Ep 8. Mirror, Mirror

In the eighth episode of the second season of Masters of Sex, entitled Mirror, Mirror, the focus shifts to the Institute for Sexual Research staff as they navigate their personal and professional relationships.

Dr. William Masters (Michael Sheen) is facing the possibility of losing his funding for the institute, which puts him at odds with his much younger wife and former assistant, Virginia Johnson (Lizzy Caplan). Meanwhile, Virginia is grappling with her own insecurities and doubts concerning their work, as well as her role in the organization.

Their colleague, Dr. Austin Langham (Teddy Sears), is also feeling insecure about his status in the institution and his relationship with his girlfriend, Libby (Caitlin FitzGerald). Libby, in turn, is struggling to come to terms with the fact that her husband, a closeted gay man, has returned from the war. She begins to seek solace in her friendship with Virginia, which further complicates matters.

As the episode progresses, the dynamic between the three main characters shifts and evolves. Masters and Virginia argue about the direction of the institute, while Austin begins to question Virginia's motives and her relationship with Masters. Libby looks for answers in all the wrong places, which leaves her vulnerable and alone.

The episode culminates in a tense confrontation between Masters and Virginia, which forces them to confront their deepest fears and doubts. As they stare into the mirror, the image staring back at them is not one they recognize. They realize that they have lost sight of their shared goals and their connection to one another, and they must find a way to regain their trust and integrity.

Overall, this episode of Masters of Sex delves deeper into the characters' emotional and psychological complexities, as they struggle to navigate their personal relationships and professional ambitions. It is a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the human psyche, and it highlights the show's ability to create compelling and nuanced characters that viewers can relate to and empathize with.