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Maggie Smith's Quick-Witted Comebacks Will Make You Giggle-Snort

An elderly woman in a Victorian-style dress sits in an ornate chair, adorned with a pearl necklace and a brooch.

Over the years, Maggie Smith has been a titan in the entertainment industry. In every role she has taken on, she has knocked it out of the park, and her character in Downton Abbey is no exception.

An elderly woman with gray hair, wearing a black dress and pearl necklace, sits in a room with green walls and a fireplace.

Most people know who Maggie Smith is. Across her career, she has played some of the most well-loved characters in cinema, like Minerva McGonagall in Harry Potter and Athena in Troy.

But whether she plays a Greek goddess or a stern headmistress and professor, Maggie Smith brings her A game. Her role as The Dowager Countess is just as iconic as the rest.

An elderly woman in a red Victorian-style dress sits at a table, looking surprised or concerned.

For the few viewers who have not watched this award-winning show, The Dowager Countess, Violet Crawley, is a strong woman who represents the elitism and aloofness of the upper class.

In addition to her endurance, The Dowager Countess is quick-witted and stubborn. She is not afraid to say what other people are thinking, and if she has a problem with someone or something, she lets everyone know.

An older woman in a white Victorian-style outfit holds a parasol, standing outdoors with another woman in period attire.

As a result, The Dowager Countess quickly became the favorite character of many viewers, calling out people for their inconsistencies and eschewing social mores in favor of honesty. Needless to say, Maggie Smith is iconic.

But do not take our word for it. Watch some of the best quotes from Season 3 of Downton Abbey. It should surprise no one that this compilation features The Dowager Countess.