In the compelling fifth episode of Franklin, titled "The Natural State of Man," we find ourselves on July 4, 1778, amidst the throes of the American Revolution. The episode opens with John Adams (Eddie Marsan), now staying at Chaumont's (Olivier Claverie) home with Benjamin Franklin (Michael Douglas), practicing his French phrases and documenting his thoughts in his diary. Adams is critical of Franklin's methods and the two engage in a tense breakfast exchange, highlighting their personal and ideological differences.
Adams is particularly critical of Franklin's accounts, expenses, and correspondence, questioning his contribution to the American cause through the alliance with France. Adams is keen to meet with Vergennes (Thibault de Montalembert) to ensure France honors its obligations to the American cause. His frustration grows as he observes the French idolization of Franklin at a party, underscoring the cultural and political tensions between the two nations.
Vergennes is upset by the meager inventory provided by the American congress, which is a tenth of France's annual budget. Franklin manages to keep the peace between Vergennes and Adams, but Adams insists on more substantial support from France. In a clever move, Franklin pretends to be in poor health, convincing Vergennes to provide additional funds, much to Adams' dismay.
The episode also delves into the personal lives of the characters, with Anne (Ludivine Sagnier) expressing her displeasure to Brillon (Marc Duret) about the arranged marriage between Temple (Noah Jupe) and Cunegonde (Lily Dupont). Anne desires more agency for her daughter, reflecting the broader themes of freedom and autonomy that resonate throughout the series.
Benjamin informs Temple of the negotiated marriage, framing it as an alliance between France and America. Temple is initially disheartened, especially at the prospect of Benjamin leaving him behind. However, Benjamin assures him of his commitment to stay in France, which eventually wins Temple's agreement.
At Chaumont's Independence party, Adams shares his concerns about the marriage and Anne’s relationship with Benjamin with Edward Bancroft (Daniel Mays). Bancroft, seeking more money for his risks, is tasked by Paul Wentworth (Tom Hughes) to drive a wedge between Vergennes and the Americans, targeting Adams to agitate the French.
The return of Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de La Fayette (Théodore Pellerin), adds a new dynamic as he discusses a bold plan to attack British ports with Bancroft, Adams, and Benjamin. While Adams deems the plan impossible, Benjamin entertains the idea, especially when Temple expresses his desire to join the battle. Temple's decision to run away and join Gilbert, Segur (Arthur Orcier), and Noailles (Victor Lafrej) in their plan to sack England themselves, after Anne cancels the wedding, escalates the tension and highlights the younger generation's desire to take matters into their own hands.
The episode concludes with a sense of danger for Franklin, as Officer Lenoir (Olivier Rabourdin) warns him of rumors suggesting he is unsafe in Paris. Bancroft informs Wentworth of Gilbert and Temple's plan, which Wentworth takes seriously, demanding Bancroft to ensure Adams gains power over Franklin. In a chilling finale, Wentworth mistakenly stabs a man to death, believing it to be Benjamin, in the heart of Paris.
"The Natural State of Man" is a richly woven narrative that explores the complexities of diplomacy, personal ambition, and the struggle for power during a pivotal moment in history. With its intricate plot and compelling character dynamics, this episode of Franklin captures the essence of a nation's fight for independence and the individuals who shaped its course.