Ep 3. Nob and Nobility

BlackAdder is a British sitcom that aired from 1983 to 1989. Set in different historical periods, each season follows the misadventures of the BlackAdder family, who are often conniving, scheming, and ruthless in their quest for power and wealth. Season 3 explores the Regency era in 18th century England, where the third BlackAdder, Edmund, is a butler to the foppish Prince George. In this episode, "Nob and Nobility," Edmund finds himself enlisted to rescue a French aristocrat from the revolutionary Terror in Paris.

The episode opens with Edmund complaining about his grueling work as Prince George's butler, which includes dressing the prince in extravagantly ridiculous outfits and fetching his "potato surprise" in the middle of the night. However, his complaints are cut short when Prince George announces that he has a mission for Edmund - to travel to Paris, infiltrate a revolutionary group, and rescue a French aristocrat named the Duc de Posh.

Edmund is initially hesitant, knowing that he's not cut out for dangerous missions and that Paris is a dangerous place during the Terror. However, Prince George persuades him with his usual nonsensical logic, insisting that the Duc de Posh is essential to their plan of marrying Prince George off to a French princess and thus securing their place in history.

Edmund travels to Paris in disguise, posing as the Scarlet Pimpernel - a famous hero who is known to be the sworn enemy of the revolutionaries. He makes contact with a group of French nobles who are also plotting to rescue the Duc de Posh, and together they hatch a plan to infiltrate the revolutionary stronghold where the Duc is being held.

The rest of the episode follows Edmund's misadventures as he navigates the dangerous streets of Paris, trying to evade the revolutionary guards and outwit the dastardly Citizen Robespierre. Along the way, he meets a host of eccentric French characters, including a pompous aristocrat named Lord Smedley and a flirtatious French maid named Emmanuelle.

As with all BlackAdder episodes, "Nob and Nobility" is full of witty one-liners, biting satire, and comedic twists and turns. The show's clever writing and talented cast - including Rowan Atkinson as Edmund and Miranda Richardson as the scheming Queenie - make it a classic of British comedy.

Overall, "Nob and Nobility" is a hilarious and engaging episode that combines historical satire with slapstick humor and clever wordplay. It's a must-watch for fans of BlackAdder and anyone who enjoys a good laugh.