Little Dorrit Season 1 Episode 101 Episode 1

Little Dorrit is a British historical drama television series based on the novel of the same name by Charles Dickens. The series has a total of 14 episodes and premiered on BBC One on October 26, 2008. The first episode of the show is titled "Episode 1".

The first episode sets the stage for the story to follow. The series is set in London during the 1820s, in the era of the Industrial Revolution. The opening credits play to the tune of a factory whistle, signaling the proliferation of factories during this time period. The episode begins with the arrival of a new inmate at Marshalsea Debtors Prison. The inmate is William Dorrit, a gentleman who has been imprisoned for failing to pay his debts. Dorrit is accompanied by his two daughters, Fanny and Amy (nicknamed Little Dorrit), who will now be forced to live with him in the prison.

As Dorrit is escorted to his cell, he is greeted by a parade of fellow prisoners, each requesting a favor or money from him. Dorrit is shown to be haughty and dismissive towards them, refusing to acknowledge their pleas. This is in stark contrast to his daughter Amy, who shows kindness and compassion towards the other inmates. Amy is immediately shown to be the heart of the show, a character whose empathy and generosity will play a central role in the story.

While in prison, Dorrit is visited by his brother Frederick, who has arrived with news that their long-lost rich aunt has died and left them a substantial inheritance. This news sets in motion a series of events that will change the lives of the Dorrit family forever. Despite being released from prison, Dorrit chooses to stay in Marshalsea for fear of losing his reputation if he were to move back to society as a debtor.

Meanwhile, the episode introduces a host of other characters, including Arthur Clennam, a businessman who has just returned from a 20-year stint in China. Clennam is shown to be a reserved, almost melancholic character, whose past in China is hinted to have left a deep emotional scar. He is visited by an old family friend, Flintwinch, who informs him of his father's ill health. Clennam sets out to take care of his father, and in the process discovers a long-held family secret that will also play a central role in the story.

The episode lays the groundwork for an intricate web of characters and relationships that will unfold over the course of the series. There is the Meagles family, who have a daughter named Maggie that Arthur develops a crush on. There is also a sinister Frenchman named Rigaud, who is introduced as a potential villain. Meanwhile, back in Marshalsea, the kind-hearted Amy continues to bond with the other inmates, including a man named John Chivery, whose love for Amy will be a recurring theme throughout the series.

Overall, the first episode of Little Dorrit sets the stage for a sprawling, intricate story that promises to explore themes of wealth, poverty, love, and redemption. The stellar performances, intricate plotlines, and stunning visuals make for a truly captivating viewing experience. Those looking for a rich historical drama filled with memorable characters and an engrossing story will not be disappointed.