We've watched all six episodes so far in HD -- it is definitely HD and actually very good HD at that. The HD program is only available On Demand here in Burlington.
Consider it a final completion of our journey away from where they only offerings were like the Fantasyland of Father Knows Best, to a place where we can also enjoy television programs that are actually realistic, or even super-realistic. The unnecessary boundaries are removed.
Indeed, although I wouldn't call either Claudette or Peggy a "moral compass". They are sympathetic characters. However, so is Vick, in his own way. Claudette isn't really essential to the story, because of that.
I think the point is that the men aren't being over-the-top. A lot of things have changed. Remember, 150 years ago plantation owners were whipping slaves. Mad Men is set almost 50 years ago. A lot has really changed since then.