Ep 11. Groped by an Angel

Groped by an Angel | Daria Season 4 Episode 11

In the eleventh episode of Season 4 of the beloved animated series "Daria," titled "Groped by an Angel," our sarcastic and insightful protagonist finds herself embroiled in a controversy that challenges her moral compass and forces her to confront the complexities of faith.

The episode delves into the lives of the Lawndale High students as they prepare to put on a school play with an unconventional theme: a modern adaptation of ancient religious texts. Daria Morgendorffer, a cynic by nature, isn't particularly fond of the idea, but as always, she finds herself caught up in the whirlwind of high school drama.

The episode begins with Daria's best friend, Jane Lane, excitedly auditioning for the lead role in the school play while Daria observes from the sidelines, skeptical as ever. To Daria, religion has always been an enigma, something she views as a crutch for those seeking false comfort. However, when Jane successfully lands the coveted lead role, Daria reluctantly agrees to support her friend and becomes more involved in the production than she initially intended.

As rehearsals begin, Daria finds herself grappling with her own beliefs as she observes the cast dealing with their personal connections to religion. She witnesses characters who place their faith in religious dogma, as well as individuals who question their beliefs, much like herself. Daria becomes the silent observer, contemplating the absurdity she perceives in both blind faith and fervent skepticism.

Simultaneously, the play's director, Ms. Defoe, struggles to strike a balance between delivering an impactful theatrical performance and respecting the sensitive nature of religious texts. As conflict arises amongst the cast members, Daria finds herself at odds with the moral and ethical decisions being made. She begins to question her role in supporting a production she views as either pandering or disrespectful.

Daria's internal conflict reaches its peak when a controversial scene in the play requires Jane to interact intimately with a male co-star. The scene is intended to symbolize a divine connection, but it becomes uncomfortably suggestive, causing discomfort not only for Jane but for the entire cast. Daria, uncomfortable with the direction the play is taking and standing up for her friend, decides to voice her concerns.

In a surprising twist, Daria finds an unlikely ally in the form of Mr. DeMartino, the passionate and often unhinged history teacher at Lawndale High. Mr. DeMartino shares Daria's skepticism towards organized religion but does not want his personal bias to undermine the creative expression of those involved in the play.

As the conflict escalates, Daria, Jane, and Mr. DeMartino work together behind the scenes to find a compromise that both respects the artistic vision and aligns with their personal beliefs. This collaboration allows Daria to confront her own biases and recognize the importance of open dialogue and empathy.

In true "Daria" fashion, the episode provides witty social commentary and thought-provoking insights on the intersection between faith, art, and personal values. While no definitive answers are provided, "Groped by an Angel" encourages viewers to reflect on their own relationships with religion and to challenge the norms and expectations imposed upon them.

As the episode concludes, the play is performed, and the audience's reactions range from discomfort to profound resonance. Daria, true to her nature, maintains her skepticism but also gains a newfound appreciation for the complexities and personal significance that faith holds for different people.

"Groped by an Angel" stands out as one of the most thematically rich episodes of "Daria," tackling sensitive subject matter with its signature blend of sarcasm and introspection. It exemplifies the show's ability to tackle challenging topics while remaining relatable and engaging, making it a must-watch installment in the series.