Ep 19. Some 38th Parallels

Some 38th Parallels is the nineteenth episode of season 4 of the popular TV series M*A*S*H. The show is set during the Korean War, centered around the doctors and nurses stationed at the Mobile Army Surgical Hospital (MASH).

In this episode, the atmosphere is tense as the military is on high alert due to the presence of a North Korean spy in the area. The spy, who is believed to be dressed in civilian clothing, has been spotted near the camp multiple times, causing paranoia among the MASH staff.

Hawkeye (played by Alan Alda) and Trapper (played by Wayne Rogers), two of the main doctors in the MASH unit, are determined to catch the spy. They set up a trap to catch the spy, using Margaret (played by Loretta Swit) as bait. Margaret is initially hesitant but eventually agrees to help out as she is confident in her ability to handle the situation.

As the plan unfolds, tensions rise and emotions run high. The doctors are forced to confront their own prejudices as they deal with the possibility of a North Korean spy being amongst them. Meanwhile, Radar (played by Gary Burghoff) struggles with his own emotions as he becomes increasingly homesick and misses his family back home.

Amidst all the chaos, the episode also explores the personal relationships between the MASH staff. Hawkeye and Trapper's friendship is tested as they butt heads over how to handle the situation with the spy. Meanwhile, Margaret and Frank's (played by Larry Linville) relationship is also put under the microscope as they are forced to work together closely in order to catch the spy.

Some 38th Parallels is a thought-provoking episode that explores the complexities of war and the toll it takes on the individuals involved. The tension and suspense in the episode keep the viewers on edge, while the personal conflicts between the characters make for a compelling watch. Ultimately, the episode's message is one of unity and camaraderie in the face of adversity.