Ep 6. Do Ladies Do That?

In the sixth episode of Gentleman Jack season 1 titled "Do Ladies Do That?", Anne Lister continues to pursue her love interest, Ann Walker, despite the obstacles in their way. At the start of the episode, Anne receives a distressing letter from her uncle's lover, Eugénie, informing her that he has passed away. Anne is torn between her obligation to her family and her desire to be with Ann, who she seeks advice from.

Meanwhile, Ann Walker's mental health continues to deteriorate, and her sister Elizabeth is increasingly concerned about her well-being. When Ann reveals her feelings to Elizabeth, she tries to dissuade her from pursuing a relationship with a woman, but Ann remains firm in her desires. Later in the episode, Ann's condition worsens, leading her family to seek medical attention.

As Anne attempts to navigate the complexities of her relationship with Ann and her family obligations, she also finds herself at odds with her own community. She attends a meeting of the Halifax Literary and Philosophical Society, where she disagrees with the opinions of the other members on the topic of anatomy and the gender roles of women. The encounter leaves Anne feeling isolated and frustrated, but she continues to challenge the norms of her society.

Throughout the episode, Anne also deals with issues related to her coal mining business. She faces opposition from one of her competitors, Christopher Rawson, who tries to convince her father to sell his shares of the business. Anne's determination and business acumen are put to the test as she tries to outmaneuver Rawson and protect her interests.

In addition to the various conflicts Anne faces, the episode also examines the relationships between women in her community. Anne attends a gathering of local women and shares stories of her travels, which eventually leads to discussions about sex and desire among women. The scene is notable for its frank discussions of sexuality and female desire, highlighting the show's willingness to explore taboo topics in its depiction of early 19th-century England.

Overall, "Do Ladies Do That?" is a captivating episode that deepens the relationships between the characters and explores the challenges faced by women in the 1800s. With a combination of romance, drama, and social commentary, Gentleman Jack continues to be a compelling and thought-provoking series.