Try century- I find myself wishing I was born in the 1500s.. god knows why; it was a hideous time to be alive unless you were very rich.As has been pointed out, its the romanticism of another era that appeals I think.
I loved both book and film (read the book first) Usually I HATE the film after loving the book, so this one surprised me. Its an ultimate tear-jerker for me (although I am one for tears) which, in my eyes, makes it a great film. I love being moved by stuff- I know.. strange.