainting, Violet is decidedly not impressed, Matthew is clearly enjoying the fun while poor Robert is just confused. Then of course you've got Branson grinning at the window, hinting he was in on Sybil's plan.
Mary's reaction is one of shock - but less "she's wearing pantaloons" shock and more a "you crazy idiot, you actually did it!" shock.
When Mary tells Matthew the story of Perseus, Sybil can be seen intently listening.
The darkly comic Mood Whiplash caused by Pamuk's death. From a passionate love scene to "He's dead. I think he's dead".
The reaction of Cora being woken up in the middle of the night to be told that she has to help Mary and Anna move a body halfway across the house. It's Black Comedy but the whole scene is awkwardly hilarious.
About Cora's pregnancy:
Robert: How could this happen?
Cora: The doctor will tell you the details by a glass of whiskey.
In the very next scene he appears in, he and the doctor are drinking whiskey!
The Dowager Countess' mini-rivalry with Mrs. Crawley is almost too much fun to watch. Their constant one-upping of each other often provides much-needed comic relief in an otherwise very dramatic series.
Violet: You are quite wonderful the way you see room for improvement wherever you look. I never knew such reforming zeal.
Isobel: I take that as a compliment.
Violet: I must have said it wrong.
After Mrs. Crawley accuses the Dowager of telling Mary to refuse Matthew until Cora's baby is born.
Dowager Countess: Your quarrel is with my daughter Rosamund. I told her to accept him, so put that in your pipe and smoke it.
Made even better by the quick shot of Carson's rather pleased reaction.
Mr. Carson's reveal of his shameful past as a stage performer, which to him seems to be on the same level as murdering someone.
And when he expects to be fired over it, Robert instead says he's rather impressed.
That said, Carson's stuffy nature can become so hilarious that it's an inside joke among some of Downton's residents. Among one of his more memorable moments is his practicing using the new telephone and getting in an argument with the operator.
Well, I dare say a lot of the things you do sound stupid to other people! *hangs up*
When Cora suggests Mary visit New York to cool off from the Pemuk scandal, Violet says she's not that desperate.
Mrs. Patmore unsuccessfully trying to inform Daisy that Thomas isn't interested in her. Daisy doesn't seem to understand what "He's not a ladies' man" and "he's a troubled soul" are supposed to mean.
"Daisy, may I ask why you are holding Lady Sybil's biscuit jar?"
When Cora says "Things are different in America", Violet says its because Americans live in wigwams.
Robert managing to say without a hint of irony how great it would be to have people serve your every need, while Carson is serving him dinner.
Miss O'Brien and Thomas get worried that Bates has planted the snuff box they stole in one of their rooms. Cut to O'Brien's room turned apart trying to find it. And Mrs Hughes at the door.
"Well you've been busy."
Violet is quite puzzled as to why Mary's so troubled by the Turkish man's death.
"One can't go to pieces at the death of every foreigner. We'd all be in a state of collapse whenever we opened a newspaper."
Mrs Patmore's cataracts cause her to accidentally put salt in the dessert. Despite the family being mortified at dinner, Mary immediately starts snorting into her napkin with laughter.
Cora tells Violet that Mary doesn't want to marry Matthew without telling him about Pamuk's death as it would be dishonorable.
Violet: She reads too many novels. One way or another, everyone goes down the aisle with half the story hidden.
Mrs Patmore's reprimands of Daisy are always priceless.
"Daisy! I sent you for a drink of water, not a trip up the Nile!"
Right before Mrs Patmore goes for her operation, she suggests that Daisy sabotage Mrs Bird's cooking so as not to upstage her own. Daisy obliges...by putting soap in the soup. And Mrs Bird switched the upstairs food with the servants', catching Daisy red-handed.
Mrs Bird also finds it Actually Pretty Funny, compliments Daisy on her loyalty and then sends her to get tomorrow's dinner.
Mrs Bird: You've not had a chance to spoil that yet, I suppose?
Daisy: I was gonna mix in some syrup of figs in but I've not done it yet.
At the last revelation you can see Gwen and Bates cracking up.
Thomas finds a silver lining in what almost happened.
"At least we'd have all been regular."
Series 2
Right after Matthew and Sir Richard have a fight, following Mary ending the engagement, and deciding to leave Downton Abbey first thing in the morning:
Sir Richard: (to Lady Grantham) I doubt we'll meet again.
Lady Grantham: Do you promise?
In the same exchange discussing the vase broken in the fight. Matthew apologizes for breaking it.
Matthew: Sorry about the vase.
Lady Grantham: Oh, don't be, don't be - it was a wedding present from a frightful aunt. I have hated it for half a century.
About Sir Richard:
Lady Grantham: It's not that I dislike him, I just don't like him.
O'Brien hazing Ethel.
Mrs Patmore and Daisy are at Sybil's request teaching her how to cook so she might be better prepared for her upcoming nursing/caretaker training. When Mrs. Patmore sees her first attempt she responds as she normally would as if she was talking to another servant.
Mrs. Patmore What in wonderland do you call that!? (Remembers who she is talking to)..I mean I do not fully understand what you are trying to do M'lady.
When Mrs. Hughes reveals that a person standing in the airing cupboard can listen to a conversation in the kitchen through a vent, so she knows why Bates suddenly left with his wife, Vera.
Carson: If I were a gentleman, I would not wish to know.
Mrs. Hughes: But you're not.
Carson: Fortunately. [closes door]
Carson, Anna and Mrs. Hughes stopping Tom's plot to throw slop on Gen. Strutt. They thought he was going to kill him!
Presumably, this was unintentional but it gets a few childish sniggers.
Robert: Still in one piece, thank God.
Matthew: Touch wood.
Robert: I never stopped touching it.
Tom arriving so he and Sybil can announce their engagement, unknown to everyone.
Tom: I'm here.
Lord Grantham: So, I can see.
Cora's increasingly horrified expression as the lovers explain their future plans.
Sybil gasping at Mary when she walks out of the sitting room when they were talking about Pamuk's death.
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Series 3
When Coras' mother is visiting, Lady Grantham has this gem.
Lady Grantham: I'm so looking forward to seeing your mother again. When I'm with her, I'm reminded of the virtues of the English.
Matthew: But isn't she American?
Lady Grantham: Exactly.
Martha arriving in Series 3 Episode 1 and unleashing the bells of hell onto Downton with her American ways. Tis very funny.
While it happens in the middle of a very serious scene, this troper found it hilarious that Robert was commended for being smart enough to use modern methods to handle the finances at Downton, thus saving it from future financial ruin, after he spent several episodes fighting tooth and nail whenever Matthew tried to implement said methods.
New footman Jimmy is irritated when Carson introduces him to the Crawleys as James:
Jimmy: I was Jimmy to Lady Anstruther.
Carson: I don't care if you were Father Christmas to Lady Anstruther!
The clash between The Dowager Countess and Cora's mother, Martha Levinson. Played to absolute perfection by Dame Maggie Smith and Shirley MacLane. A proper, aristocratic British Matriarch + An eccentric rich American matriarch = fun for everyone!
This exchange between Lady Grantham and Sybil, right before Edith's wedding:
Lady Grantham: I really think you should go to bed. No bride wants to look tired on her wedding, that means she’s anxious or up to no good.
Edith: I won't sleep a wink.
Sybil: Tonight or tomorrow?
Lady Grantham: Sybil, vulgarity is no substitute for wit.
Sybil: You started it.
It's EVERYTHING that Sybil does in this scene that sells it. She raises an eyebrow, smiles to herself when she hears "I won't sleep a wink", looks straight at camera, says her line then drinks her tea while looking away. ITS HILARIOUS.
Although this is a little sad in hindsight, when one realizes that Edith is once again the least fortunate sister even in this regard. Consider that Sybil's marriage to Tom, a handsome and fiery rebel is clearly passionate, considering how quickly she got pregnant, Mary has married the dashing and romantic Matthew and the first two episodes of season 3 made it clear that their relationship certainly does not lack passion. This impending marriage, on the other hand, does not seem likely to yield much in that department.
Becomes a "Funny Aneurysm" Moment after Edith is jilted at the altar
As everyone discusses the deadly serious topic of Branson's involvement in the burning of an English family's castle in Ireland, Violet can't help repeatedly bringing up how ugly the place was.
This exchange (about Thomas after he was outed)
Mrs Hughes: Do you think he's the first of. . .that type I've met?
Carson: I should hope so!
The Dowager Countess' disdain for the new-fangled dinner jackets.
Violet: Certainly not! Oh, do you think I might have a drink? (turns and sees it's Robert) Oh, I'm so sorry. I thought you were a waiter.
Robert Crawley, Earl of Nonchalance:
Robert: If I'd screamed blue murder every time someone tried to kiss me at Eton, I'd have gone hoarse in a month.
The look on Bates's face afterwards isn't too bad either.
Robert cementing himself as not the brightest man by suggesting he invest the family's finances with an American chap named Ponzi.
Even better, you can see Matthew facepalming at the suggestion.
Molseley dancing like a maniac after being hit by the liquor meant for O'Brien.
Robert and Violet awkwardly trying to pose for a photo with the Catholic priest who baptized Sybbie.
Cora: Are you afraid you will be converted while your back is turned?
How utterly obsessed with the cricket match Robert becomes. Thomas is allowed to keep his job mostly because he's good at the game and he is only willing to get on board with Matthew and Tom's plan to save Downton if Tom plays for the house team. He is making major decisions with long lasting repercussions purely based on fielding a team.
The following sentence comes out of Violet Crawley's mouth: "You've been reading those communist newspapers again".
Edith knows what the Scarlet Letter is. This isn't shocking - she's young and yearning for love. But the fact that Isobel (as she doesn't query the meaning like Violet does) and Mrs Hughes have read it is rather funny.
The Running Gag of Violet constantly, basically as a reflex, calling Tom "Branson" instead of by his first name. Branson is how one would properly address a chauffeur but as Tom is family now it is proper to call him by his first name. When Violet suggest Tom be made the estates agent she points out the added benefit being she can now go back to calling him Branson.

Series 1
"What is a week-end?"
And, of course, nearly falling over in the swivel-chair:
Lady Grantham: Good heavens, what am I sitting on!?
Matthew Crawley: Er..swivel..chair.
Lady Grantham: Another modern brainwave?
Matthew Crawley: Hardly. They were invented by Thomas Jefferson.
Lady Grantham: Why does every day involve a fight with an American?
"In situations such as this one can normally find an Italian who isn't too picky."
Let's not forget this gem, after Pamuk's death:
Lady Grantham: Of course it would happen to a foreigner. It's typical. No Englishman would dream of dying in someone else's house - especially somebody they didn't even know.
And when discussing the scandal with Cora
Lady Grantham: We can't have him assassinated. . .I suppose.
Daisy (the lowest ranking servant) actually believing she'll meet the Duke of Crowborough back in the first episode.
The Crawley's totally over the top reactions to Sybil wearing pantaloons. Downton's known for it's long reaction shots, but this scene really lingers on everyone: Cora seems on the verge of fainting, Violet is decidedly not impressed, Matthew is clearly enjoying the fun while poor Robert is just confused. Then of course you've got Branson grinning at the window, hinting he was in on Sybil's plan.
Mary's reaction is one of shock - but less "she's wearing pantaloons" shock and more a "you crazy idiot, you actually did it!" shock.
When Mary tells Matthew the story of Perseus, Sybil can be seen intently listening.
The darkly comic Mood Whiplash caused by Pamuk's death. From a passionate love scene to "He's dead. I think he's dead".
The reaction of Cora being woken up in the middle of the night to be told that she has to help Mary and Anna move a body halfway across the house. It's Black Comedy but the whole scene is awkwardly hilarious.
About Cora's pregnancy:
Robert: How could this happen?
Cora: The doctor will tell you the details by a glass of whiskey.
In the very next scene he appears in, he and the doctor are drinking whiskey!
The Dowager Countess' mini-rivalry with Mrs. Crawley is almost too much fun to watch. Their constant one-upping of each other often provides much-needed comic relief in an otherwise very dramatic series.
Violet: You are quite wonderful the way you see room for improvement wherever you look. I never knew such reforming zeal.
Isobel: I take that as a compliment.
Violet: I must have said it wrong.
After Mrs. Crawley accuses the Dowager of telling Mary to refuse Matthew until Cora's baby is born.
Dowager Countess: Your quarrel is with my daughter Rosamund. I told her to accept him, so put that in your pipe and smoke it.
Made even better by the quick shot of Carson's rather pleased reaction.
Mr. Carson's reveal of his shameful past as a stage performer, which to him seems to be on the same level as murdering someone.
And when he expects to be fired over it, Robert instead says he's rather impressed.
That said, Carson's stuffy nature can become so hilarious that it's an inside joke among some of Downton's residents. Among one of his more memorable moments is his practicing using the new telephone and getting in an argument with the operator.
Well, I dare say a lot of the things you do sound stupid to other people! *hangs up*
When Cora suggests Mary visit New York to cool off from the Pemuk scandal, Violet says she's not that desperate.
Mrs. Patmore unsuccessfully trying to inform Daisy that Thomas isn't interested in her. Daisy doesn't seem to understand what "He's not a ladies' man" and "he's a troubled soul" are supposed to mean.
"Daisy, may I ask why you are holding Lady Sybil's biscuit jar?"
When Cora says "Things are different in America", Violet says its because Americans live in wigwams.
Robert managing to say without a hint of irony how great it would be to have people serve your every need, while Carson is serving him dinner.
Miss O'Brien and Thomas get worried that Bates has planted the snuff box they stole in one of their rooms. Cut to O'Brien's room turned apart trying to find it. And Mrs Hughes at the door.
"Well you've been busy."
Violet is quite puzzled as to why Mary's so troubled by the Turkish man's death.
"One can't go to pieces at the death of every foreigner. We'd all be in a state of collapse whenever we opened a newspaper."
Mrs Patmore's cataracts cause her to accidentally put salt in the dessert. Despite the family being mortified at dinner, Mary immediately starts snorting into her napkin with laughter.
Cora tells Violet that Mary doesn't want to marry Matthew without telling him about Pamuk's death as it would be dishonorable.
Violet: She reads too many novels. One way or another, everyone goes down the aisle with half the story hidden.
Mrs Patmore's reprimands of Daisy are always priceless.
"Daisy! I sent you for a drink of water, not a trip up the Nile!"
Right before Mrs Patmore goes for her operation, she suggests that Daisy sabotage Mrs Bird's cooking so as not to upstage her own. Daisy obliges...by putting soap in the soup. And Mrs Bird switched the upstairs food with the servants', catching Daisy red-handed.
Mrs Bird also finds it Actually Pretty Funny, compliments Daisy on her loyalty and then sends her to get tomorrow's dinner.
Mrs Bird: You've not had a chance to spoil that yet, I suppose?
Daisy: I was gonna mix in some syrup of figs in but I've not done it yet.
At the last revelation you can see Gwen and Bates cracking up.
Thomas finds a silver lining in what almost happened.
"At least we'd have all been regular."
Series 2
Right after Matthew and Sir Richard have a fight, following Mary ending the engagement, and deciding to leave Downton Abbey first thing in the morning:
Sir Richard: (to Lady Grantham) I doubt we'll meet again.
Lady Grantham: Do you promise?
In the same exchange discussing the vase broken in the fight. Matthew apologizes for breaking it.
Matthew: Sorry about the vase.
Lady Grantham: Oh, don't be, don't be - it was a wedding present from a frightful aunt. I have hated it for half a century.
About Sir Richard:
Lady Grantham: It's not that I dislike him, I just don't like him.
O'Brien hazing Ethel.
Mrs Patmore and Daisy are at Sybil's request teaching her how to cook so she might be better prepared for her upcoming nursing/caretaker training. When Mrs. Patmore sees her first attempt she responds as she normally would as if she was talking to another servant.
Mrs. Patmore What in wonderland do you call that!? (Remembers who she is talking to)..I mean I do not fully understand what you are trying to do M'lady.
When Mrs. Hughes reveals that a person standing in the airing cupboard can listen to a conversation in the kitchen through a vent, so she knows why Bates suddenly left with his wife, Vera.
Carson: If I were a gentleman, I would not wish to know.
Mrs. Hughes: But you're not.
Carson: Fortunately. [closes door]
Carson, Anna and Mrs. Hughes stopping Tom's plot to throw slop on Gen. Strutt. They thought he was going to kill him!
Presumably, this was unintentional but it gets a few childish sniggers.
Robert: Still in one piece, thank God.
Matthew: Touch wood.
Robert: I never stopped touching it.
Tom arriving so he and Sybil can announce their engagement, unknown to everyone.
Tom: I'm here.
Lord Grantham: So, I can see.
Cora's increasingly horrified expression as the lovers explain their future plans.
Sybil gasping at Mary when she walks out of the sitting room when they were talking about Pamuk's death.
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Series 3
When Coras' mother is visiting, Lady Grantham has this gem.
Lady Grantham: I'm so looking forward to seeing your mother again. When I'm with her, I'm reminded of the virtues of the English.
Matthew: But isn't she American?
Lady Grantham: Exactly.
Martha arriving in Series 3 Episode 1 and unleashing the bells of hell onto Downton with her American ways. Tis very funny.
While it happens in the middle of a very serious scene, this troper found it hilarious that Robert was commended for being smart enough to use modern methods to handle the finances at Downton, thus saving it from future financial ruin, after he spent several episodes fighting tooth and nail whenever Matthew tried to implement said methods.
New footman Jimmy is irritated when Carson introduces him to the Crawleys as James:
Jimmy: I was Jimmy to Lady Anstruther.
Carson: I don't care if you were Father Christmas to Lady Anstruther!
The clash between The Dowager Countess and Cora's mother, Martha Levinson. Played to absolute perfection by Dame Maggie Smith and Shirley MacLane. A proper, aristocratic British Matriarch + An eccentric rich American matriarch = fun for everyone!
This exchange between Lady Grantham and Sybil, right before Edith's wedding:
Lady Grantham: I really think you should go to bed. No bride wants to look tired on her wedding, that means she’s anxious or up to no good.
Edith: I won't sleep a wink.
Sybil: Tonight or tomorrow?
Lady Grantham: Sybil, vulgarity is no substitute for wit.
Sybil: You started it.
It's EVERYTHING that Sybil does in this scene that sells it. She raises an eyebrow, smiles to herself when she hears "I won't sleep a wink", looks straight at camera, says her line then drinks her tea while looking away. ITS HILARIOUS.
Although this is a little sad in hindsight, when one realizes that Edith is once again the least fortunate sister even in this regard. Consider that Sybil's marriage to Tom, a handsome and fiery rebel is clearly passionate, considering how quickly she got pregnant, Mary has married the dashing and romantic Matthew and the first two episodes of season 3 made it clear that their relationship certainly does not lack passion. This impending marriage, on the other hand, does not seem likely to yield much in that department.
Becomes a "Funny Aneurysm" Moment after Edith is jilted at the altar
As everyone discusses the deadly serious topic of Branson's involvement in the burning of an English family's castle in Ireland, Violet can't help repeatedly bringing up how ugly the place was.
This exchange (about Thomas after he was outed)
Mrs Hughes: Do you think he's the first of. . .that type I've met?
Carson: I should hope so!
The Dowager Countess' disdain for the new-fangled dinner jackets.
Violet: Certainly not! Oh, do you think I might have a drink? (turns and sees it's Robert) Oh, I'm so sorry. I thought you were a waiter.
Robert Crawley, Earl of Nonchalance:
Robert: If I'd screamed blue murder every time someone tried to kiss me at Eton, I'd have gone hoarse in a month.
The look on Bates's face afterwards isn't too bad either.
Robert cementing himself as not the brightest man by suggesting he invest the family's finances with an American chap named Ponzi.
Even better, you can see Matthew facepalming at the suggestion.
Molseley dancing like a maniac after being hit by the liquor meant for O'Brien.
Robert and Violet awkwardly trying to pose for a photo with the Catholic priest who baptized Sybbie.
Cora: Are you afraid you will be converted while your back is turned?
How utterly obsessed with the cricket match Robert becomes. Thomas is allowed to keep his job mostly because he's good at the game and he is only willing to get on board with Matthew and Tom's plan to save Downton if Tom plays for the house team. He is making major decisions with long lasting repercussions purely based on fielding a team.
The following sentence comes out of Violet Crawley's mouth: "You've been reading those communist newspapers again".
Edith knows what the Scarlet Letter is. This isn't shocking - she's young and yearning for love. But the fact that Isobel (as she doesn't query the meaning like Violet does) and Mrs Hughes have read it is rather funny.
The Running Gag of Violet constantly, basically as a reflex, calling Tom "Branson" instead of by his first name. Branson is how one would properly address a chauffeur but as Tom is family now it is proper to call him by his first name. When Violet suggest Tom be made the estates agent she points out the added benefit being she can now go back to calling him Branson.

Series 1
"What is a week-end?"
And, of course, nearly falling over in the swivel-chair:
Lady Grantham: Good heavens, what am I sitting on!?
Matthew Crawley: Er..swivel..chair.
Lady Grantham: Another modern brainwave?
Matthew Crawley: Hardly. They were invented by Thomas Jefferson.
Lady Grantham: Why does every day involve a fight with an American?
"In situations such as this one can normally find an Italian who isn't too picky."
Let's not forget this gem, after Pamuk's death:
Lady Grantham: Of course it would happen to a foreigner. It's typical. No Englishman would dream of dying in someone else's house - especially somebody they didn't even know.
And when discussing the scandal with Cora
Lady Grantham: We can't have him assassinated. . .I suppose.
Daisy (the lowest ranking servant) actually believing she'll meet the Duke of Crowborough back in the first episode.
The Crawley's totally over the top reactions to Sybil wearing pantaloons. Downton's known for it's long reaction shots, but this scene really lingers on everyone: Cora seems on the verge of fainting, Violet is decidedly not impressed, Matthew is clearly enjoying the fun while poor Robert is just confused. Then of course you've got Branson grinning at the window, hinting he was in on Sybil's plan.
Mary's reaction is one of shock - but less "she's wearing pantaloons" shock and more a "you crazy idiot, you actually did it!" shock.
When Mary tells Matthew the story of Perseus, Sybil can be seen intently listening.
The darkly comic Mood Whiplash caused by Pamuk's death. From a passionate love scene to "He's dead. I think he's dead".
The reaction of Cora being woken up in the middle of the night to be told that she has to help Mary and Anna move a body halfway across the house. It's Black Comedy but the whole scene is awkwardly hilarious.
About Cora's pregnancy:
Robert: How could this happen?
Cora: The doctor will tell you the details by a glass of whiskey.
In the very next scene he appears in, he and the doctor are drinking whiskey!
The Dowager Countess' mini-rivalry with Mrs. Crawley is almost too much fun to watch. Their constant one-upping of each other often provides much-needed comic relief in an otherwise very dramatic series.
Violet: You are quite wonderful the way you see room for improvement wherever you look. I never knew such reforming zeal.
Isobel: I take that as a compliment.
Violet: I must have said it wrong.
After Mrs. Crawley accuses the Dowager of telling Mary to refuse Matthew until Cora's baby is born.
Dowager Countess: Your quarrel is with my daughter Rosamund. I told her to accept him, so put that in your pipe and smoke it.
Made even better by the quick shot of Carson's rather pleased reaction.
Mr. Carson's reveal of his shameful past as a stage performer, which to him seems to be on the same level as murdering someone.
And when he expects to be fired over it, Robert instead says he's rather impressed.
That said, Carson's stuffy nature can become so hilarious that it's an inside joke among some of Downton's residents. Among one of his more memorable moments is his practicing using the new telephone and getting in an argument with the operator.
Well, I dare say a lot of the things you do sound stupid to other people! *hangs up*
When Cora suggests Mary visit New York to cool off from the Pemuk scandal, Violet says she's not that desperate.
Mrs. Patmore unsuccessfully trying to inform Daisy that Thomas isn't interested in her. Daisy doesn't seem to understand what "He's not a ladies' man" and "he's a troubled soul" are supposed to mean.
"Daisy, may I ask why you are holding Lady Sybil's biscuit jar?"
When Cora says "Things are different in America", Violet says its because Americans live in wigwams.
Robert managing to say without a hint of irony how great it would be to have people serve your every need, while Carson is serving him dinner.
Miss O'Brien and Thomas get worried that Bates has planted the snuff box they stole in one of their rooms. Cut to O'Brien's room turned apart trying to find it. And Mrs Hughes at the door.
"Well you've been busy."
Violet is quite puzzled as to why Mary's so troubled by the Turkish man's death.
"One can't go to pieces at the death of every foreigner. We'd all be in a state of collapse whenever we opened a newspaper."
Mrs Patmore's cataracts cause her to accidentally put salt in the dessert. Despite the family being mortified at dinner, Mary immediately starts snorting into her napkin with laughter.
Cora tells Violet that Mary doesn't want to marry Matthew without telling him about Pamuk's death as it would be dishonorable.
Violet: She reads too many novels. One way or another, everyone goes down the aisle with half the story hidden.
Mrs Patmore's reprimands of Daisy are always priceless.
"Daisy! I sent you for a drink of water, not a trip up the Nile!"
Right before Mrs Patmore goes for her operation, she suggests that Daisy sabotage Mrs Bird's cooking so as not to upstage her own. Daisy obliges...by putting soap in the soup. And Mrs Bird switched the upstairs food with the servants', catching Daisy red-handed.
Mrs Bird also finds it Actually Pretty Funny, compliments Daisy on her loyalty and then sends her to get tomorrow's dinner.
Mrs Bird: You've not had a chance to spoil that yet, I suppose?
Daisy: I was gonna mix in some syrup of figs in but I've not done it yet.
At the last revelation you can see Gwen and Bates cracking up.
Thomas finds a silver lining in what almost happened.
"At least we'd have all been regular."
Series 2
Right after Matthew and Sir Richard have a fight, following Mary ending the engagement, and deciding to leave Downton Abbey first thing in the morning:
Sir Richard: (to Lady Grantham) I doubt we'll meet again.
Lady Grantham: Do you promise?
In the same exchange discussing the vase broken in the fight. Matthew apologizes for breaking it.
Matthew: Sorry about the vase.
Lady Grantham: Oh, don't be, don't be - it was a wedding present from a frightful aunt. I have hated it for half a century.
About Sir Richard:
Lady Grantham: It's not that I dislike him, I just don't like him.
O'Brien hazing Ethel.
Mrs Patmore and Daisy are at Sybil's request teaching her how to cook so she might be better prepared for her upcoming nursing/caretaker training. When Mrs. Patmore sees her first attempt she responds as she normally would as if she was talking to another servant.
Mrs. Patmore What in wonderland do you call that!? (Remembers who she is talking to)..I mean I do not fully understand what you are trying to do M'lady.
When Mrs. Hughes reveals that a person standing in the airing cupboard can listen to a conversation in the kitchen through a vent, so she knows why Bates suddenly left with his wife, Vera.
Carson: If I were a gentleman, I would not wish to know.
Mrs. Hughes: But you're not.
Carson: Fortunately. [closes door]
Carson, Anna and Mrs. Hughes stopping Tom's plot to throw slop on Gen. Strutt. They thought he was going to kill him!
Presumably, this was unintentional but it gets a few childish sniggers.
Robert: Still in one piece, thank God.
Matthew: Touch wood.
Robert: I never stopped touching it.
Tom arriving so he and Sybil can announce their engagement, unknown to everyone.
Tom: I'm here.
Lord Grantham: So, I can see.
Cora's increasingly horrified expression as the lovers explain their future plans.
Sybil gasping at Mary when she walks out of the sitting room when they were talking about Pamuk's death.
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Series 3
When Coras' mother is visiting, Lady Grantham has this gem.
Lady Grantham: I'm so looking forward to seeing your mother again. When I'm with her, I'm reminded of the virtues of the English.
Matthew: But isn't she American?
Lady Grantham: Exactly.
Martha arriving in Series 3 Episode 1 and unleashing the bells of hell onto Downton with her American ways. Tis very funny.
While it happens in the middle of a very serious scene, this troper found it hilarious that Robert was commended for being smart enough to use modern methods to handle the finances at Downton, thus saving it from future financial ruin, after he spent several episodes fighting tooth and nail whenever Matthew tried to implement said methods.
New footman Jimmy is irritated when Carson introduces him to the Crawleys as James:
Jimmy: I was Jimmy to Lady Anstruther.
Carson: I don't care if you were Father Christmas to Lady Anstruther!
The clash between The Dowager Countess and Cora's mother, Martha Levinson. Played to absolute perfection by Dame Maggie Smith and Shirley MacLane. A proper, aristocratic British Matriarch + An eccentric rich American matriarch = fun for everyone!
This exchange between Lady Grantham and Sybil, right before Edith's wedding:
Lady Grantham: I really think you should go to bed. No bride wants to look tired on her wedding, that means she’s anxious or up to no good.
Edith: I won't sleep a wink.
Sybil: Tonight or tomorrow?
Lady Grantham: Sybil, vulgarity is no substitute for wit.
Sybil: You started it.
It's EVERYTHING that Sybil does in this scene that sells it. She raises an eyebrow, smiles to herself when she hears "I won't sleep a wink", looks straight at camera, says her line then drinks her tea while looking away. ITS HILARIOUS.
Although this is a little sad in hindsight, when one realizes that Edith is once again the least fortunate sister even in this regard. Consider that Sybil's marriage to Tom, a handsome and fiery rebel is clearly passionate, considering how quickly she got pregnant, Mary has married the dashing and romantic Matthew and the first two episodes of season 3 made it clear that their relationship certainly does not lack passion. This impending marriage, on the other hand, does not seem likely to yield much in that department.
Becomes a "Funny Aneurysm" Moment after Edith is jilted at the altar
As everyone discusses the deadly serious topic of Branson's involvement in the burning of an English family's castle in Ireland, Violet can't help repeatedly bringing up how ugly the place was.
This exchange (about Thomas after he was outed)
Mrs Hughes: Do you think he's the first of. . .that type I've met?
Carson: I should hope so!
The Dowager Countess' disdain for the new-fangled dinner jackets.
Violet: Certainly not! Oh, do you think I might have a drink? (turns and sees it's Robert) Oh, I'm so sorry. I thought you were a waiter.
Robert Crawley, Earl of Nonchalance:
Robert: If I'd screamed blue murder every time someone tried to kiss me at Eton, I'd have gone hoarse in a month.
The look on Bates's face afterwards isn't too bad either.
Robert cementing himself as not the brightest man by suggesting he invest the family's finances with an American chap named Ponzi.
Even better, you can see Matthew facepalming at the suggestion.
Molseley dancing like a maniac after being hit by the liquor meant for O'Brien.
Robert and Violet awkwardly trying to pose for a photo with the Catholic priest who baptized Sybbie.
Cora: Are you afraid you will be converted while your back is turned?
How utterly obsessed with the cricket match Robert becomes. Thomas is allowed to keep his job mostly because he's good at the game and he is only willing to get on board with Matthew and Tom's plan to save Downton if Tom plays for the house team. He is making major decisions with long lasting repercussions purely based on fielding a team.
The following sentence comes out of Violet Crawley's mouth: "You've been reading those communist newspapers again".
Edith knows what the Scarlet Letter is. This isn't shocking - she's young and yearning for love. But the fact that Isobel (as she doesn't query the meaning like Violet does) and Mrs Hughes have read it is rather funny.
The Running Gag of Violet constantly, basically as a reflex, calling Tom "Branson" instead of by his first name. Branson is how one would properly address a chauffeur but as Tom is family now it is proper to call him by his first name. When Violet suggest Tom be made the estates agent she points out the added benefit being she can now go back to calling him Branson.

Series 1
"What is a week-end?"
And, of course, nearly falling over in the swivel-chair:
Lady Grantham: Good heavens, what am I sitting on!?
Matthew Crawley: Er..swivel..chair.
Lady Grantham: Another modern brainwave?
Matthew Crawley: Hardly. They were invented by Thomas Jefferson.
Lady Grantham: Why does every day involve a fight with an American?
"In situations such as this one can normally find an Italian who isn't too picky."
Let's not forget this gem, after Pamuk's death:
Lady Grantham: Of course it would happen to a foreigner. It's typical. No Englishman would dream of dying in someone else's house - especially somebody they didn't even know.
And when discussing the scandal with Cora
Lady Grantham: We can't have him assassinated. . .I suppose.
Daisy (the lowest ranking servant) actually believing she'll meet the Duke of Crowborough back in the first episode.
The Crawley's totally over the top reactions to Sybil wearing pantaloons. Downton's known for it's long reaction shots, but this scene really lingers on everyone: Cora seems on the verge of fainting, Violet is decidedly not impressed, Matthew is clearly enjoying the fun while poor Robert is just confused. Then of course you've got Branson grinning at the window, hinting he was in on Sybil's plan.
Mary's reaction is one of shock - but less "she's wearing pantaloons" shock and more a "you crazy idiot, you actually did it!" shock.
When Mary tells Matthew the story of Perseus, Sybil can be seen intently listening.
The darkly comic Mood Whiplash caused by Pamuk's death. From a passionate love scene to "He's dead. I think he's dead".
The reaction of Cora being woken up in the middle of the night to be told that she has to help Mary and Anna move a body halfway across the house. It's Black Comedy but the whole scene is awkwardly hilarious.
About Cora's pregnancy:
Robert: How could this happen?
Cora: The doctor will tell you the details by a glass of whiskey.
In the very next scene he appears in, he and the doctor are drinking whiskey!
The Dowager Countess' mini-rivalry with Mrs. Crawley is almost too much fun to watch. Their constant one-upping of each other often provides much-needed comic relief in an otherwise very dramatic series.
Violet: You are quite wonderful the way you see room for improvement wherever you look. I never knew such reforming zeal.
Isobel: I take that as a compliment.
Violet: I must have said it wrong.
After Mrs. Crawley accuses the Dowager of telling Mary to refuse Matthew until Cora's baby is born.
Dowager Countess: Your quarrel is with my daughter Rosamund. I told her to accept him, so put that in your pipe and smoke it.
Made even better by the quick shot of Carson's rather pleased reaction.
Mr. Carson's reveal of his shameful past as a stage performer, which to him seems to be on the same level as murdering someone.
And when he expects to be fired over it, Robert instead says he's rather impressed.
That said, Carson's stuffy nature can become so hilarious that it's an inside joke among some of Downton's residents. Among one of his more memorable moments is his practicing using the new telephone and getting in an argument with the operator.
Well, I dare say a lot of the things you do sound stupid to other people! *hangs up*
When Cora suggests Mary visit New York to cool off from the Pemuk scandal, Violet says she's not that desperate.
Mrs. Patmore unsuccessfully trying to inform Daisy that Thomas isn't interested in her. Daisy doesn't seem to understand what "He's not a ladies' man" and "he's a troubled soul" are supposed to mean.
"Daisy, may I ask why you are holding Lady Sybil's biscuit jar?"
When Cora says "Things are different in America", Violet says its because Americans live in wigwams.
Robert managing to say without a hint of irony how great it would be to have people serve your every need, while Carson is serving him dinner.
Miss O'Brien and Thomas get worried that Bates has planted the snuff box they stole in one of their rooms. Cut to O'Brien's room turned apart trying to find it. And Mrs Hughes at the door.
"Well you've been busy."
Violet is quite puzzled as to why Mary's so troubled by the Turkish man's death.
"One can't go to pieces at the death of every foreigner. We'd all be in a state of collapse whenever we opened a newspaper."
Mrs Patmore's cataracts cause her to accidentally put salt in the dessert. Despite the family being mortified at dinner, Mary immediately starts snorting into her napkin with laughter.
Cora tells Violet that Mary doesn't want to marry Matthew without telling him about Pamuk's death as it would be dishonorable.
Violet: She reads too many novels. One way or another, everyone goes down the aisle with half the story hidden.
Mrs Patmore's reprimands of Daisy are always priceless.
"Daisy! I sent you for a drink of water, not a trip up the Nile!"
Right before Mrs Patmore goes for her operation, she suggests that Daisy sabotage Mrs Bird's cooking so as not to upstage her own. Daisy obliges...by putting soap in the soup. And Mrs Bird switched the upstairs food with the servants', catching Daisy red-handed.
Mrs Bird also finds it Actually Pretty Funny, compliments Daisy on her loyalty and then sends her to get tomorrow's dinner.
Mrs Bird: You've not had a chance to spoil that yet, I suppose?
Daisy: I was gonna mix in some syrup of figs in but I've not done it yet.
At the last revelation you can see Gwen and Bates cracking up.
Thomas finds a silver lining in what almost happened.
"At least we'd have all been regular."
Series 2
Right after Matthew and Sir Richard have a fight, following Mary ending the engagement, and deciding to leave Downton Abbey first thing in the morning:
Sir Richard: (to Lady Grantham) I doubt we'll meet again.
Lady Grantham: Do you promise?
In the same exchange discussing the vase broken in the fight. Matthew apologizes for breaking it.
Matthew: Sorry about the vase.
Lady Grantham: Oh, don't be, don't be - it was a wedding present from a frightful aunt. I have hated it for half a century.
About Sir Richard:
Lady Grantham: It's not that I dislike him, I just don't like him.
O'Brien hazing Ethel.
Mrs Patmore and Daisy are at Sybil's request teaching her how to cook so she might be better prepared for her upcoming nursing/caretaker training. When Mrs. Patmore sees her first attempt she responds as she normally would as if she was talking to another servant.
Mrs. Patmore What in wonderland do you call that!? (Remembers who she is talking to)..I mean I do not fully understand what you are trying to do M'lady.
When Mrs. Hughes reveals that a person standing in the airing cupboard can listen to a conversation in the kitchen through a vent, so she knows why Bates suddenly left with his wife, Vera.
Carson: If I were a gentleman, I would not wish to know.
Mrs. Hughes: But you're not.
Carson: Fortunately. [closes door]
Carson, Anna and Mrs. Hughes stopping Tom's plot to throw slop on Gen. Strutt. They thought he was going to kill him!
Presumably, this was unintentional but it gets a few childish sniggers.
Robert: Still in one piece, thank God.
Matthew: Touch wood.
Robert: I never stopped touching it.
Tom arriving so he and Sybil can announce their engagement, unknown to everyone.
Tom: I'm here.
Lord Grantham: So, I can see.
Cora's increasingly horrified expression as the lovers explain their future plans.
Sybil gasping at Mary when she walks out of the sitting room when they were talking about Pamuk's death.
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Series 3
When Coras' mother is visiting, Lady Grantham has this gem.
Lady Grantham: I'm so looking forward to seeing your mother again. When I'm with her, I'm reminded of the virtues of the English.
Matthew: But isn't she American?
Lady Grantham: Exactly.
Martha arriving in Series 3 Episode 1 and unleashing the bells of hell onto Downton with her American ways. Tis very funny.
While it happens in the middle of a very serious scene, this troper found it hilarious that Robert was commended for being smart enough to use modern methods to handle the finances at Downton, thus saving it from future financial ruin, after he spent several episodes fighting tooth and nail whenever Matthew tried to implement said methods.
New footman Jimmy is irritated when Carson introduces him to the Crawleys as James:
Jimmy: I was Jimmy to Lady Anstruther.
Carson: I don't care if you were Father Christmas to Lady Anstruther!
The clash between The Dowager Countess and Cora's mother, Martha Levinson. Played to absolute perfection by Dame Maggie Smith and Shirley MacLane. A proper, aristocratic British Matriarch + An eccentric rich American matriarch = fun for everyone!
This exchange between Lady Grantham and Sybil, right before Edith's wedding:
Lady Grantham: I really think you should go to bed. No bride wants to look tired on her wedding, that means she’s anxious or up to no good.
Edith: I won't sleep a wink.
Sybil: Tonight or tomorrow?
Lady Grantham: Sybil, vulgarity is no substitute for wit.
Sybil: You started it.
It's EVERYTHING that Sybil does in this scene that sells it. She raises an eyebrow, smiles to herself when she hears "I won't sleep a wink", looks straight at camera, says her line then drinks her tea while looking away. ITS HILARIOUS.
Although this is a little sad in hindsight, when one realizes that Edith is once again the least fortunate sister even in this regard. Consider that Sybil's marriage to Tom, a handsome and fiery rebel is clearly passionate, considering how quickly she got pregnant, Mary has married the dashing and romantic Matthew and the first two episodes of season 3 made it clear that their relationship certainly does not lack passion. This impending marriage, on the other hand, does not seem likely to yield much in that department.
Becomes a "Funny Aneurysm" Moment after Edith is jilted at the altar
As everyone discusses the deadly serious topic of Branson's involvement in the burning of an English family's castle in Ireland, Violet can't help repeatedly bringing up how ugly the place was.
This exchange (about Thomas after he was outed)
Mrs Hughes: Do you think he's the first of. . .that type I've met?
Carson: I should hope so!
The Dowager Countess' disdain for the new-fangled dinner jackets.
Violet: Certainly not! Oh, do you think I might have a drink? (turns and sees it's Robert) Oh, I'm so sorry. I thought you were a waiter.
Robert Crawley, Earl of Nonchalance:
Robert: If I'd screamed blue murder every time someone tried to kiss me at Eton, I'd have gone hoarse in a month.
The look on Bates's face afterwards isn't too bad either.
Robert cementing himself as not the brightest man by suggesting he invest the family's finances with an American chap named Ponzi.
Even better, you can see Matthew facepalming at the suggestion.
Molseley dancing like a maniac after being hit by the liquor meant for O'Brien.
Robert and Violet awkwardly trying to pose for a photo with the Catholic priest who baptized Sybbie.
Cora: Are you afraid you will be converted while your back is turned?
How utterly obsessed with the cricket match Robert becomes. Thomas is allowed to keep his job mostly because he's good at the game and he is only willing to get on board with Matthew and Tom's plan to save Downton if Tom plays for the house team. He is making major decisions with long lasting repercussions purely based on fielding a team.
The following sentence comes out of Violet Crawley's mouth: "You've been reading those communist newspapers again".
Edith knows what the Scarlet Letter is. This isn't shocking - she's young and yearning for love. But the fact that Isobel (as she doesn't query the meaning like Violet does) and Mrs Hughes have read it is rather funny.
The Running Gag of Violet constantly, basically as a reflex, calling Tom "Branson" instead of by his first name. Branson is how one would properly address a chauffeur but as Tom is family now it is proper to call him by his first name. When Violet suggest Tom be made the estates agent she points out the added benefit being she can now go back to calling him Branson.

Series 1
"What is a week-end?"
And, of course, nearly falling over in the swivel-chair:
Lady Grantham: Good heavens, what am I sitting on!?
Matthew Crawley: Er..swivel..chair.
Lady Grantham: Another modern brainwave?
Matthew Crawley: Hardly. They were invented by Thomas Jefferson.
Lady Grantham: Why does every day involve a fight with an American?
"In situations such as this one can normally find an Italian who isn't too picky."
Let's not forget this gem, after Pamuk's death:
Lady Grantham: Of course it would happen to a foreigner. It's typical. No Englishman would dream of dying in someone else's house - especially somebody they didn't even know.
And when discussing the scandal with Cora
Lady Grantham: We can't have him assassinated. . .I suppose.
Daisy (the lowest ranking servant) actually believing she'll meet the Duke of Crowborough back in the first episode.
The Crawley's totally over the top reactions to Sybil wearing pantaloons. Downton's known for it's long reaction shots, but this scene really lingers on everyone: Cora seems on the verge of fainting, Violet is decidedly not impressed, Matthew is clearly enjoying the fun while poor Robert is just confused. Then of course you've got Branson grinning at the window, hinting he was in on Sybil's plan.
Mary's reaction is one of shock - but less "she's wearing pantaloons" shock and more a "you crazy idiot, you actually did it!" shock.
When Mary tells Matthew the story of Perseus, Sybil can be seen intently listening.
The darkly comic Mood Whiplash caused by Pamuk's death. From a passionate love scene to "He's dead. I think he's dead".
The reaction of Cora being woken up in the middle of the night to be told that she has to help Mary and Anna move a body halfway across the house. It's Black Comedy but the whole scene is awkwardly hilarious.
About Cora's pregnancy:
Robert: How could this happen?
Cora: The doctor will tell you the details by a glass of whiskey.
In the very next scene he appears in, he and the doctor are drinking whiskey!
The Dowager Countess' mini-rivalry with Mrs. Crawley is almost too much fun to watch. Their constant one-upping of each other often provides much-needed comic relief in an otherwise very dramatic series.
Violet: You are quite wonderful the way you see room for improvement wherever you look. I never knew such reforming zeal.
Isobel: I take that as a compliment.
Violet: I must have said it wrong.
After Mrs. Crawley accuses the Dowager of telling Mary to refuse Matthew until Cora's baby is born.
Dowager Countess: Your quarrel is with my daughter Rosamund. I told her to accept him, so put that in your pipe and smoke it.
Made even better by the quick shot of Carson's rather pleased reaction.
Mr. Carson's reveal of his shameful past as a stage performer, which to him seems to be on the same level as murdering someone.
And when he expects to be fired over it, Robert instead says he's rather impressed.
That said, Carson's stuffy nature can become so hilarious that it's an inside joke among some of Downton's residents. Among one of his more memorable moments is his practicing using the new telephone and getting in an argument with the operator.
Well, I dare say a lot of the things you do sound stupid to other people! *hangs up*
When Cora suggests Mary visit New York to cool off from the Pemuk scandal, Violet says she's not that desperate.
Mrs. Patmore unsuccessfully trying to inform Daisy that Thomas isn't interested in her. Daisy doesn't seem to understand what "He's not a ladies' man" and "he's a troubled soul" are supposed to mean.
"Daisy, may I ask why you are holding Lady Sybil's biscuit jar?"
When Cora says "Things are different in America", Violet says its because Americans live in wigwams.
Robert managing to say without a hint of irony how great it would be to have people serve your every need, while Carson is serving him dinner.
Miss O'Brien and Thomas get worried that Bates has planted the snuff box they stole in one of their rooms. Cut to O'Brien's room turned apart trying to find it. And Mrs Hughes at the door.
"Well you've been busy."
Violet is quite puzzled as to why Mary's so troubled by the Turkish man's death.
"One can't go to pieces at the death of every foreigner. We'd all be in a state of collapse whenever we opened a newspaper."
Mrs Patmore's cataracts cause her to accidentally put salt in the dessert. Despite the family being mortified at dinner, Mary immediately starts snorting into her napkin with laughter.
Cora tells Violet that Mary doesn't want to marry Matthew without telling him about Pamuk's death as it would be dishonorable.
Violet: She reads too many novels. One way or another, everyone goes down the aisle with half the story hidden.
Mrs Patmore's reprimands of Daisy are always priceless.
"Daisy! I sent you for a drink of water, not a trip up the Nile!"
Right before Mrs Patmore goes for her operation, she suggests that Daisy sabotage Mrs Bird's cooking so as not to upstage her own. Daisy obliges...by putting soap in the soup. And Mrs Bird switched the upstairs food with the servants', catching Daisy red-handed.
Mrs Bird also finds it Actually Pretty Funny, compliments Daisy on her loyalty and then sends her to get tomorrow's dinner.
Mrs Bird: You've not had a chance to spoil that yet, I suppose?
Daisy: I was gonna mix in some syrup of figs in but I've not done it yet.
At the last revelation you can see Gwen and Bates cracking up.
Thomas finds a silver lining in what almost happened.
"At least we'd have all been regular."
Series 2
Right after Matthew and Sir Richard have a fight, following Mary ending the engagement, and deciding to leave Downton Abbey first thing in the morning:
Sir Richard: (to Lady Grantham) I doubt we'll meet again.
Lady Grantham: Do you promise?
In the same exchange discussing the vase broken in the fight. Matthew apologizes for breaking it.
Matthew: Sorry about the vase.
Lady Grantham: Oh, don't be, don't be - it was a wedding present from a frightful aunt. I have hated it for half a century.
About Sir Richard:
Lady Grantham: It's not that I dislike him, I just don't like him.
O'Brien hazing Ethel.
Mrs Patmore and Daisy are at Sybil's request teaching her how to cook so she might be better prepared for her upcoming nursing/caretaker training. When Mrs. Patmore sees her first attempt she responds as she normally would as if she was talking to another servant.
Mrs. Patmore What in wonderland do you call that!? (Remembers who she is talking to)..I mean I do not fully understand what you are trying to do M'lady.
When Mrs. Hughes reveals that a person standing in the airing cupboard can listen to a conversation in the kitchen through a vent, so she knows why Bates suddenly left with his wife, Vera.
Carson: If I were a gentleman, I would not wish to know.
Mrs. Hughes: But you're not.
Carson: Fortunately. [closes door]
Carson, Anna and Mrs. Hughes stopping Tom's plot to throw slop on Gen. Strutt. They thought he was going to kill him!
Presumably, this was unintentional but it gets a few childish sniggers.
Robert: Still in one piece, thank God.
Matthew: Touch wood.
Robert: I never stopped touching it.
Tom arriving so he and Sybil can announce their engagement, unknown to everyone.
Tom: I'm here.
Lord Grantham: So, I can see.
Cora's increasingly horrified expression as the lovers explain their future plans.
Sybil gasping at Mary when she walks out of the sitting room when they were talking about Pamuk's death.
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Series 3
When Coras' mother is visiting, Lady Grantham has this gem.
Lady Grantham: I'm so looking forward to seeing your mother again. When I'm with her, I'm reminded of the virtues of the English.
Matthew: But isn't she American?
Lady Grantham: Exactly.
Martha arriving in Series 3 Episode 1 and unleashing the bells of hell onto Downton with her American ways. Tis very funny.
While it happens in the middle of a very serious scene, this troper found it hilarious that Robert was commended for being smart enough to use modern methods to handle the finances at Downton, thus saving it from future financial ruin, after he spent several episodes fighting tooth and nail whenever Matthew tried to implement said methods.
New footman Jimmy is irritated when Carson introduces him to the Crawleys as James:
Jimmy: I was Jimmy to Lady Anstruther.
Carson: I don't care if you were Father Christmas to Lady Anstruther!
The clash between The Dowager Countess and Cora's mother, Martha Levinson. Played to absolute perfection by Dame Maggie Smith and Shirley MacLane. A proper, aristocratic British Matriarch + An eccentric rich American matriarch = fun for everyone!
This exchange between Lady Grantham and Sybil, right before Edith's wedding:
Lady Grantham: I really think you should go to bed. No bride wants to look tired on her wedding, that means she’s anxious or up to no good.
Edith: I won't sleep a wink.
Sybil: Tonight or tomorrow?
Lady Grantham: Sybil, vulgarity is no substitute for wit.
Sybil: You started it.
It's EVERYTHING that Sybil does in this scene that sells it. She raises an eyebrow, smiles to herself when she hears "I won't sleep a wink", looks straight at camera, says her line then drinks her tea while looking away. ITS HILARIOUS.
Although this is a little sad in hindsight, when one realizes that Edith is once again the least fortunate sister even in this regard. Consider that Sybil's marriage to Tom, a handsome and fiery rebel is clearly passionate, considering how quickly she got pregnant, Mary has married the dashing and romantic Matthew and the first two episodes of season 3 made it clear that their relationship certainly does not lack passion. This impending marriage, on the other hand, does not seem likely to yield much in that department.
Becomes a "Funny Aneurysm" Moment after Edith is jilted at the altar
As everyone discusses the deadly serious topic of Branson's involvement in the burning of an English family's castle in Ireland, Violet can't help repeatedly bringing up how ugly the place was.
This exchange (about Thomas after he was outed)
Mrs Hughes: Do you think he's the first of. . .that type I've met?
Carson: I should hope so!
The Dowager Countess' disdain for the new-fangled dinner jackets.
Violet: Certainly not! Oh, do you think I might have a drink? (turns and sees it's Robert) Oh, I'm so sorry. I thought you were a waiter.
Robert Crawley, Earl of Nonchalance:
Robert: If I'd screamed blue murder every time someone tried to kiss me at Eton, I'd have gone hoarse in a month.
The look on Bates's face afterwards isn't too bad either.
Robert cementing himself as not the brightest man by suggesting he invest the family's finances with an American chap named Ponzi.
Even better, you can see Matthew facepalming at the suggestion.
Molseley dancing like a maniac after being hit by the liquor meant for O'Brien.
Robert and Violet awkwardly trying to pose for a photo with the Catholic priest who baptized Sybbie.
Cora: Are you afraid you will be converted while your back is turned?
How utterly obsessed with the cricket match Robert becomes. Thomas is allowed to keep his job mostly because he's good at the game and he is only willing to get on board with Matthew and Tom's plan to save Downton if Tom plays for the house team. He is making major decisions with long lasting repercussions purely based on fielding a team.
The following sentence comes out of Violet Crawley's mouth: "You've been reading those communist newspapers again".
Edith knows what the Scarlet Letter is. This isn't shocking - she's young and yearning for love. But the fact that Isobel (as she doesn't query the meaning like Violet does) and Mrs Hughes have read it is rather funny.
The Running Gag of Violet constantly, basically as a reflex, calling Tom "Branson" instead of by his first name. Branson is how one would properly address a chauffeur but as Tom is family now it is proper to call him by his first name. When Violet suggest Tom be made the estates agent she points out the added benefit being she can now go back to calling him Branson.