There’s no stopping fiction being taken as fact

SIR – To think that showing a disclaimer (Letters, November 7) before episodes of The Crown would make viewers aware that what they will see is fiction is, at best, naive.

People at home and abroad (especially our cousins across the pond) will believe that there is a lot of truth in it. Think of how many people are convinced that Julius Caesar cried out: “Et tu, Brute?”, and tourists in London who want to see the “real” 221B Baker Street.

On a visit to Verona recently for a wedding, several in the group of outwardly sophisticated and intelligent guests went in search of Juliet’s balcony. Once it’s out there, what’s seen is believed. You can’t unring the bell.

Janice RS Sinclare

London N12

SIR – I avoid soaps, reality television, quiz shows and most light entertainment shows – preferring documentaries, music and history programmes – but I consider The Crown to be one of the finest television achievements ever.

I came to it reluctantly but was totally hooked from episode one. Friends to whom I’ve recommended it are equally enamoured. I can’t fault its acting or production values and find the current criticism baffling. Kevin Liles

Southampton