Some of the best period dramas are foreign. One of the most powerful imo, is
La Reine Margot (Queen Margot) which boasts a powerhouse ensemble cast and as it is about the Massacre of St. Bartholomew has plenty of action, fighting, bloodshed and some sex and plotting mixed in. It really captures the feel of the times. As a bonus, it's probably Isabelle Adjani's sexiest role. I recommend it, one of my favourite films.
I understand period dramas seem a tame choice in this superhero drenched climate, but they're not all wet vehicles for Keira Knightley to look pretty (sorry Welchy).