Ep 24. By the Seashore
- TV-MA
- March 29, 2005
- 23 min
The episode By the Seashore is the 24th and final episode of the first season of Gankutsuou: The Count Of Monte Cristo. The episode starts with Albert leaving Paris with his friends, only to realize that The Count's plot has been successful and he has lost everything. Meanwhile, The Count is seen on a boat, re-examining the events that led him to this point.
As he reflects on his past, it is revealed that The Count was once a young sailor named Edmond Dantès who was imprisoned for a crime he did not commit. While in prison, he befriends a fellow inmate, Abbé Faria, who tells him about a vast treasure hidden on a remote island. After years of imprisonment, Edmond is able to escape and find the hidden treasure. With his newfound wealth and knowledge, he adopts the identity of The Count and sets out for revenge on those who wronged him in the past.
Back in the present, The Count's plan is revealed to have been a success. He has managed to destroy the lives of those who betrayed him, but he is left feeling empty and unsatisfied. Albert and his friends, who were caught up in The Count's plot, realize what has happened and try to confront The Count.
As The Count's boat approaches the shore, he meets a mysterious woman who reminds him of his past and helps him come to terms with his actions. He realizes that revenge has not brought him the happiness he sought and decides to put an end to his plot once and for all.
In the final scene, The Count reflects on his journey and the people he has hurt along the way. He decides to continue his life as a new person, far away from his old identity. The episode ends on a hopeful note as the characters are given a chance to move on and start anew.
Overall, By the Seashore is a powerful and emotional finale to the first season of Gankutsuou: The Count Of Monte Cristo. It ties together all the plot threads and character arcs in a satisfying way, while also delivering a powerful message about the dangers of revenge and the importance of finding one's own path in life.
