While women of the 21st century have the luxury to marry for love, 18th-century ladies did not have that option. As shown in The Duchess, marriages of the upper class were arranged according to wealth and status.

When the young Lady Georgiana Spencer (Keira Knightley) is betrothed by her mother (Charlotte Rampling) to the Duke of Devonshire (Ralph Fiennes), she feels somewhat content. Although she has her eyes on Charles Grey (Dominic Cooper), Georgiana understands about prominence and can’t help being flattered because the Duke chose her as his wife.

Georgiana soon immerses herself in the duties of a 1774 Duchess. And although the Duke consummated their marriage the first night, she hoped their union would be one based on love rather than protocol. When their mating is so rough and emotionless, the act practically brings Georgiana to tears. But the Duke wants a son and is determined to get one.

It’s not long before Georgiana finds the affection and attention she seeks from her husband in the world around her instead. She’s a socialite who adores festive gatherings, playing poker and the flirtatious nature of men -- whether old or young. Constantly around Grey, she holds at bay her feelings, remaining faithful to her husband.

When she befriends Lady Elizabeth Foster (Hayley Atwell), Georgiana at last has a confidante. Their good times together end quickly when Lady Elizabeth becomes the Duke’s mistress. This betrayal and the acrimony Georgiana feels from the Duke will ultimately define who she really is.

Michael O’Connor’s costumes and set decoration by Rebecca Alleway are definitely key players in this lovely film. O'Connor, who has costumed everything from Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day to The Last King of Scotland, tells a story of the times and the character’s emotions through his lavish costumes. Rachel Portman’s original music also deserves recognition. It sets the tone for a story that swings on a chandelier one moment and drops with the thud of a guillotine the next.

Ralph Fiennes has the dubious task of making his character sympatric but stern at the same time. It’s hard to tell if the Duke treats Georgiana so badly because she can’t bear him a son or he simply dislikes her. Regardless, Fiennes does such a good job that the Duke comes across as a difficult man to like.

With roles in period films such as Pride & Prejudice and Atonement behind her (and King Lear upcoming), it’s fair to say Knightley has parts like these down pat. Still, I think The Duchess is one of her best performances yet -- maybe even of Oscar caliber. She artfully takes Georgiana through every emotion imaginable while reexamining her life, time and again.

The Duchess manages to incorporate the elements of love, betrayal and politics exceptionally well, and anyone who likes period dramas will find this movie thoroughly satisfying.

(Released by Paramount Vantage and rated “PG-13”: for sexual content, brief nudity and thematic material.)

Review also posted at www.reviewexpress.com.