The article is about Lady Cora Crawley's mother in the TV show Downton Abbey, specifically in Season 3. The main idea is to summarize the content of the article into an English article within 400 words.

In Season 3 of Downton Abbey, Lady Cora Crawley's mother makes her appearance, bringing new dynamics and conflicts to the aristocratic household. The character, Martha Levinson, is portrayed by the talented actress Shirley MacLaine.

Martha's arrival at Downton Abbey is highly anticipated, as she is known for her outspoken and unconventional personality. She hails from America and represents the new world and its changing values. This clash between the traditional British aristocracy and the more progressive American way of life creates tension and drama throughout the season.

Martha's character is introduced at a time when the Crawley family is facing financial difficulties and seeking a wealthy suitor for their eldest daughter, Lady Mary. Martha's wealth and connections in the United States make her a potential candidate to help the Crawleys secure their estate. However, her strong-willed nature and lack of regard for British societal norms cause friction with the other characters.

The article highlights Martha's conflicts with the Dowager Countess, Violet Crawley, played by Maggie Smith. The two strong-willed women engage in witty and scathing banter, each determined to defend their respective cultures and traditions. Their scenes together provide comedic relief and showcase their exceptional acting skills.

Martha's presence also affects Lady Cora, her daughter, who finds herself torn between loyalty to her mother and her position within the British aristocracy. This conflict is explored throughout the season, as Lady Cora grapples with her identity and the consequences of Martha's actions.

Moreover, Martha's arrival at Downton Abbey brings a fresh perspective to the show's narrative. Her American values challenge the entrenched class system and question the established order of British society. As a wealthy and independent woman, Martha represents the changing roles of women during the early 20th century.

Overall, the article provides a brief summary of the character Martha Levinson in Season 3 of Downton Abbey. It highlights her impact on the Crawley family and how her presence leads to conflicts, particularly with the Dowager Countess. Martha's characterization adds depth to the storylines and explores the clash between American and British cultures during this period.