In the tumultuous third episode of "Franklin," titled "Pride & Gout," the narrative unfolds against the backdrop of war and betrayal, with the opening scene set at Brandywine Creek, Pennsylvania, on September 11, 1777. Here, Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette (Théodore Pellerin), having heeded the call to fight for America's independence, suffers a grievous injury in battle. The episode begins with a visceral depiction of wartime medicine, as Lafayette bites down on wood to stifle his screams while a doctor tends to his leg, setting the tone for an episode filled with pain, loss, and political intrigue.
The episode then shifts to France, where French Foreign Minister Charles Gravier, Comte de Vergennes (Thibault de Montalembert), learns of Lafayette's death in a battle deemed fruitless. Vergennes' fury is palpable as he learns that Lafayette defied the king's orders to go to America, armed with a letter of recommendation from Benjamin Franklin (Michael Douglas). This sets off a chain of events that lead to Benjamin's reprimand by Monsieur Gerard (Xavier Brossard) for his role in Lafayette's departure. Benjamin, while mourning Lafayette's death, sees it as a rallying point for the alliance between France and America, a sentiment that underscores the complex interplay of personal grief and political strategy.
As the episode progresses, Vergennes grapples with the financial constraints that hinder France's ability to support America's cause. The Royal Treasurer's assertion that they cannot afford more debt or tax increases, coupled with the revelation that Vergennes stands alone in his support for America, highlights the internal divisions within the French court and the mounting pressures on the foreign minister.
Temple Franklin (Noah Jupe) and Lafayette's friends drown their sorrows in drink, reminiscing about Lafayette's dance with Marie Antoinette. The night takes a darker turn when Benjamin is woken by Chaumont (Olivier Claverie) to discover that Temple's horse has been found without him. After a frantic search, they find Temple, hungover and asleep in a barn, blaming himself for Lafayette's death. In his drunken state, Temple confronts Benjamin about his perceived conspiracies and schemes, leading to a heated exchange that lays bare the tensions between them and the complexities of their personal and political relationships.
The episode also explores the developing relationship between Benjamin and Anne Louise Brillon de Jouy (Ludivine Sagnier), as they find solace in each other's company. Anne, having witnessed her husband's infidelity, seeks companionship in Benjamin, and they bond over creating stories for strangers in a park. Benjamin's admission of his uncertainties and regrets, and Anne's reassurance of trust, add a layer of emotional depth to their connection.
Temple's journey through Paris with Jacques (Aïtor de Calvairac) introduces him to a side of the city that is both alluring and unsettling. From a crude drawing that mocks Benjamin to a visit to a brothel, Temple's experiences are a stark contrast to the high-stakes political maneuverings of his grandfather. However, the episode takes an unexpected turn when it is revealed that Lafayette is not only alive but has been promoted to general, a fact that Temple is eager to share with Benjamin.
Benjamin's efforts to rebuild his printing press and spread propaganda for the American cause are met with both progress and setbacks. The arrival of Jonathan Austin (Cavan Clarke) with news of America's victory at Saratoga reinvigorates Benjamin's efforts, leading to the printing of propaganda that declares Lafayette a hero. This victory is marred by the discovery of a traitor in their midst, as Beauchmarchais (Assaad Bouab) and Chaumont grapple with the fact that their plans are being leaked to the English. The suspicion falls on one of them or someone close to them, leading to a tense atmosphere of mistrust.
"Pride & Gout" concludes with a web of intrigue and uncertainty, as Benjamin and those around him navigate the treacherous waters of war, betrayal, and the quest for independence. The episode is a testament to the personal sacrifices and political machinations that underpin the struggle for liberty, leaving viewers with a sense of the fragility of alliances and the high cost of revolution.