BEWARE OF SPOILERS: This article reveals key plot points from Season 3, Episode 2 of The Gilded Age.
The latest installment from Season 3 of The Gilded Age, titled “What the Papers Say,” continues to explore traditional societal themes such as arranged marriages after broaching the topic of divorce in the season opener.
Viewers of last week’s premiere may recall Taissa Farmiga’s character, Gladys Russell, making a nocturnal escape from her home, a bold act against her mother Bertha’s plans to possibly reengage with The Duke of Buckingham. She finds refuge at the residence of her new love interest, Billy Carlton (played by Matt Walker) and his mother Joan (Victoria Clark).
“Marriage is a gamble for every generation. In today’s age, we have more interactions with our partners before marriage – living together, sleeping together – yet, the true essence of the person unfolds only after marriage,” stated Julian Fellowes, the series creator, in an interview with Deadline. “Despite advancements, no generation can eliminate the uncertainties of marriage,” he added.
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This season, Bertha is determined to secure an affluent and influential husband for Gladys, dismissing the notion of her daughter’s affection for Billy, whom she met secretly at the opera with the help of Mrs. Fish and Gladys’ brother, Larry Russell (Harry Richardson).
Upon returning from Morenci, Arizona, where he was managing railroad affairs, Mr. George Russell (Morgan Spector) is thrust into a tense debate over Gladys’ autonomy in choosing a spouse. Despite his earlier promise that she could marry for love, the situation now presents complex challenges.
Long-time followers of the show might remember Gladys’ past romantic connection with Archie Baldwin (Tom Blyth), a relationship that was sabotaged by her father through a manipulative job offer.
“Arranged marriages were quite typical during this era. Even today, many cultures practice arranged marriages, and they can lead to genuinely happy and enduring relationships,” Morgan Spector shared with Deadline.
Even after Billy seeks Mr. Russell’s approval at a benefit event and hesitates, George tells Bertha that the young man didn’t have the opportunity to make his case. Nevertheless, Bertha remains firm on her vision of a prestigious and empowering future for Gladys.
Fellowes remarked, “Many societies still practice arranged marriages, and it’s unwise to feel superior about our customs. Each approach has its merits and demerits. Life is unpredictable, and marriage is part of that unpredictability.”
As the episode concludes, Billy decides to end their relationship, leaving Gladys distraught. With the Duke of Buckingham’s attorney arriving by the episode’s end, it remains uncertain which path Gladys will choose, influenced by her mother’s ambitions. As her father noted, the unfolding events are as unexpected to him as they are to her.
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