Ep 5. The Invisible Woman

In Six Feet Under season 2 episode 5 titled "The Invisible Woman", Ruth (Frances Conroy) experiences a mid-life crisis and comes to the realization that she has no real identity outside of being a wife and mother. Feeling unfulfilled and invisible, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery that leads her to enroll in a pottery class, where she meets a charismatic young artist named Bettina (Kathy Bates).

Bettina serves as a mentor and muse for Ruth, encouraging her to tap into her creativity and explore her true passions. However, as Ruth becomes more immersed in the world of pottery and the bohemian community surrounding it, she finds herself pulled further away from her family and their traditional values.

Meanwhile, David (Michael C. Hall) struggles to come to terms with his sexuality as he begins dating a man named Keith (Mathew St. Patrick). He grapples with the fear of rejection from his conservative family and worries about how his public image as a funeral director will be affected.

Nate (Peter Krause) and Brenda (Rachel Griffiths) continue to navigate the ups and downs of their relationship, with Brenda grappling with her feelings of suffocation when it comes to Nate's desire for monogamy.

The Fisher family also deals with a death that forces them to confront their own issues and relationships with each other. As they continue to struggle with loss and their own personal demons, they must find a way to come together and support each other through the pain.

"The Invisible Woman" is a poignant and introspective episode that explores themes of identity, creativity, sexuality, and grief. It provides a deeper glimpse into the inner workings of each character and their struggles to find meaning and purpose in their lives. With its complex and nuanced storytelling, Six Feet Under continues to be a masterful exploration of the human condition.