Irresistible Change is an apt title for the seventh episode of The Gilded
Age. It's a chapter that brilliantly illuminates the stark contrasts between the
old and new worlds colliding in New York City. The episode is a dazzling display
of opulence, social intrigue, and the inexorable march of progress, all wrapped
up in a package that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The episode opens with a jaw-dropping scene that sets the tone for the rest of the hour: George Russell, the quintessential embodiment of the new money elite, lights up a miniature train station with electricity. This simple act is met with astonishment by all present, a clear reflection of the public's fascination with this revolutionary technology. The scene also serves as a microcosm of the episode as a whole, showcasing the dramatic impact of innovation on society.
The episode's main event is the lighting of the New York Times building, a spectacle that has the entire city abuzz with excitement. The Russells, naturally, are at the center of this social event, with Bertha determined to make a grand entrance into the upper echelons of society. However, her plans hit a snag when she realizes she has only two carriages for the event and must choose between inviting her ambitious social-climbing husband and her naive niece, Marian. The decision highlights the cutthroat nature of New York society and the lengths people will go to maintain their social standing.
Meanwhile, the ongoing feud between the van Rhijns and the Russells continues to simmer. Agnes van Rhijn, ever the arbiter of social propriety, is appalled by the idea of attending an event that will undoubtedly be filled with "ruffians and thieves." Her disdain for the new money crowd is palpable, but her own family is increasingly drawn to the allure of the Russells' wealth and power.
Marian, caught between the two worlds, is a sympathetic character whose naivety often leads her into awkward situations. Her attempt to intervene in Miss Turner's employment situation backfires spectacularly, demonstrating the harsh realities of social climbing. Miss Turner, a character who has always been a source of tension, is unceremoniously fired by Bertha, adding another layer of complexity to the already intricate web of relationships.
The episode also delves deeper into the characters of George and Bertha Russell. While George seems to be growing weary of his wife's relentless pursuit of social acceptance, Bertha remains steadfast in her determination to conquer the upper crust. Their relationship is a complex one, filled with both love and frustration. Their son, Larry, emerges as a potential source of conflict, as he expresses his desire to pursue a career in architecture rather than follow in his father's footsteps.
The episode concludes with the spectacular lighting of the New York Times building, a moment of collective awe and wonder. As the city is bathed in electric light, Ward McAllister muses on the implications of this technological advancement, questioning whether humanity is on the right path. Bertha's response, that we must go where history takes us, is a powerful statement about the inevitability of change.
Overall, Irresistible Change is a captivating episode that successfully blends historical drama with social commentary. The characters are complex and engaging, and the plot is filled with twists and turns. The episode's exploration of the tension between old and new money is particularly compelling, and it leaves viewers eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this epic saga.