Ep 9. Peggy Sue Got Work

In Married...with Children season 1 episode 9, titled "Peggy Sue Got Work", Peggy Bundy, the matriarch of the Bundy family, decides to find a job to ease the financial burden on her husband Al, who works as a salesman at a women's shoe store. Peggy had been a stay-at-home mom for years, but the constant money troubles have forced her to reconsider her priorities.

After several unsuccessful attempts at finding a job that fits her qualifications, Peggy finally lands a job as a cosmetics saleswoman at a department store. She is thrilled with her new job and starts spending her days selling products to customers. However, her happiness is short-lived as Al starts feeling neglected, and the children start behaving badly in her absence.

As Peggy starts making more money, she becomes confident in her ability to contribute to the household finances. She picks up more hours at work, and her job begins to consume her life. Her newfound independence and sense of purpose start to clash with her traditional role as a housewife, causing tension in the Bundy household.

Meanwhile, Al's jealousy of Peggy's success grows, and he starts feeling threatened by her financial independence. He becomes increasingly resentful and starts spending more time away from home, visiting strip clubs and hanging out with his friends to escape his insecurities.

The growing division between Peggy and Al culminates in a heated argument, with both parties expressing their frustrations and fears. Peggy tries to explain that her job is important to her, and she wants to be financially independent, but Al fails to see her point of view. The episode ends with Peggy unsure of her future and Al struggling to come to terms with his insecurities.

Overall, "Peggy Sue Got Work" deals with themes of gender roles, financial stability, and the challenges of balancing work and family life. The episode offers a glimpse into the complicated dynamics of a traditional family in the late '80s and early '90s, with a focus on the tension that arises when one partner steps outside their traditional role. The episode is both funny and poignant, offering a nuanced portrayal of the struggles that many families face.