Sexism warning. The show does take place in the 1960s, and typical-of-the-era behavior is all over. I mentioned that men drink and smoke, and women aren’t sticks.

Women are also treated as objects. Seasons 1-2 take place in 1960-61, so is before the rise of feminism and The Feminine Mystique was published. Women are secretaries, and get called “honey”, “darling”, and similar (in the video I linked to, Don refers to the secretary as “sweetheart”.) It’s not unusual to see sexist behavior and comments in the office.

It’s also before the “I Have A Dream” speech (also 1963.) However, I don’t recall there was any racism in the show – but the only black roles have been elevator operators, janitors, delivery men, the guy selling roles in the back of the office.

I suspect that season 3 will be set in 1963, and will have a lot of issues to toss in the mix.

* Don Draper, an ad man on Madison Avenue (hence the title, “Mad Men”) head of Creative at Sterling-Cooper.

* Peggy Olson, who starts out as Don’s secretary at the firm (the pilot episode is her first day at work.)

Great acting by an ensemble cast, set in the 1960’s (season 1 is 1960.) As part of the atmosphere, men drink and smoke, and women aren’t little sticks. And I find the intertwined stories very engaging, different from what you usually find on TV.

And seeing the old product ads come to life is, of course, really cool. Since the show revolves around advertising, it makes sense for characters’ stories to be reflected in certain products and ads. In particular, the bit at the end of season 1 when Don pitches Kodak the name “Carousel” – instead of Kodak’s proposed idea, “The Wheel” – is very poignant if you’ve followed the characters and their stories.

Seasons 1 and 2 are out on DVD, Season 3 starts later this month.