The Gilded Age significantly intensified its narrative in the second episode of its third season, titled “What the Papers Say.” The focus shifted prominently to Gladys (Taissa Farmiga) and her mother Bertha (Carrie Coon), as Bertha’s ambitions for her daughter’s marriage to Hector, the Duke of Buckingham (Ben Lamb), became undeniably clear. There’s an evident disconnect, as Gladys and the Duke are still strangers, but Bertha is unwavering in her pursuit to elevate her family’s social status—a contrast to the aspirations of George (Morgan Spector), Gladys’s father, who had promised his daughter the freedom to marry for love.
This tension between George and Bertha sets the stage for conflicts throughout the season. As both are driven individuals, their differing visions for Gladys create a complex dynamic that complicates their familial relationships. Meanwhile, Gladys remains hopeful that her father’s influence will resolve the marital dilemma.
Further exploring the season’s themes of power and status, we see Aurora (Kelli O’Hara) grappling with the consequences of her husband’s infidelity and the societal repercussions of divorce for women in the 1880s. In a parallel storyline, Peggy (Denée Benton) faces challenges related to her race as her health declines, reflecting the ongoing discrimination of the era. However, she finds a glimmer of hope through her interactions with Dr. William Kirkland (Jordan Donica), a new character who may provide both medical assistance and a potential romance.
Moreover, the blossoming relationship between Marian (Louisa Jacobson) and Larry (Harry Richardson) demonstrates emerging romantic dynamics within the high-society setting, while the evolving power struggle between Agnes (Christine Baranski) and Ada (Cynthia Nixon) showcases a significant shift in family dynamics based on financial independence.
Creator Julian Fellowes and writer Sonja Warfield highlighted these intricate storylines, emphasizing the contrast between the American and European social landscapes. The series continues to delve into the historical context of its characters, illustrating not only personal but also societal struggles of the time.
As the season progresses, audiences can anticipate resolutions to these conflicts, along with character growth and the enduring pursuit of love and stability amidst chaos. The portrayal of these themes not only reflects historical realities but also resonates with contemporary discussions about gender, race, and class.
With future episodes streaming weekly, viewers will have the opportunity to witness how these complex relationships unfold against the backdrop of an era saturated with ambition and change.